Pork Chops in Balsamic Vinegar and Shallot Sauce
Prepare to indulge in a delightful culinary experience with this recipe for Pork Chops in Balsamic Vinegar and Shallot Sauce, where the robust flavors of tender pork chops harmoniously meld with a rich, sweet-sour sauce crafted from balsamic vinegar and shallots. This dish, which takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal, showcasing the perfect balance between acidity and sweetness that tantalizes the palate.
Recipe Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Pork Chops in Balsamic Vinegar and Shallot Sauce |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Description | A quick yet tasty dish featuring the acidity of balsamic vinegar balanced by the sweetness of shallots. |
| Recipe Category | Pork |
| Keywords | Meat, Very Low Carbs, High Protein, Less than 30 Mins |
Ingredients
To create this flavorful dish that serves four, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Shallots | 4, sliced |
| Chicken broth | ½ cup |
| Dried thyme | ¼ teaspoon |
| Balsamic vinegar | ¼ cup |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Pork chops | 4 (about 1 inch thick) |
Nutritional Information
This dish not only delights the taste buds but also offers a nutritious profile, making it a great choice for health-conscious diners:
| Nutritional Information | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 457 |
| Total Fat | 27.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 144.9 mg |
| Sodium | 234.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 2.5 g |
| Protein | 42.5 g |
Instructions
To prepare your Pork Chops in Balsamic Vinegar and Shallot Sauce, follow these detailed steps:
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is large enough to accommodate the pork chops in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
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Season the Chops: While the oil is heating, generously season both sides of the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring that each chop is well-coated to enhance its natural flavors.
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Cook the Chops: Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the hot pan. Cook them for approximately 5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through, adjusting the time as necessary based on the thickness of the chops. For optimal results, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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Keep Warm: After the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the pan and transfer them to a warm plate. You can tent them with aluminum foil to retain heat while you prepare the sauce.
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Sauté the Shallots: In the same pan used for the pork chops, add the sliced shallots. Sauté them for about one minute, stirring frequently, until they become translucent and fragrant.
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Make the Sauce: Add the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar to the pan with the shallots. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and stir to combine all the flavors. Continue cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and develop a rich flavor.
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Finish the Sauce: Remove the pan from the heat and add the butter. Stir the sauce until the butter has melted completely, and is well incorporated, creating a silky, glossy finish.
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Serve: To serve, pour the warm balsamic vinegar and shallot sauce generously over the pork chops, ensuring each chop is covered with the luscious sauce.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, to create a well-rounded meal.
Indulge in this quick yet luxurious dish that showcases the delightful harmony between the savory pork, sweet shallots, and tangy balsamic vinegar. The simplicity of this recipe, combined with its rich flavors, makes it a perfect choice for any occasion, ensuring that you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Bon appétit!
