When it comes to soul-satisfying Southern cuisine, “Smothered Pork Chops” are a beloved classic. This dish combines tender pork chops with a rich and flavorful gravy, all cooked to perfection in a single skillet. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for some Southern comfort. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating the ultimate Smothered Pork Chops that will transport your taste buds to the heart of the South.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions :
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
- In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dredge each pork chop in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure both sides are well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Brown the Pork Chops:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and slightly caramelized.
4. Create the Gravy:
- Sprinkle a little bit of the seasoned flour mixture left over from coating the pork chops into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth and whole milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens into a rich gravy.
5. Smother the Pork Chops:
- Return the browned pork chops to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over the pork chops to coat them well.
6. Simmer:
- Cover the skillet and let the pork chops simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and fully cooked. The internal temperature of the pork should reach at least 145°F (63°C).
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the pork chops are cooked to perfection and the gravy is rich and flavorful, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the Smothered Pork Chops, spoon some of the savory gravy over them, and serve hot. This classic Southern comfort dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or rice.
Smothered Pork Chops are a true Southern classic, providing a hearty and comforting meal that is a well-known favorite in the world of soul-satisfying Southern cuisine. Tender pork chops are smothered in a rich and flavorful gravy and cooked in a single skillet to perfection.
Smothered Pork Chops provide a taste of Southern comfort that is difficult to resist, whether it graces your Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or simply a cozy evening at home. Share this traditional recipe with family and friends, and enjoy the richness and warmth it brings to the table.