Why You’ll Love this Pork Chops Recipe
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for yourself, you’ll love this pork chops recipe because it combines simplicity with rich flavors.
I appreciate how it transforms a few basic ingredients into something truly special. The crispy bacon adds depth, while the caramelized onions create a sweet contrast to the savory pork.
Plus, the ease of preparation means I can whip it up without spending hours in the kitchen. When it’s time to serve, the aroma fills my home, making everyone enthusiastic to dig in.
Trust me, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Ingredients of Pork Chops
When it comes to making a delicious pork chops dish, having the right ingredients is key. This recipe isn’t just about the pork; it’s a symphony of flavors brought together by a handful of simple, yet essential items. You’ll find that each ingredient plays a unique role in elevating the dish.
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to gather before diving into the cooking process.
Here’s the list of ingredients for the Pork Chops recipe:
- 4 slices good bacon or 4 slices ham, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon oil, plus extra for onions
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups homemade chicken stock or low sodium chicken broth
- 1 (50 g) packet meat gravy mix, preferably spicy and with pimentos
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4-6 bone-in rib pork loin chops, 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick
- Salt & fresh ground pepper
- 2 medium onions, halved and sliced thin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a moment. If you’re a bacon lover like me, you know that the crispy bits can elevate nearly any dish. You can totally use ham if that’s what you have on hand, but trust me, the bacon adds a richness that’s hard to beat.
And don’t skimp on the onions; they’ll caramelize beautifully and add such sweetness to the mix. The gravy mix? Oh, it’s a lifesaver—especially if you’re short on time or just want to keep the dishes to a minimum.
Plus, the right spices can really bring everything together. So, gather these goodies, and let’s get ready to cook up something that will make your taste buds dance.
How to Make Pork Chops
To make these mouthwatering Pork Chops, start by frying up 4 slices of good bacon in a medium pan over medium heat. You want them to be brown and slightly crisp—think of it as a delicious warm-up act for the main event.
Once they’re nice and crispy, remove the bacon and set it aside, but don’t you dare wash that pan. We need all those lovely bacon drippings. Lower the heat a bit, add 1 tablespoon of oil, and toss in 2 medium onions, halved and sliced thin. Cook those until they’re golden and sweet, then add 2 cloves of minced garlic, a bay leaf, and 1 teaspoon of minced fresh thyme leaves. The smell will be heavenly, and that’s when you know you’re onto something good.
Now, let’s get to the star of the dish: the pork chops. Grab 4-6 bone-in rib pork loin chops, each about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Pat them dry with some paper towels—this helps them get a nice crust when they hit the pan. Season them generously with salt and fresh ground pepper; don’t be shy, this is where you want flavor.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat until it’s shimmering—like a mini sun in your kitchen. Place the chops in the pan in a single layer and let them cook without moving them for about 2 minutes until they form a deep brown crust. Then, flip them over and let them sizzle for another 2 minutes. You’ll want to transfer these beauties to a pan with a tight lid once they’re done.
In that same pan, layer the chops at the bottom, and then cover them with the delicious onions you sautéed earlier. Mix together a packet of spicy meat gravy mix (50 g, preferably with pimentos) with 1 3/4 cups of homemade chicken stock or low sodium chicken broth, and sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to thicken it up a bit.
Pour this savory mixture over the onions and pork chops, and sprinkle the reserved bacon on top. Now, cover it all with the lid and let it cook on medium heat for about 20 minutes. The magic happens here as the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens.
After 20 minutes, lift the lid and let it reduce until it reaches that perfect gravy-like consistency. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for this little adventure in the kitchen.
Pork Chops Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your pork chops, there are plenty of delicious substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For a healthier twist, try using turkey chops or chicken thighs instead. If you’re in the mood for something different, consider a spicy rub with smoked paprika or a sweet glaze made from honey and soy sauce.
You can also swap out the cooking fat; olive oil or butter adds unique flavors. For extra texture, experiment with a crunchy topping like crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs.
Each variation can transform your dish into a whole new experience! Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Pork Chops
Although pork chops are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level.
I love serving mine with creamy mashed potatoes; they soak up the savory juices beautifully. Roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, add color and a nice crunch.
A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the chops perfectly. If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, mac and cheese is always a hit at my table.
Trust me, these sides will take your pork chop dinner from good to unforgettable!
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing pork chops, remember that a few simple tips can enhance your dish considerably.
First, don’t skip the drying step; it helps achieve that perfect sear. Season generously with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
I also recommend letting the chops rest after cooking; this keeps them juicy.
If you want a twist, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a sprinkle of brown sugar to the sauce for a sweet tang.
Finally, always use a meat thermometer; pork is perfectly cooked at 145°F.
Trust me, these little tweaks make a world of difference! Enjoy your meal!