Juicy Pork Chops with Savory Stewed Tomatoes: A Comfort Food Classic
This recipe for pork chops with stewed tomatoes is a timeless classic, offering a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. The combination of juicy, tender pork chops with the rich, tangy flavor of stewed tomatoes creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it a winner for busy cooks. We’ll explore the recipe in detail, covering ingredient selection, preparation techniques, cooking methods, and serving suggestions to ensure you achieve perfect results every time.
Why This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why this pork chops with stewed tomatoes recipe is a winner:
* **Flavor Combination:** The savory pork chops and the sweet and acidic stewed tomatoes create a balanced and harmonious flavor profile. The richness of the pork is cut through by the brightness of the tomatoes, making for a truly satisfying dish.
* **Simplicity:** The recipe uses readily available ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
* **Versatility:** You can easily customize the recipe to your liking by adding different herbs, spices, or vegetables.
* **Comfort Food:** This dish is a true comfort food classic, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia.
* **Affordability:** Pork chops are often an affordable cut of meat, making this a budget-friendly meal option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious pork chop recipe:
* **Pork Chops:** 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick. Bone-in chops tend to be more flavorful, but boneless chops cook more quickly and evenly. Look for chops that are well-marbled with fat, as this will contribute to their juiciness.
* **Stewed Tomatoes:** 2 (14.5-ounce) cans of stewed tomatoes, undrained. You can use plain stewed tomatoes or ones with added herbs and spices, depending on your preference. Diced tomatoes can be substituted, but the stewed variety provides a richer texture.
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. Onion forms the aromatic base of the stewed tomatoes, adding depth and sweetness.
* **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic complements the onion and adds another layer of flavor to the sauce.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons olive oil. Olive oil is used to sear the pork chops and sauté the onion and garlic.
* **Dried Herbs:** 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil. These herbs add a classic Italian flavor to the stewed tomatoes. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of the dish. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the salt and pepper.
* **Sugar:** 1 teaspoon (optional). A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, especially if they are particularly tart. This is optional, adjust to your liking.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** 1/4 teaspoon (optional). For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stewed tomatoes.
* **Fresh Parsley:** Chopped, for garnish (optional). Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.
* **Flour (optional):** 1-2 tablespoons. Used for dredging the pork chops to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Equipment You’ll Need
* Large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring spoons
* Measuring cups
* Spatula or tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a detailed guide to making pork chops with stewed tomatoes:
**Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops**
1. **Pat the pork chops dry:** Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the pork chops dry. This is essential for achieving a good sear.
2. **Season the pork chops:** Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. If using, lightly dredge the pork chops in flour, shaking off any excess. This will help them develop a nice crust when seared. The flour is optional, though, as it will make a slightly thicker sauce.
**Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops**
1. **Heat the olive oil:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should be shimmering but not smoking.
2. **Sear the pork chops:** Carefully place the pork chops in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and have a nice crust. The internal temperature should reach 145F.
3. **Remove the pork chops:** Remove the seared pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
**Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics**
1. **Sauté the onion:** Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. If the pan seems dry, add a little more olive oil.
2. **Add the garlic:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute more, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
**Step 4: Make the Stewed Tomatoes**
1. **Add the stewed tomatoes:** Pour the stewed tomatoes (undrained) into the skillet with the onion and garlic.
2. **Add the herbs and spices:** Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. **Bring to a simmer:** Bring the stewed tomatoes to a simmer over medium heat.
**Step 5: Simmer the Pork Chops in the Stewed Tomatoes**
1. **Return the pork chops to the skillet:** Gently place the seared pork chops back into the skillet with the stewed tomatoes. Make sure the pork chops are partially submerged in the sauce.
2. **Cover and simmer:** Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate results.
3. **Check for doneness:** The pork chops are done when they are no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. If the pork chops are browning too quickly, reduce the heat further.
**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
1. **Garnish (optional):** Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish, if desired.
2. **Serve:** Serve the pork chops with stewed tomatoes hot over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips for Perfect Pork Chops with Stewed Tomatoes
* **Choose the Right Pork Chops:** Opt for pork chops that are about 1-inch thick. Thicker chops will stay juicier during cooking. Look for chops with good marbling, as the fat will render and add flavor.
* **Don’t Overcook the Pork Chops:** Pork chops can become dry and tough if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to the correct internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Resting the pork chops for a few minutes after cooking will also help them retain their juices.
* **Use High-Quality Stewed Tomatoes:** The quality of the stewed tomatoes will greatly impact the flavor of the dish. Choose a brand that you trust and that uses ripe, flavorful tomatoes.
* **Season Generously:** Don’t be afraid to season the pork chops and stewed tomatoes generously with salt and pepper. Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors of the dish.
* **Add a Touch of Sweetness:** A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
* **Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce:** If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few minutes longer. If it’s too thick, add a little water or chicken broth.
* **Let the Pork Chops Rest:** Allow the pork chops to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
* **Add other Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the stewed tomatoes, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
* **Spice it Up:** If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stewed tomatoes.
## Variations and Additions
This pork chops with stewed tomatoes recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some variations and additions you can try:
* **Italian Sausage:** Add browned Italian sausage to the stewed tomatoes for a heartier meal.
* **Bell Peppers:** Sauté sliced bell peppers with the onion for added flavor and color.
* **Mushrooms:** Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onion and garlic.
* **Potatoes:** Add diced potatoes to the stewed tomatoes for a one-pot meal.
* **Wine:** Deglaze the skillet with a splash of red or white wine after searing the pork chops for added depth of flavor. Be sure to let the wine reduce slightly before adding the stewed tomatoes.
* **Balsamic Vinegar:** Add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the stewed tomatoes for a touch of tanginess.
* **Cream:** Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
* **Spicy Pork Chops:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the pork chop seasoning for a spicy kick.
* **Smoked Paprika:** Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky flavor.
* **Bacon:** Crumble cooked bacon over the top of the finished dish for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pork chops with stewed tomatoes are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
* **Rice:** Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
* **Pasta:** Toss with your favorite pasta shape, such as penne, farfalle, or spaghetti.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
* **Polenta:** Top creamy polenta with the pork chops and stewed tomatoes for an Italian-inspired dish.
* **Crusty Bread:** Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
* **Quinoa:** Serve over quinoa for a healthy and protein-packed meal.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Serve alongside roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
* **Side Salad:** Serve with a simple side salad for a light and refreshing accompaniment.
Make-Ahead Instructions
This pork chops with stewed tomatoes recipe can be made ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of simmering the pork chops in the stewed tomatoes. Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the stew in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Add the seared pork chops and simmer until heated through and cooked to 145F.
Storage Instructions
Leftover pork chops with stewed tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Per serving, based on 4 servings)
* Calories: 400-500
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g
*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.* Make sure that you adjust the recipe to your liking. The best way to learn to cook is to experiment.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting pork chops with stewed tomatoes! This dish is sure to become a family favorite.