Transport yourself to the heart of the South with a soul-warming dish that’s sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort – Southern Smothered Pork Chops! With their tender, juicy pork chops smothered in a rich and savory gravy, this classic Southern recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Join us as we delve into the art of creating this beloved dish, from selecting the perfect pork chops to mastering the art of gravy-making. Get ready to experience the warmth and hospitality of the South with every bite of these delicious smothered pork chops!
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3-4 thick-cut bone-in pork chops (1 to 1 1/2 inches thick)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, divided
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- Season the Pork Chops:
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season the pork chops generously on both sides with the spice mixture.
- Coat the Pork Chops:
- Place 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each seasoned pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Brown the Pork Chops:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the browned pork chops to a plate and set aside.
- Saute the Onions and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make the Gravy:
- Add the unsalted butter to the skillet and allow it to melt. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Add the Broth and Cream:
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and continue cooking until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Return the Pork Chops to the Skillet:
- Return the browned pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over the pork chops to coat them evenly.
- Simmer and Serve:
- Cover the skillet and simmer the pork chops in the gravy for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Boneless Pork Chops: If you prefer boneless pork chops, you can use them instead of bone-in chops. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chops may cook faster.
- Herb Variation: Add a sprinkle of dried thyme or rosemary to the spice mixture for added flavor.
- Mushroom Addition: For a twist on traditional Southern smothered pork chops, add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions and garlic for a hearty and earthy flavor.
Keto Version: For a keto-friendly version of Southern Smothered Pork Chops, skip the flour dredge and use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or almond flour to thicken the gravy. Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for coating the pork chops. Use heavy cream in place of the flour-based roux for a creamy and indulgent gravy.
Low Carb Version: To reduce the carb content of Southern Smothered Pork Chops, omit the flour entirely and use a combination of xanthan gum and almond flour or coconut flour to thicken the gravy. Serve the pork chops over cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower instead of traditional mashed potatoes for a low-carb alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe? A: Yes, boneless pork chops can be used instead of bone-in chops. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time as boneless chops may cook faster.
Q: Can I make the gravy ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to thin it out.
Q: What side dishes pair well with smothered pork chops? A: Southern smothered pork chops pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or cornbread for soaking up the delicious gravy. Steamed vegetables or a crisp salad also make excellent accompaniments.
In conclusion, Southern Smothered Pork Chops are a quintessential comfort food that embodies the warmth and hospitality of Southern cuisine. With their tender pork chops and rich, savory gravy, they’re a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, these smothered pork chops are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner Southern chef, and treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of Southern Smothered Pork Chops tonight!
