Apple-Cider Bourbon Glazed Pork Bites

Instructions:

1. Season the pork cubes with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until browned.
3. Remove the pork and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the apple cider, bourbon, brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, Dijon, and garlic powder.
5. Stir and simmer for 5–7 minutes, until the glaze begins to reduce and thicken.
6. Return the pork to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the glaze.
7. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes until the pork is cooked through and the glaze becomes glossy and sticky.
8. Serve warm with toothpicks or spoon over mashed potatoes.

Variations

• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang.
• Use maple syrup in place of honey for a richer fall flavor.
• Add sautéed apples or onions to the skillet for extra texture.
• Substitute chicken thighs for pork for a lighter variation.

Tips

• Reduce the glaze until it coats the back of a spoon for the perfect sticky finish.
• Do not overcrowd the skillet—this ensures a proper sear on the pork.
• If the glaze thickens too much, add a splash of cider to loosen it.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the full caramelized shine and tenderness.