Show your friends that you can do more in the kitchen than microwave your meals. Even a novice cook can handle this impressive recipe.

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

4 (1-inch) boneless, center-cut pork chops, trimmed salt and pepper

3 tablespoons cider vinegar

2 tablespoons sugar

2/3 cup white wine

2/3 cup chicken stock

3 firm, ripe pears, peeled, cored, and cut lengthwise into eighths

1 piece fresh ginger (2 inches long), peeled and cut into julienne strips

2 teaspoons cornstarch