Pork Chops with Apple Butter Gravy

I just adore Autumn.  But, living in South Louisiana, I don't see much of it.  Every now and then we get a glimpse of beautiful Fall weather, like the last few days.  Low humidity, sunshine and cool nights, just glorious!  Most years we get two Summers and head right into Winter.  So, I enjoy these days as much as I can and "Fall It Up".  By that, I mean I sit outside more, add pumpkin to just about everything, take my sweaters out and gaze at them lovingly, and make Fall Food.  This recipe is a great example of Fall Food.

PORK CHOPS WITH APPLE BUTTER GRAVY

4 bone-in pork chops (the bone adds great flavor)
2 TBS canola oil
salt/pepper
ground thyme
2 TBS soy sauce (I like low sodium variety)
2 TBS apple butter
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup water

Season the pork chops with salt, pepper and ground thyme on both sides.  Let them sit out on the counter for about 15 minutes (by taking the chill off the meat, it will cook more evenly and be more tender).  Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Add canola oil.  Brown the pork chops on each side (about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness).  Remove to a plate and set aside.  With the skillet still on medium-high heat, add the water and scrape the bottom of the pan to get up the bits of meat stuck to the bottom (flavor!).  Add soy sauce and apple butter.  Let this simmer (lower the heat a bit) for a few minutes.  Then, add the chicken broth and salt and pepper to taste (be careful because the soy and broth can be salty).  Return the pork chops to the skillet and let them simmer in the gravy for 10 minutes (flip them over halfway through).

That's it!  Super easy and so delicious.  This dish definitely tastes like Fall!  The pork goes so well with the sweet and spice of the apple butter.  Fall on a plate!