Introduction:
Prepare yourself to indulge in the deliciousness of Smothered Pork Chops with this traditional Southern-inspired recipe. Tender pork chops are coated in a flavorful seasoned flour mixture, fried to a perfect golden hue, and then enveloped in a rich and creamy gravy. Ideal for a comforting family dinner, these smothered pork chops are bound to become a beloved staple in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp red pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 thin pork chops
- 2 tbsp bacon fat
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups buttermilk
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a pie plate, thoroughly mix together flour, onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper, salt, and black pepper to ensure an even blend.
- Coat each pork chop evenly in the flour mixture, ensuring to shake off any excess.
- In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, melt bacon fat and olive oil together until the mixture is hot.
- Carefully place the coated pork chops in the skillet, frying them for approximately 5 minutes on each side or until they achieve a golden brown color. Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, whisk together ½ cup of the flour mixture with buttermilk until thoroughly combined. Continuously stir the mixture into the hot fat, ensuring no lumps form.
- Allow the gravy to come to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir frequently until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet, ensuring that they become fully submerged in the gravy. Allow them to simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until they cook through completely.
- Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 380 kcal per serving
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Omnivore
- Method: Pan-frying, Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern
- Category: Main Dish
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop with gravy
- Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Resources
Conclusion:
This recipe delivers a delightful combination of seasoned pork and creamy gravy, making it an ideal choice for satisfying comfort food cravings. With straightforward instructions and basic ingredients, it’s perfect for any meal occasion.
FAQs:
- Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
- Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
- What can I substitute for bacon fat if I don’t have any?
- Additional olive oil or butter can be substituted for bacon fat in this recipe.
- Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
- Absolutely! The gravy can be prepared in advance and reheated when ready to serve. Thin it out with a little extra buttermilk or broth if it thickens too much.
- What sides pair well with smothered pork chops?
- Classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables complement smothered pork chops beautifully.
- Can I freeze leftover smothered pork chops?
- Yes, leftover smothered pork chops can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
