%20to%20145%C2%B0%20(medium-rare%20is%20now%20considered%20safe)%20with%20a%20three-minute%20stand%20time%20after%20removing%20from%20heat.%20The%20meat%20will%20be%20moist%20and%20tender%2C%20and%20leaner%20cuts%20will%20be%20more%20succulent.%20(The%20minimum%20temperature%20for%20ground%20pork%20remains%20160%C2%B0.)){kind=link}
Don't fear slightly pink pork. New guidelines from the USDA have decreased the minimum internal temperature from 160° (for medium) to 145° (medium-rare is now considered safe) with a three-minute stand time after removing from heat. The meat will be moist and tender, and leaner cuts will be more succulent. (The minimum temperature for ground pork remains 160°.)
How to Make It
Preheat oven to 350°. Stir together first 5 ingredients and 1 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Rub mixture over pork chops, and let stand at room temperature 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add ginger and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, 1 to 2 minutes or until softened. Stir in preserves, agave nectar, lemon juice, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, stirring occasionally, 3 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork chops, and cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until browned. Pour apricot mixture over pork chops. Bake 18 to 20 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into thickest portion registers 145° (medium-rare) or until desired degree of doneness. Remove from heat, and let stand 3 minutes. Serve with pan juices.
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