Sweet Zucchini and Pork Chops

About

This Keto pork recipe is loaded with both sweet and savory flavors and makes a delicious low carb dinner option. The recipe is prepared with pork chops, tender zucchini, sweet red onion, low carb maple-flavored syrup, chicken stock, ground cinnamon, and a touch of garlic powder. The vegetables are gently pan-fried until tender before browning the pork chops until lightly golden. The chops and veggies are then simmered in the stock and syrup until tender, and the sauce is reduced and caramelized.

Can I Use a Different Sweetener?

We have added a splash of Keto-friendly maple-flavored syrup to this recipe. The syrup perfectly complements the cinnamon seasoned pork as well as the low carb veggies and creates a natural caramelization. You can substitute the syrup if desired with an alternative low carb liquid or powdered sweetener, but you may not get quite the same sticky sauce consistency. Avoid the use of granulated sweeteners as these do not dissolve as well and will leave a grainy texture in the dish. Please be sure to adjust your macros accordingly to account for any changes made to the original recipe.

Serving Suggestions

These sweet and sticky pork chops are an excellent Keto dinner option and pair well with a variety of sides. The pork could be served on a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside a buttery cauliflower mash. For a lighter side option, the recipe would pair well with a simple low carb side salad or some buttered green veggies.

Ingredients

2 chop pork chops
1 medium zucchini
½ medium – 2 1/2" diameter red onion
1 ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon maple flavored syrup
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt, sea salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Roughly dice the zucchini into 1 inch chunks. Thinly slice the onion. Heat the oil in a skillet over a low/ medium heat. Add the zucchini and onion. Sweat for 5-6 minutes until just tender and fragrant. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Season the pork chops with cinnamon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides. Add a little more oil to the skillet if required and set over medium/high heat. Add the pork chops and cook until browned all over, making sure to also brown the fat.
Return the zucchini and onion to the skillet. Add the maple-flavored syrup and stock. Mix well. Bring up to a simmer and cook through for 20 minutes uncovered until the liquid is reduced right down and the pork and vegetables are caramelized. Turn the pork during cooking. Serve hot with your preferred Keto sides.