Deliciously Quick: Southern Skillet Pork Chops Recipe
Welcome to a taste of the South with my Sarasota’s Southern Skillet Pork Chops recipe. As a chef specializing in southern-style cuisine, I am thrilled to share this classic southern dish with you.
Using simple and affordable ingredients, this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful pork chops straight from your skillet to your plate. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
As someone who emphasizes the importance of using quality ingredients without breaking the bank, I encourage you to check out your local grocery weekly ad for deals on pork chops and other ingredients. At Country View Grocery in Sarasota, FL, I personally enjoy taking advantage of their weekly specials to get the best prices on meat products.
So come on over to my Southern kitchen and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of the same old boring pork chops? Look no further than Sarasota’s Southern Skillet Pork Chops Recipe!
This recipe is the perfect marriage of classic southern flavors with a modern twist. You won’t want to miss out on the tender and juicy pork chops smothered in a rich and savory gravy that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
With the added touch of pan-fried okra and sweet onions, you’ll be transported to a southern kitchen with each bite. The recipe is easy to make and will become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for impressing guests or whipping up for a weeknight meal.
But don’t just take my word for it, try it out for yourself! You won’t regret indulging in this delicious and comforting dish. Get ready for some serious soul food!
Ingredient List
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you will need to make my Sarasota’s Southern Skillet Pork Chops Recipe. Don’t worry if you don’t have all of them in your pantry, many of these can be found at Country View Grocery, where I like to shop for my weekly groceries. Check out their weekly ad for savings and find coupons for recipes like this one.
Main Ingredients
- 4 pork chops: bone-in or boneless (loin or top loin pork chops)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup bacon fat or vegetable oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 sweet onion, finely chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 14 oz can of chopped tomatoes, drained
- 8 oz package of frozen cut okra
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Substitutions and Variations:
Want to mix it up a bit? Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Swap the pork chops with bone-in turkey wings for a delicious twist on a classic Southern smothered dish.
- Add some heat to this recipe by mixing in some chopped garlic when cooking the onions.
- Try using Tex-Mex spices like chili powder and cumin instead of salt and pepper for a unique take on skillet chops.
- Serve the chops with brown gravy or onion gravy instead of tomato-based sauce.
- Get creative with your side dishes! Instead of mashed potatoes, try serving this recipe with some fried cabbage.
Feel free to experiment until you find your favorite combination that is perfect for you.
The Recipe How-To
Let me guide you through the “Southern Skillet Pork Chops Recipe”. We will be making classic southern fried pork chops, but with a twist. These skillet chops will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Step 1: Seasoning the Pork Chops
Take your pork chops and season them generously with a mixture of salt and pepper. Make sure to rub it all over them so they are evenly coated. Then, let them sit for a few minutes while you prepare the rest of the recipe.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Pour enough oil into a large cast iron skillet to cover the bottom, about 1/4 inch deep. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is hot enough that it starts to sizzle when you add in a drop of water.
Step 3: Coat the Pork Chops
While the oil is heating up, beat 2 eggs in a shallow dish. Dip each seasoned pork chop into the egg mixture to coat, then allow any excess to drip off. Next, place each chop into a bowl filled with seasoned flour mixture (flour mixed with salt and pepper) and coat well on both sides.
Step 4: Fry the Pork Chops
Once coated in flour, carefully lay each pork chop into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on one side before flipping (3-5 minutes per side). Using tongs or a spatula, carefully remove each chop from the skillet once finished cooking.
Step 5: Making Onion Gravy
In the same pan you fried your pork chops in, keep around 3 tablespoons of bacon fat and add one diced sweet onion, cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Then add around 1/4 cup flour and cook until browned. Add chopped parsley, one crushed garlic clove, and one bay leaf in the skillet. Lastly, add one can of drained chopped tomatoes and 1/2 cup of chicken broth, stir slowly until gravy bubbles.
Step 6: Serve the Pork Chops
Arrange your pork chops on a platter and pour over the onion gravy. Serve hot with a side of mashed potatoes, sautéed okra, or fried cabbage.
Now, you have made the perfect southern-style pork chops!
Substitutions and Variations
Sometimes, we need to make some changes to fit our personal tastes or dietary needs. Fortunately, this recipe offers a lot of flexibility when it comes to ingredient substitutions and variants. Here are some ideas for those who want to put their own spin on the classic southern skillet pork chops:
– Okra: If you’re not a fan of okra or can’t get your hands on it, you can replace it with other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans. Just make sure they’re cut into small pieces so they cook through.
– Bay Leaf: While bay leaves lend a unique flavor to the dish, you can omit them if you don’t have any on hand.
– Sweet Onion: In place of sweet onion, feel free to use white or red onion. Each variety has a slightly different taste profile that can enhance the overall flavor of the dish in its own way.
– Pork Chops: This recipe works well with bone-in or boneless pork chops; just adjust your cooking time accordingly.
– Bacon Fat: If you’re not a fan of bacon fat or simply want a leaner option, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or butter. However, keep in mind that the bacon fat does add some additional flavor and richness to the dish.
– Gravy Recipe: While this recipe calls for a classic brown gravy, you can switch things up by making onion gravy instead. This will give the dish a slightly sweeter and milder taste profile.
– Mashed Potatoes: Feel free to swap out mashed potatoes for another classic southern side like fried cabbage or black-eyed peas.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! As long as you stick to the basic cooking method and seasoning requirements, this dish is highly versatile and open to interpretation.
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing Sarasota’s Southern Skillet Pork Chops Recipe, the possibilities are endless. This classic southern dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
For a traditional southern meal, serve the pork chops with a side of mashed potatoes and fried cabbage. The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the savory flavor of the pork chops, while the crispy cabbage adds a nice crunch to the meal. For an added kick, sprinkle some chopped parsley or garlic pork over your mashed potatoes.
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, try serving your pork chops with a Tex-Mex twist. Pair them with black beans, rice, and corn for a hearty meal that will satisfy your cravings for both southern comfort food and spicy Tex-Mex flavors. You can also add some chopped onion and turkey wings to give it an extra kick.
For those looking for lighter fare, pair your pork chops with a side salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Their fresh flavors complement the richness of the pork chops and create a balanced plate.
To fully enjoy Sarasota’s Southern Skillet Pork Chops Recipe, make sure to serve them hot straight from your cast iron skillet. Don’t forget to drizzle some brown gravy or onion gravy on top for an extra burst of flavor that will elevate your dish to another level.
Whatever you choose to pair your pork chops with, make sure to savor every bite and enjoy all the delicious flavors this soul food has to offer.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you’ve cooked up a batch of Sarasota’s Southern Skillet Pork Chops, the next step is to store them properly for future enjoyment. You are in luck as these chops can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. You simply need to follow a few simple steps to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
First, let the pork chops cool down to room temperature after cooking. Then, transfer them into airtight food storage containers or tightly wrapped aluminum foil. It is best to separate the chops with wax paper to avoid sticking together. Label each container with the date it was made and store in the refrigerator.
To reheat, you can choose between an oven or stove-top method. For oven reheating, preheat your oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cover the dish with aluminum foil, leaving a small gap for air circulation. Reheat for about 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
For stove-top reheating, heat up a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat and add some oil or bacon fat to prevent sticking. Place the chops in the skillet and reheat each side for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
To keep your pork chops fresh, keep them stored separately from other food items in your fridge. You can also add additional chicken broth or onion gravy when reheating to increase moisture content and maintain tenderness of your meat. Finally, always remember to discard any pork that has been left out without refrigeration for more than two hours.
By following these tips on storing and reheating Sarasota’s Southern Skillet Pork Chops, you can ensure that every serving will be just as delicious as when it was first made.
Tips for Perfect Results
As a chef with years of experience in southern-style cooking, I’ve learned a few valuable tricks that can elevate this classic Southern skillet pork chops recipe to another level. In this section, I’ll share some tips and recommendations to help you achieve the best possible results every time you prepare this dish.
1. Choose the right cut of pork:
Choose bone-in pork chops for optimum flavor and juiciness. However, make sure not to accidentally choose a cut that’s too lean, as it can result in dry and tough meat. For this specific recipe, bone-in rib or loin chops are perfect choices.
2. Don’t skimp on seasoning:
Seasoning is key for any savory dish and especially important for this one. Be generous when adding salt and black pepper; it brings out the natural flavors of the pork.
3. Brown your chops well:
Searing your pork chops in a hot oil-coated skillet until nicely browned guarantees an enticing caramelized crust that adds complexity to each bite. It’s a small step but makes a significant difference in taste and texture.
4. Keep the temperature right:
A cast iron skillet is best for maintaining uniform heat throughout cooking. Also, keep an eye on your skillet’s heat during the whole process – if it’s too high, your chops will burn, too low, they will be undercooked.
5. Use chicken broth for extra flavor:
Using chicken broth instead of plain water or beef broth gives the dish added depth of flavor without overpowering the pork’s taste.
6. Let them simmer slowly:
Cooking your pork chops at low heat helps retain moisture and allows flavors to develop fully. Plus, gently simmering them in liquid tenderizes tough parts so that even the most budget-friendly cuts come out tender and juicy.
7. Make sure to turn them over:
To ensure even cooking and browning on both sides, flip your pork chops at least once during cooking.
8. Rest before serving:
Patience is a virtue when it comes to preparing your Southern skillet pork chops. Once cooked, remove them from the heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat.
Remember, these tips are suggestions, but they can make a significant difference in the end result. With some practice and experimentation, you’ll find your own way of perfecting this classic Southern recipe.
Bottom Line
:
After trying Sarasota’s Southern Skillet Pork Chops Recipe, I can confidently say that this will become a staple in your meal rotation. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also packs with bold and rich flavors that leave your taste buds craving for more.
By following the simple instructions and tips, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect balance of seasoning and tenderness for your pork chops. You can even experiment with different variations like substituting okra with fried cabbage or adding garlic to your brown gravy recipe.
Whether you’re in the mood for classic southern smothered pork or southern fried pork chops, this versatile recipe has got you covered. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in with loved ones. You can even pair it with mashed potatoes or baked pork for an ultimate soul food experience.
At the end of the day, this recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also saves you money. Make sure to check out local ads like County Market Ads Week or Country View Grocery Weekly Ad to find coupons and savings on boneless pork and chicken broth.
So what are you waiting for? Head to First Watch or Tex Mex in Sarasota, FL to get inspired by their Southern-style cuisine, then go home and try Sarasota’s Southern Skillet Pork Chops Recipe yourself. Trust me, your mouth will thank you.
Sarasota’s Southern Skillet Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 thick bone in pork chops
- 1 large sweet onion (cut in half and thin sliced)
- 1 (15 ounce) can chopped tomatoes (San Marzano or a good quality tomato)
- 1 (15 ounce) can field peas, rinse and drain (Bushes makes some black eyed field peas or lady peas which are very good, but there are several bran)
- 1 1/2 cups okra (I use frozen)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
- Pork Chops -- Season the chops well with salt and pepper on each side. Then in an oven proof pan, I love my cast iron, but you can use any good heavy duty pan, heat up the oil to medium high and sear the pork chops on both sides. They will continue to cook in the oven so don't over cook. We are just searing them lightly, then remove to a plate as we make the sauce.
- Base Sauce -- Add the onion to the pan with the pork drippings and cook a couple of minutes until they lightly brown and soften. Then add the tomatoes (including the juice), broth, peas (drained and rinsed), okra, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Go easy on the salt until the dish is done cooking, you don't want to over salt. Bring to a boil, reduce and simmer a couple of minutes.
- Bake -- Heat the oven to 375. Put the chops back in the sauce and push them down so the sauce and juice covers the pork chops. Cover with a lid of you can use foil and cook 15 minutes. Season with fresh parsley.
- Serve -- To me this is best served with cheesy grits on the side.