Danish Fried Pork with Apples and Onions (Stegt Svinekød med Æbler og Løg)
A comforting and flavorful Danish dish featuring pan-fried pork, sweet caramelized apples, and tender sautéed onions, often served with boiled potatoes. It highlights the Danish love for combining savory pork with sweet fruit.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Pork loin or tenderloin(cut into 1-inch thick slices)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 large Onions(thinly sliced)
- 2 large Apples(peeled, cored, and sliced (e.g., Ingrid Marie or Elstar))
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the pork slices dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
💡 Tip: Drying the pork ensures a better sear. - 2
Heat butter and vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- 3
Sear the pork slices for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove pork from the skillet and set aside.
💡 Tip: Adjust heat to prevent burning. - 4
Add the sliced onions to the same skillet. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.
💡 Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. - 5
Add the sliced apples and brown sugar to the skillet with the onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
💡 Tip: Use a firm apple variety that holds its shape. - 6
Return the seared pork to the skillet and toss gently with the apples and onions to warm through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- 7
Serve the fried pork with apples and onions immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. This dish is traditionally served with boiled potatoes.
💡 Tip: A dollop of lingonberry jam can be a nice accompaniment.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Choose a good quality pork cut for best flavor and tenderness.
- ✓Don't rush the caramelization of the onions and apples; low and slow is key for sweetness.
- ✓Ensure the skillet is hot enough for a good sear on the pork.
🔄 Variations
- Add a splash of apple cider or white wine to the pan with the apples and onions to deglaze and add extra flavor.
- Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg with the apples for a hint of spice.
- Serve with a side of Danish remoulade sauce.