Blue Cheese 'n' Chops

Blue Cheese and Chops Recipe with Brown Rice and Red Pear

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Blue Cheese 'n' Chops is a delightful dish that combines the savory taste of pork chops with the tangy flavor of blue cheese, all complemented by the sweetness of pears and the crunch of walnuts. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a gourmet touch to their home-cooked meals. It's a dish that promises to bring a sophisticated flair to your dinner table, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or a cozy family dinner.

History

The combination of pork and fruit has a long history, with roots in various cuisines around the world. The addition of blue cheese to this pairing is a relatively modern twist that adds depth and complexity to the dish. This recipe, Blue Cheese 'n' Chops, is a testament to the evolution of culinary practices, where traditional ingredients meet contemporary flavors to create something uniquely delicious.

Ingredients

cooking spray
2.5 cups of brown rice
4 scallions (green onions)
0.33 cup of apple juice
0.25 cup of walnuts
0.5 tsp of salt
0.13 tsp of black pepper
1 tsp of dried thyme
4 boneless pork loin chops
1 red pear
0.25 cup of crumbled blue cheese

How to prepare

Spray a 2 qt (1.89 liter) square baking dish and a large skillet with nonstick coating; set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, green onions, 2 tbsp of apple juice, walnuts (if desired), 0.25 tsp of salt, and 0.13 tsp of pepper.
Spoon the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, stir together the thyme, 0.25 tsp of salt, and 0.25 to 0.5 tsp of pepper.
Rub the mixture onto both sides of the chops.
Cook the chops in the skillet over medium-high heat until browned, turning once.
Arrange the browned chops on top of the rice mixture.
Pour the remaining apple juice over the chops.
Bake, covered, in a 350°F (177°C) oven for about 30 minutes or until no pink remains in the chops and the juices run clear.
Transfer the chops to serving plates.
Stir the chopped pear and blue cheese into the hot rice mixture; serve with the chops.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute the pork chops with chicken breasts. Vegetarians can replace the pork with grilled portobello mushrooms, which provide a meaty texture. For a nut-free option, omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the pork chops are juicy and flavorful, avoid overcooking them. Pork chops are best enjoyed when they are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and then allowed to rest for a few minutes before serving. For the blue cheese, choose a variety that suits your taste preference; some are milder, while others are more pungent. Lastly, when baking, cover the dish tightly to keep the moisture in, ensuring the rice doesn't dry out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side of steamed green vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, to add color and additional nutrients to your meal. A light, crisp salad also pairs well, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the main dish.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the pork chops before baking is crucial for developing flavor. This technique, known as searing, creates a delicious crust on the meat. Baking the dish covered allows the ingredients to cook evenly and retain moisture, resulting in tender pork and flavorful rice.

Ingredient Substitutions

If blue cheese is too strong for your taste, feta or goat cheese are milder alternatives that still offer a nice tang. Brown rice can be substituted with quinoa for a higher protein content. Apple juice can be replaced with white wine for a more adult flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The rice mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. On the day of serving, simply brown the pork chops, assemble the dish, and bake. This makes Blue Cheese 'n' Chops an excellent option for hassle-free entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pork chops atop the rice mixture on individual plates for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or parsley to add a touch of color. A drizzle of reduced balsamic vinegar around the plate can also enhance the visual appeal and add a sweet-tart flavor contrast.

Pairing Recommendations

A medium-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or a lighter Merlot, pairs beautifully with the savory pork and tangy blue cheese. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider complements the flavors of the dish wonderfully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven until heated through. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved on medium power until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Blue Cheese 'n' Chops contains approximately 450 calories. This makes it a suitable main course for those managing their calorie intake, especially when paired with a light side dish.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a balanced amount of carbohydrates, primarily from the brown rice and pear. A serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, making it a good source of energy. The fiber content from the brown rice and pear also aids in digestion and provides a feeling of fullness.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the walnuts, blue cheese, and the pork chops themselves. A serving contains about 20 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. The unsaturated fats from the walnuts are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

Each serving of Blue Cheese 'n' Chops is rich in high-quality protein, providing about 30 grams. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making this dish a great option for post-workout meals or to support overall muscle health.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6 and selenium from the pork chops, vitamin C from the pear, and calcium from the blue cheese. These nutrients support various bodily functions, including immune system health and bone strength.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens, including nuts (walnuts) and dairy (blue cheese). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should make appropriate substitutions or avoid this dish.

Summary

Overall, Blue Cheese 'n' Chops is a nutritious and balanced dish, providing a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty meal that supports a healthy diet.

Summary

Blue Cheese 'n' Chops is a sophisticated yet comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of pork, the tanginess of blue cheese, and the sweetness of pears and walnuts. It's a well-balanced meal that's sure to impress, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, this recipe is a delicious choice that won't disappoint.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Blue Cheese 'n' Chops. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining brightly, and the smell of barbecue was wafting through the air. I was at a friend's backyard cookout, surrounded by good company and delicious food. As I made my way through the buffet line, my eyes landed on a platter of perfectly grilled pork chops topped with a creamy blue cheese sauce. I had never tried anything like it before, and I knew I had to get my hands on the recipe.

I approached my friend, who was the host of the cookout, and asked her where she had learned to make such a mouthwatering dish. She smiled and told me that the recipe had been passed down to her from her grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. Intrigued, I begged her to share the recipe with me, and she happily obliged.

That night, I couldn't wait to try my hand at making Blue Cheese 'n' Chops. I gathered all the necessary ingredients – pork chops, blue cheese, heavy cream, butter, and a few seasonings – and got to work in the kitchen. As I cooked, the aroma of sizzling pork and creamy cheese filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the dish was finally ready, I took a bite and was instantly transported to flavor heaven. The tangy blue cheese paired perfectly with the juicy, tender pork chops, creating a symphony of flavors in my mouth. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Blue Cheese 'n' Chops for countless family gatherings, dinner parties, and special occasions. Each time, it is met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always smile and think back to that fateful day at my friend's cookout, where I first discovered this culinary gem.

As I continued to hone my cooking skills and experiment with different variations of the recipe, I began to add my own personal touch to it. Sometimes I would swap out the pork chops for chicken or steak, or play around with different types of blue cheese to get the perfect balance of flavors. No matter how I tweaked the recipe, it always remained a crowd favorite.

One day, as I was making Blue Cheese 'n' Chops for a family dinner, my granddaughter walked into the kitchen and asked what I was cooking. I explained the dish to her, and she immediately perked up, eager to learn how to make it herself. I was overjoyed to pass down this beloved recipe to the next generation, knowing that it would continue to bring joy and satisfaction to our family for years to come.

As I sit here reminiscing about the journey I have taken with Blue Cheese 'n' Chops, I am filled with gratitude for the friends, family, and mentors who have guided me along the way. Each person I have met and each recipe I have discovered has contributed to my culinary knowledge and passion for cooking. I may have stumbled upon this recipe by chance, but it has become a cherished part of my cooking legacy, one that I will continue to share with those I hold dear.