Cerdo con Frutas (Pork Chops with Fruit)

This satisfying Venezuelan-style dish is fragrant with tropical spices and is easy to fix for company or your family meal. Complete this meal with fluffy, long grain rice, fresh avocado slices and some hot crusty bread.

Recipe Ingredients:

6 (1 1/2-inch-thick) pork loin chops
2 teaspoons butter
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 cup dried apricots
3/4 cup golden raisins
1/2 cup slivered almonds
3 cups orange juice
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger root
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

Cooking Directions:

1. In a large heavy skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium-high heat and brown chops on both sides. Remove chops to a deep casserole with a lid.
2. Mix together all other ingredients and add to casserole. Cover and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 45 minutes, until pork is tender.
3. Serve chops the fruited pan juices, if desired.

Makes 6 servings.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/6 of recipe): Calories 477 calories Protein 39 grams Fat 20 grams Sodium 11 milligrams Cholesterol 108 milligrams.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of National Pork Board.