Browned Pork Chops with Gravy

Browned Pork Chops with Gravy Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Browned Pork Chops with Gravy is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. The tender pork chops are seasoned with a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, then cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich and creamy mushroom gravy. Served over a bed of hot cooked noodles, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

History

This recipe for Browned Pork Chops with Gravy has been a favorite in American households for generations. The combination of tender pork chops and savory gravy is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

4 boneless pork loin chops (12 oz (340 g))
0.5 tsp dried sage leaves
0.5 tsp dried marjoram leaves
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.13 tsp salt
nonstick olive oil cooking spray
0.25 cup coarsely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup sliced mushrooms
0.75 cup beef broth
0.33 cup fat-free sour cream
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp dijon mustard
2 cup hot cooked noodles
chopped parsley (optional)

How to prepare

Trim the fat from the chops.
Stir together sage, marjoram, pepper, and salt.
Rub the mixture on both sides of the chops.
Spray a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat.
Place the chops in the skillet.
Cook for 5 minutes, turning once, or until the chops are just barely pink.
Remove the chops from the skillet and keep them warm.
Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring.
Add the mushrooms and broth.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 3 to 4 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender.
Whisk together sour cream, flour, and mustard in a medium bowl.
Whisk in about 3 tbsp of broth from the skillet.
Stir the sour cream mixture into the skillet.
Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
Serve the mixture over the pork chops and noodles.
Sprinkle with parsley, if desired.

Variations

Substitute chicken broth for beef broth for a lighter flavor.
Add a splash of white wine to the gravy for a touch of acidity.
Top with crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to trim the fat from the pork chops before cooking to ensure a lean and tender result.

- Cooking the pork chops just until they are barely pink will help to keep them juicy and flavorful.

- Whisking together the sour cream, flour, and mustard before adding it to the skillet will help to prevent lumps in the gravy.

- Serving the dish over hot cooked noodles will help to soak up the delicious gravy and add an extra layer of comfort to the meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Browned Pork Chops with Gravy over hot cooked noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete and balanced dinner.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the pork chops before making the gravy helps to develop a rich and savory flavor.

- Simmering the mushrooms in the broth helps to infuse the gravy with their earthy taste.

- Whisking together the sour cream, flour, and mustard before adding it to the skillet helps to thicken the gravy and create a smooth texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless for a more flavorful result.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.

- Use whole wheat noodles instead of traditional noodles for added fiber.

Make Ahead Tips

The pork chops can be seasoned and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance.

- The gravy can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

- Cook the noodles just before serving to ensure they are hot and fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. - Serve the dish in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation. - Arrange the pork chops and noodles on a platter and spoon the gravy over the top for a family-style meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot, for a classic combination.

- Serve with a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.

- Finish the meal with a simple dessert, such as vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit, for a sweet ending.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

- Add a splash of broth or water to the gravy before reheating to prevent it from becoming too thick.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

380 per serving

Carbohydrates

24g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 7g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 32g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 6% DV

- Calcium: 6% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (sour cream)

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and iron, but is higher in fat and calories due to the creamy gravy.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a simple yet comforting dish that reminded me of the meals my own grandmother used to make when I was a young girl. As I read through the list of ingredients and instructions, memories of her kitchen flooded back to me, and I knew I had to give it a try.

I had learned to cook at a young age, watching my grandmother prepare meals for our large family with ease and grace. She never used measuring cups or written recipes, relying instead on her instincts and years of experience in the kitchen. I inherited her love for cooking and experimenting with new flavors, and over the years, I had accumulated a collection of recipes from various places and people.

This particular recipe for Browned Pork Chops with Gravy came from an old cookbook that I had picked up at a thrift store. The pages were yellowed and fragile, but the recipes were timeless classics that had stood the test of time. I could sense the love and care that went into each dish, and I knew that this recipe would be no exception.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed - pork chops, flour, butter, chicken broth, and seasonings - and set to work in my own kitchen. As I browned the pork chops in a hot skillet, the sizzle and aroma filled the room, taking me back to my grandmother's kitchen where the sounds and smells of cooking were ever-present.

I felt her presence with me as I seasoned the chops with salt and pepper, dredged them in flour, and added them back to the skillet to cook through. The meat turned golden brown and crispy on the outside, creating a mouthwatering crust that promised a juicy and tender interior.

Once the pork chops were cooked through, I removed them from the skillet and set them aside to rest. In the same pan, I melted butter and added flour to create a roux, which would thicken the gravy. I slowly poured in chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming.

As the gravy simmered and thickened, I seasoned it with a dash of Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of thyme. The aroma of the herbs and spices filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in my kitchen.

I returned the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the rich and savory gravy over them. The flavors melded together beautifully, creating a harmonious balance of salty, savory, and umami notes that danced on my taste buds.

I plated the pork chops with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans, just like my grandmother used to do. The meal was a nostalgic journey back to my childhood, a time when food was more than just sustenance - it was a way to show love and care for those around you.

As I sat down to enjoy my Browned Pork Chops with Gravy, I closed my eyes and savored each bite. The flavors were perfect - the pork chops were tender and juicy, the gravy rich and velvety, and the sides complemented the main dish beautifully.

I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction as I finished my meal, knowing that I had successfully recreated a beloved recipe from my past. My grandmother would have been proud of me, I thought, as I cleared my plate and washed the dishes.

Cooking has always been a form of therapy for me, a way to relax and unwind after a long day. But it is also a way to connect with my past, to honor the traditions and memories that have shaped me into the person I am today.

As I put away the leftovers and turned off the lights in my kitchen, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the culinary heritage that had been passed down to me. I knew that I would continue to cook and experiment with new recipes, always keeping my grandmother's spirit alive in my kitchen. And I knew that every time I made Browned Pork Chops with Gravy, I would be transported back to a time when love and food were one and the same.