Delicious Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops Recipe
Hear me, fine folks of the culinary arts, and lend me thine ears! For today, I come with a recipe that will transport you straight to the heart of the south! A recipe that is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more. I present to thee, the Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops recipe – a culinary masterpiece that’ll have you smacking your lips with delight.
Picture a golden brown pork chop, incredibly crispy on the outside but moist and tender inside. The sound of it sizzling in the frying pan will be music to thy ears. Enjoy its savory taste, enriched with garlic cloves, yellow onion, black pepper, and coated with all-purpose flour to create golden brown outer shell. The beautiful contrast between its crispy skin and juicy meat is simply irresistible.
Whether you’re having guests over or just preparing a meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress all who lay their eyes on it. My friends, let me tell you – this southern-style Pan Fried Pork Chop recipe is one for the history books!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hark! Listen closely, dear friends. I have a tale to tell – a tale of tender, juicy pork chops fried to golden perfection that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Yes, I speak of the Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops Recipe, a dish fit for kings and commoners alike.
Why do I urge thee to try this recipe? Forsooth, let me count the ways. First and foremost, it is easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients that are easy on thy budget. With some flour, salt, pepper, and oil thou shalt be well on thy way to creating a classic Southern dish such as you have never tasted before.
But what truly sets these pork chops apart from others is the method of frying them in a pan until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Imagine biting into succulent meat that yields under your knife like butter – that is what you will get when you try this recipe.
Furthermore, not only does this dish excite thy palate with savory flavors, but it also comforts thy soul with its familiar taste. It is nothing too fancy or pretentious – just good old-fashioned home cooking at its best. So if thou art feeling homesick for the South or just looking for some down-home comfort food, look no further than this recipe.
In conclusion, dear friends and fellow foodies, I implore thee to try these Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops. They are easy to make, delectable to taste, and will transport you straight to a front porch swing in Dixie. So grab your apron and skillet and get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience!
Ingredient List
Before diving into the recipe instructions, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients for these Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops. For this recipe, you will need the following:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick)
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of onion powder
- ½ teaspoon of paprika
- ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola or peanut oil)
These simple ingredients are the foundation to make the classic Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops. The seasoned flour will give that crispy texture and the wonderful blend of spices will result in a satisfyingly flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion.
The Recipe How-To
Here’s where the magic begins! In this section, I will walk you through step-by-step instructions that will lead to perfectly cooked Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops. Grab all the ingredients from the ingredient list and let’s get started!
Dredge the pork chops
In a shallow dish, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of seasoned salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Coat both sides of 4 bone-in pork chops with the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
Heat up the frying pan
In a large heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan, heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. You may also use peanut oil or canola oil for this recipe.
Cook the Pork Chops
Add the floured pork chops into the hot oil, and cook until golden brown, around 5 minutes per side. Make sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Then transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels to get rid of any excess oil. Let the Pork Chops Rest for a few minutes before serving.
Southern Smothered Pork Chops variation
To add some variety to your fried pork chops routine, you can turn them into southern smothered pork chops! After cooking the pork chops in the skillet, remove them and place them onto a foil-covered baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of cornmeal. Sprinkle over each pork chop evenly. Return to oven for additional crispy fried goodness! You can also make a simple gravy recipe using remaining oil by stirring in two tablespoons of flour, cooking over medium heat until browned, then adding in 1 and a half cups of water slowly. Stir constantly! Add salt and pepper to taste for the classic southern smothered pork chops and serve with some creamy mashed potatoes for a delicious side dish.
Chicken Fried Pork Chops variation
Another variation you can make with this recipe is turning them to chicken fried pork chops! The method is the same; the only difference is that you will use a different seasoning mix. For chicken-fried pork chops, you can use a mixture of 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Add this mixture to a shallow dish and coat both sides of the pork chops thoroughly before frying. You can also deep fry these in a cast-iron skillet for crispier pork chops!
**Congratulations!
Substitutions and Variations
Methinks some of you may wish to shake things up a bit from time to time. Fear not, for I have some suggestions to help tweak this recipe according to your liking.
If you prefer a leaner cut of meat, try using boneless pork chops instead of bone-in. This will also reduce the cooking time, so keep an eye out and adjust accordingly.
For those who enjoy a little heat in their food, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoned flour mixture for an extra kick.
If you prefer a different type of flour, such as cornmeal or almond flour, feel free to use that instead of all-purpose flour. You could also substitute the milk and egg wash with buttermilk for a tangy twist.
For a healthier option, you could bake the pork chops instead of pan-frying them. Preheat your oven at 350F and place the dredged pork chops on a baking sheet coated in cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145F.
Now if you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something completely different, consider smothering your pork chops with a delicious brown gravy. Simply remove the pork chops from the skillet once cooked and add garlic and onion to the remaining oil before whisking in some all-purpose flour and broth until it thickens into a velvety smooth texture.
No matter which variation you choose, make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly and don’t forget to let your pork chops rest before digging in.
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops, you can’t go wrong with classic southern sides. Some of my favorite side dishes to accompany these delicious chops include mashed potatoes, collard greens, fried okra, cornbread, and mac and cheese. These flavor-packed dishes are the perfect complement to the savory taste of the pork chops.
For a healthier option, consider serving the pan-fried pork chops with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. A side of green beans, sauteed mushrooms or sliced tomatoes will balance out the rich flavors of this dish.
If you’re looking for a unique twist, try serving Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops with a tangy barbecue sauce. The sweetness and acidity of the sauce pair excellently with the salty and flavorful pork.
To elevate the meal even further, opt for a southern-style gravy recipe, which is made by adding flour to the drippings in your frying pan to create a rich, creamy sauce perfect for spooning over your chops.
In terms of drinks, sweet tea or lemonade make for excellent choices. If you prefer an adult beverage, why not try a bold red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon? The tannins in the wine will help to cut through the fatty pork flavors while highlighting its smoky undertones.
Whatever serving and pairing option you choose, know that Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops is a memorable meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Hark! Lend me thy ear, for I shall impart wisdom on how to make-ahead, store and reheat these southern pan-fried pork chops. Thy stomach shall thank thee in abundance!
If thou art planning on making these fried pork chops ahead of time, mayhaps for a grand feast or a resplendent occasion, it is best to cook them to an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) rather than the usual 145°F (63°C). Once the pork chops have been fried, set them aside to cool and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to two days.
Upon reheating, preheat thy oven to 350°F (177°C) and place the pork chops on a baking sheet. Add some water to keep the meat moist as it reheats. Place in the oven and reheat for approximately 10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
If thou dost not wish to use the oven, you can also reheat these chops on a frying pan. First, heat a frying pan over medium heat and add some oil or butter. Then add the pork chops and heat them for about five minutes per side, or until they are heated all the way through.
Bear in mind that reheated food never tastes quite as good as freshly cooked meals. But fret not! These southern fried pork chops are hearty fare that can withstand reheating without losing too much of their flavor or texture.
Thou may also choose to store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in thy refrigerator for up to three days. However, I doth recommend consuming them before then, else they may become tough and lose their savour.
Now – storing and reheating done – let us move onto serving these delicious chops alongside some classic southern-style sides such as mashed potatoes, cornbread or collard greens for a mouth-watering meal that shall satisfy even the most discerning of taste buds.
Tips for Perfect Results
Listen up, my fellow culinary enthusiast! As a chef with years of experience in southern-style cuisine, I have learned a thing or two about the perfect pan-fried pork chops. So, here are some tips to ensure you get the most delicious and succulent southern fried pork chops you’ve ever tasted!
Firstly, make sure that your pork chops are at least 1 inch thick. Thicker chops will stay juicy and tender even after frying. If your chops are thinner, they are more likely to dry out when cooking.
Secondly, when dredging your pork chops in seasoned flour, make sure each chop is fully coated. This will ensure a crispy texture and even browning when cooking.
Next, use a frying pan large enough to hold all the pork chops without overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding the pan can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy rather than crispy fried pork chops.
Heat the oil properly before adding the pork chops in. Heating the oil over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes before cooking will ensure that the pork chops cook evenly and remain golden brown on both sides.
Don’t forget to season your pork chops with salt and black pepper before dredging them in seasoned flour. This easy step goes a long way in elevating the flavor of your classic southern dish.
Cook your bone-in or boneless pork chops on medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. If you’re unsure about cooking times, invest in a meat thermometer to avoid undercooked or overcooked pork chops.
Finally, once cooked, let your Pork Chops Rest for a few minutes before serving. This crucial step helps retain moisture, making your southern fried or smothered pork chops juicier and flavorful than ever before.
Follow these tips closely, and I guarantee you’ll get perfect results every time!
FAQ
Hark! In this section, I shall address your frequently asked inquiries and clear all your doubts. Thou may find answers to some questions which might have remained unnoticed in the previous sections. I pray that by the end of this section, you’ll have no more questions regarding this recipe. So, come hither and let’s explore the FAQ section together!
What’s the best way to fry pork chops without drying them out?
When cooking thick pork chops on a skillet, it’s best to keep the skillet open and avoid adding any liquid. Set the heat to medium, and allow the pork chops to cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. This should take around 6 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the pork. Make sure to flip the meat occasionally to cook it evenly. If the pork starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low to avoid overcooking.
What is the best way to cook pork chops to keep them tender?
When it comes to preparing a delicious southern-style pork chop, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s important to select the right cut of meat. Thick-cut, bone-in pork chops are ideal, as they will sear properly and retain moisture throughout the cooking process. Secondly, while you may be tempted to brine the pork chops for added flavor, it’s actually better to simply season them well with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices of your choosing. Thirdly, once you’ve seasoned the pork chops, be sure to let them rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help ensure that they cook evenly and stay juicy.
When it comes time to sear the pork chops, you’ll want to use a medium-high heat, and be sure to baste them lightly with any juices that accumulate in the pan. Remember to let them rest for a few minutes after cooking, as this will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender. Finally, serve the pork chops with your favorite side dishes and enjoy! With the right technique and a little bit of love, these southern-style pork chops are sure to be a hit at your next family gathering or dinner party.
What should I soak my pork chops in before frying?
When it comes to seasoning my pork chops, I prefer to skip the tangy flavor that buttermilk adds and instead choose to use regular milk. I like to season the chops with my preferred spices before allowing them to soak in the milk for a minimum of one hour.
How long do you cook pork chops in a frying pan?
When cooking thin pork chops on high heat, it is best to fry them for a total of 4 to 6 minutes, turning them over after 2 to 3 minutes for even browning. For thicker chops, it is crucial to check the internal temperature with a digital thermometer after browning both sides. Thicker chops may require 5 to 6 minutes per side to fully cook.
Bottom Line
thou mayest, good readers, that the Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops Recipe is one that shall tickle thy taste buds and satisfy thy hunger. This recipe hath been tested and proven to be a true masterpiece of southern-style cuisine.
In conclusion, whether thou choosest to make thy pork chops southern fried or smothered, this recipe shall guide thee towards perfect results every time. Remember to rest thy pork after cooking and to adjust thy cooking time according to the internal temperature of the meat. Pair thy pork chops with classic southern sides such as mashed potatoes or cornmeal biscuits.
Additionally, do not shy away from experimenting with different variations and substitutions. Whether thou uses bone-in or boneless chops, or even substituteth pork with chicken, this recipe can adapt to thy preferences and dietary restrictions.
So go ahead, brave cooks, and try out this easy yet delicious pan-fried pork chop recipe for a taste of classic southern comfort food. Thy taste buds shall thank thee for it!
Southern Pan Fried Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients
- 9 pork chops
- salt and pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped fine
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Wash pork chops, pat dry and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet, heat the oil - medium high heat.
- Dredge chops in flour and shake of excess and sear in the heated oil - cook for about 1 minute per side to brown.
- Remove chops from skillet and place on a brown paper bag to absorb excess oil.
- Turn skillet to medium low and add onion and garlic to the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes to soften the onion and then add chops back to the skillet.
- Cover with 1/4 cup water and put a lid on the skillet and steam the chops for about 20 minutes.