Modenese Pork Chops bring a tasty twist to dinner with juicy pork seasoned beautifully. This dish often features herbs and simple ingredients that shine through!
Honestly, who can resist the smell of pork sizzling away? It instantly makes the kitchen feel cozy and warm. I love serving these with a fresh salad for a complete meal! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for juicy flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner choice, boneless loin chops or even chicken thighs work quite well.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for cooking, but if you’re out, canola or avocado oil are great substitutes. They have high smoke points and won’t change the flavor much.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme shine in this dish. If you can’t find them, try dried herbs at about a third of the amount, or use Italian seasoning for a different twist.
White Wine: I love cooking with dry white wine, but if you don’t have any, chicken broth works just fine. It will keep the dish rich!
Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms are my go-tos, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to use bell peppers or zucchini instead for a veggie boost!
How Do You Ensure Pork Chops Are Juicy and Perfectly Cooked?
Getting juicy pork chops can be tricky, but with a few steps, you’ll nail it every time! Start by patting them dry; this helps create a nice crust when searing.
- Season them well with salt and pepper before cooking. It makes a big difference in flavor.
- When searing, let the heat do its job—don’t fiddle with them too much. Let them develop a good crust.
- Use a meat thermometer! Pull them off the heat at 145°F (63°C) and let them rest for a few minutes to keep the juices in.
These tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked, juicy pork chops every time! Enjoy your cooking experience!
How to Make Modenese Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
For Seasoning:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small carrot, sliced (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll have mouthwatering Modenese Pork Chops ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First things first! Pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. This helps them get a nice crust. Then, generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they have a lovely golden-brown crust. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet. Sauté them for about 1 minute, letting those amazing scents fill your kitchen!
4. Cook the Veggies:
Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and the optional carrot. Cook everything for about 4 minutes until the veggies begin to soften.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to get all those tasty browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes; this will develop the flavor!
6. Finish Cooking the Chops:
Return the pork chops to the pan, lower the heat, cover, and cook for another 5-7 minutes or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re perfectly cooked!
7. Enrich the Sauce:
Before serving, stir in the butter to enrich the sauce. It adds a delicious creaminess! Spoon the herb-filled sauce and veggies over the pork chops.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your beautiful dish with fresh rosemary sprigs. Serve immediately, and enjoy your delightful Modenese Pork Chops with a side of roasted potatoes or a crisp green salad!
Buon Appetito! 😊
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as boneless chops typically cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, chicken broth works wonderfully as a substitute. It will still provide richness to the dish without the alcohol.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep them moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more color and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the vegetables you choose.
