Linguica and Pork Chops

Linguica and Pork Chops Recipe from Portugal - Ingredients and Directions

Region / culture: Portugal | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Linguica and Pork Chops is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of tender pork chops, savory linguiça sausage, and perfectly seasoned potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

This recipe has its roots in Portuguese cuisine, where linguiça sausage is a popular ingredient in many dishes. The combination of linguiça and pork chops creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that has been enjoyed for generations.

Ingredients

10 potatoes, sliced
6 pork chops
1 lb (454 g) of linguiça
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.5 tsp onion salt
0.5 tsp garlic salt
4 tbsp hot chopped peppers
0.5 cup ketchup
0.5 cup water

How to prepare

Prepare a shallow pan measuring 12x18x2 inches.
Arrange the potatoes to cover the bottom of the pan.
Sprinkle half of the salt, black pepper, garlic salt, onion salt, and chopped pepper over the potatoes.
Place the pork chops on top of the potatoes.
Evenly pour the water and ketchup over the chops.
Sprinkle the remaining spices over the chops.
Thinly slice the linguiça and place it on top.
Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour.
After 1 hour, remove the foil and continue cooking uncovered for 15 minutes to brown.

Variations

Substitute the linguiça with chorizo for a different flavor profile.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a healthier twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly to ensure they cook evenly.

- Adjust the amount of hot chopped peppers to suit your spice preference.

- For a crispier finish, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Linguica and Pork Chops with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal. It pairs well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique for this recipe, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the meats to cook through evenly. Make sure to cover the pan with foil to keep the dish moist and tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find linguiça sausage, you can use any other type of smoked sausage or even bacon as a substitute. Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the pan with foil and store it in the fridge until you're ready to cook. This is a great option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the finished dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Serve it in the baking dish for a rustic and homey presentation, or transfer it to a serving platter for a more elegant look.

Pairing Recommendations

Linguica and Pork Chops pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including rice, pasta, or crusty bread. A side of sautéed greens or a simple salad can also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Linguica and Pork Chops contains around 400 calories, making it a satisfying and balanced meal option.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with most of the carbs coming from the potatoes and ketchup. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The linguiça and pork chops in this recipe provide a good amount of healthy fats. Each serving contains around 20 grams of fat, with the majority coming from the sausage and pork.

Proteins

This dish is a great source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 35 grams. The pork chops and linguiça are both high in protein, making this a satisfying and filling meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the potatoes and peppers. It also provides iron, potassium, and other essential nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains pork and may not be suitable for those with pork allergies. It may also contain gluten depending on the brand of linguiça used.

Summary

Overall, Linguica and Pork Chops is a well-rounded dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a delicious and satisfying meal option for any occasion.

Summary

Linguica and Pork Chops is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of linguiça sausage, tender pork chops, and seasoned potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this hearty and delicious meal with your loved ones!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Linguica and Pork Chops. It was a chilly autumn evening and I had invited my dear friend Maria over for dinner. Maria was a fantastic cook and always seemed to effortlessly whip up the most delicious dishes. I was determined to impress her with something special.

As we sat in my cozy kitchen sipping on cups of hot tea, Maria suddenly reached into her purse and pulled out a tattered old recipe card. "I have something for you," she said with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. She handed me the card and I eagerly read the ingredients and instructions. Linguica and Pork Chops. It sounded exotic and enticing.

Maria explained that she had learned this recipe from her grandmother, who had brought it over from Portugal many years ago. The combination of savory linguica sausage and tender pork chops cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce was a family favorite. I could hardly wait to try it out.

The next day, I set out to gather all the ingredients. I made my way to the local butcher shop where I picked out the freshest pork chops and linguica sausage. As I went from store to store searching for the perfect spices and seasonings, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement building within me.

When I returned home, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work. I browned the pork chops in a hot skillet, savoring the sound of the sizzling meat. The aroma of garlic and onions filled the air as I chopped and sautéed the vegetables. I added the linguica sausage and let it cook until it was golden brown and crispy.

I poured in the tomato sauce and a splash of red wine, allowing the flavors to meld together into a rich and savory sauce. As the dish simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. This was more than just a recipe; it was a connection to my friend Maria and her family's culinary heritage.

When Maria arrived for dinner that evening, she took one bite of the Linguica and Pork Chops and her eyes widened in delight. "This is just like my grandmother used to make," she exclaimed with a smile. I felt a warm glow of satisfaction knowing that I had successfully recreated a beloved family recipe.

From that day on, Linguica and Pork Chops became a regular feature on my dinner table. I would make it for special occasions and family gatherings, always receiving rave reviews from my loved ones. The recipe had become a part of my own culinary repertoire, a symbol of the friendships and traditions that had enriched my life.

As the years passed, I continued to experiment with different variations of the dish, adding my own twists and touches to make it uniquely mine. But no matter how many times I made Linguica and Pork Chops, it always brought me back to that first magical moment in my kitchen with Maria, discovering a recipe that would become a cherished part of my culinary heritage.

And so, as I sit here now reflecting on the journey that led me to this delicious dish, I can't help but feel grateful for the friendships, memories, and flavors that have shaped me into the cook I am today. Cooking is so much more than just following a recipe; it is a way to connect with others, to share stories and traditions, and to create lasting memories that nourish both the body and the soul. And for that, I will always be thankful.