Glazed Pork Chops Recipe ๐ฝ๏ธ
Overview:
Glazed Pork Chops are a delightful culinary adventure, offering a perfect blend of succulent pork, tangy glaze, and aromatic spices. This easy-to-follow recipe yields tender oven-baked pork chops that are sure to become a family favorite. Paired with steamed green beans and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Ingredients:
- 6 pork chops
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- 6 tablespoons ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
Directions:
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Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a casserole dish lightly and set aside.
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Seasoning the Chops: Rinse the pork chops under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels. This step ensures that the meat is clean and ready for seasoning. Sprinkle both sides of the chops evenly with salt and pepper.
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Cornstarch Dusting: Dust each pork chop with cornstarch on both sides. This simple technique not only adds a light coating to the meat but also acts as a tenderizer, ensuring your pork chops turn out irresistibly tender and juicy.
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Browning the Chops: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and brown them on both sides until they develop a golden crust. This step not only enhances the flavor but also creates a beautiful caramelization on the surface of the meat.
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Assembling the Dish: Transfer the browned pork chops to the prepared casserole dish, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking. Optionally, place a slice of lemon on each chop or sprinkle them with a little bottled lemon juice for a refreshing citrus twist.
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Creating the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and water to create the delectable glaze. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, forming a smooth and glossy sauce.
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Glazing the Chops: Pour the prepared sauce over the pork chops, ensuring that each chop is generously coated with the tantalizing glaze. Use a spoon to spread the sauce evenly and make sure it covers the chops entirely.
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Baking: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake the pork chops for approximately 1 hour, or until they are tender and cooked through. Halfway through the cooking time, turn the chops over and baste them with the flavorful sauce to infuse them with even more deliciousness.
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Monitoring the Progress: While the pork chops are baking, keep an eye on them occasionally to prevent any burning. If the sauce begins to thicken too much or if the dish appears to be drying out, you can add a little water to maintain the desired consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh lemon slices for a vibrant finishing touch. Serve alongside your favorite sides, such as steamed buttered green beans or creamy mashed potatoes, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 754.9
- Fat Content: 36.1g
- Saturated Fat Content: 11.9g
- Cholesterol Content: 274.6mg
- Sodium Content: 862.4mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 20.5g
- Fiber Content: 0.6g
- Sugar Content: 18.4g
- Protein Content: 83.3g
Tips and Tricks:
- To tenderize the meat further, you can marinate the pork chops in the glaze mixture for a few hours before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius) for optimal doneness.
- Customize the glaze according to your taste preferences by adjusting the amount of brown sugar or adding additional spices such as garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce.
- Leftover glazed pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving for a quick and delicious meal.
Conclusion:
With its tender texture, irresistible glaze, and mouthwatering flavor, Glazed Pork Chops are a true culinary delight that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or served as the centerpiece of a special occasion dinner, this recipe promises to elevate any mealtime experience with its savory goodness. Give it a try and savor the delectable magic of homemade glazed pork chops! ๐ฝ๏ธ๐จโ๐ณ