Pork Chops with Apricot Rice

Flavorful
Description

Savory pork chops served alongside or over rice flavored with sweet apricots. A delicious balance of sweet and savory, this dish is ideal for special dinners or weeknight meals.

Ingredients
  • 1 (15 ounce) can apricot halves, undrained
  • 6 (1/2-inch thick) pork chops
  • 3 tablespoons butter or margarine 1/4 cup chopped celery
  • 2 1/2 cups uncooked instant rice 3/4 cup hot water
  • 1/4 cup golden raisins
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 1/4 cup slivered almonds
Directions
  1. In a blender or food processor, puree the apricots until smooth; set aside. In a skillet over medium heat, brown pork chops in butter for 2-3 minute son each side; remove and keep warm. In the same skillet, saute celery until tender. Add rice, water, raisins, ginger, salt, pepper and apricot puree; bring to a boil. Remove from the heat; stir in almonds. Pour into an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish. Place the chops on top. Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until the pork is no longer pink and the rice is tender.