Danish Apple Pork
Æbleflæsk
Æbleflæsk, translating to 'apple pork', is a traditional Danish dish that combines the savory crispness of pan-fried pork belly (or bacon) with the tender sweetness of cooked apples and onions. Often served on rye bread, it's a comforting and nostalgic dish, particularly popular during autumn and winter, and for Christmas lunches.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Streaky pork belly or thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 medium Onion, thinly sliced
- 500 g Apples (preferably slightly tart), cored and diced
- 2 tbsp Sugar
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 4 slices Rye bread, for serving
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place the diced pork belly or bacon in a cold frying pan over medium heat. Cook slowly until golden brown and crisp. Remove the pork from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
💡 Tip: Starting with a cold pan allows the fat to render slowly, resulting in crispier pork. - 2
Pour off most of the rendered fat, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pan. Add the thinly sliced onion to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
💡 Tip: Don't discard all the flavorful pork fat; it's essential for cooking the apples and onions. - 3
Add the diced apples to the pan with the onions. Sprinkle with sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
💡 Tip: Using a mix of apple varieties can add complexity to the flavor. - 4
Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. Avoid overcooking them into applesauce.
💡 Tip: A lid traps steam, helping the apples cook evenly without drying out. - 5
Return the cooked pork belly or bacon to the pan. Stir gently to combine with the apples and onions. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. - 6
Serve the Æbleflæsk warm, typically on slices of Danish rye bread.
💡 Tip: This dish is also excellent as a side for breakfast or brunch.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If your apples are very sweet, you may want to reduce the amount of sugar.
- ✓For a richer flavor, some recipes suggest using pork belly instead of bacon.
- ✓Ensure the apples are not overcooked; they should retain some texture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture for a warmer spice note.
- Serve with a side of pickled beetroot for a traditional Danish accompaniment.
- Some variations include a small amount of butter added to the pan along with the pork fat.