What Herbs And Spices Go with Pork and Apple? (12 Options)

When it comes to pork, there are a lot of different flavors that go well with it.

But one flavor combination that always stands out to me is pork with apple.

The sweetness of the apple paired with the savory pork is just unbeatable.

So if you’re looking for what herbs and spices go with pork and apple, then you’ve come to the right place.

I’m sharing 12 of my favorite herbs and spices to use when cooking pork and apple dishes.

Trust me, these flavors will take your dish to the next level!

What Herbs And Spices Go with Pork and Apple?

There are many herbs and spices that go well with pork and apple. Some of these include sage, thyme, oregano, rosemary, cloves, and nutmeg. For a unique flavor, you can also add cinnamon or allspice.

Still looking for options?

No worries!

Here are 12 herbs and spices that go well with pork and apple:

1. Cinnamon

Warm, woody, and a bit floral, cinnamon is a perfect match for pork.

When used sparingly, it can enhance the natural sweetness of both lean and fatty pork cuts.

Cinnamon is also a great complement to apples, which makes it an ideal seasoning for pork.

2. Nutmeg

Nutmeg is a warm spice with somewhat nutty, sweet, woody flavors.

It is a perfect pairing with pork, as it can help enhance the natural sweetness of the meat.

Additionally, the herb can also be used to balance out savory and fatty flavors.

When using nutmeg with pork, try to use it sparingly at first.

This spice can be quite potent, so you don’t want to overdo it and end up with a dish that is too sweet or overwhelming.

A little goes a long way with nutmeg!

3. Allspice

The flavor profile of allspice is multidimensional, featuring notes of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and pepper.

That’s why it’s an excellent complement to pork dishes that also include apples.

The sweetness of the fruit is balanced by the savory spices in allspice, making for a well-rounded and flavor-packed dish.

So next time you’re looking for a new way to season your pork and apple recipe, give allspice a try.

You might just find that it’s your new favorite spice!

4. Cloves

This intensely aromatic spice has a subtly sweet flavor with a hint of floral and citrus notes.

Cloves go exceptionally well with pork, as the sweetness of the spice helps to offset the richness of the meat.

When paired with apples, cloves help to bring out the fruit’s natural sweetness.

5. Ginger

The taste of fresh ginger is slightly peppery and sweet, making it a perfect partner for pork dishes like pork and apple.

When used in cooking, ginger adds a warm, fragrant flavor to the dish.

It is also a great way to add some extra flavor to your pork and apple dish without overwhelming the natural flavors of the ingredients.

6. Rosemary

This woodsy herb has notes of citrus, lavender, pine, and pepper, which makes it a versatile ingredient that can be used in sweet and savory dishes.

When it comes to pork and apple, rosemary is the perfect herb to bring out the natural sweetness of the fruit while also complementing the savory flavors of the meat.

So, whether you’re roasting or grilling your pork and apples, don’t forget to throw in a few sprigs of rosemary!

7. Sage

Sage has a pronounced herbal taste that is earthy, slightly peppery, and minty with a hint of lemon.

This makes it the perfect seasoning for pork, which can be quite bland on its own.

And when paired with apples, sage brings out the sweetness and juiciness of the fruit while still letting the pork shine through.

So if you’re looking to add a little something extra to your next pork and apple dish, try sage!

8. Thyme

Earthy and minty, thyme is a herb that goes really well with pork and apple.

The sweetness of the apple offsets the gamey taste of pork, while thyme complements both flavors without overwhelming them.

Just a few sprigs of thyme is all you need to make this dish shine.

Add it towards the end of cooking so it doesn’t lose its flavor and aroma.

9. Black Pepper

Black pepper carries a complex flavor profile of piney, citrusy notes that can enhance the sweetness of apples while also toning down the richness of pork.

It’s a versatile spice that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, so it’s perfect for pork and apple.

Just a pinch or two will do the trick!

10. Fennel seeds

Fennel seeds carry a warm and sweet aroma, with a slight anise-like flavor.

This makes it a perfect ingredient to enhance the sweetness of apples, while still complementing the savoriness of pork.

You can use fennel seeds in a rub for your pork chops, or even add them to your apple sauce.

Either way, you’re sure to enjoy the unique flavor profile that fennel seeds bring to this classic dish.

11. Anise seeds

Anise is known for its natural sweetness and licorice taste, which is why it goes well with pork.

When used in moderation, anise seeds can actually enhance the sweetness of apples while complimenting the savory taste of pork.

This herb can be used in a number of ways, such as:

• Adding it to the marinade
• Sprinkling it on top of the dish
• Including it in the spice rub

12. Mustard seeds

Whole mustard seeds have a mild aromatic nutty flavor.

They work really well in dishes where you want a subtle flavor.

That’s why they are often used as a pickling spice.

When mustard seeds are cooked, they pop and release their flavor.

To use them in pork and apple dishes, cook the mustard seeds first until they pop.

Then, add your pork and apples to the pan.

The pork will be infused with the mustard flavor and it will be delicious!