There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of crispy fried pork chops swimming in a rich, savory gravy. This Fried Pork Chop Gravy recipe is a true taste of home, a dish that evokes memories of family dinners and Sunday suppers. It’s easier to make than you think, transforming humble ingredients into a truly delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
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For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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For the Gravy:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Gravy:
- Pour off most of the excess oil from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This is what will thicken your gravy.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the gravy begins to thicken.
- Stir in the milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for a few minutes, or until the gravy has reached your desired consistency.
Serving:
- Return the pork chops to the skillet and coat them with the gravy.
- Serve immediately over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops and Gravy:
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when frying the pork chops. This will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy chops instead of crispy ones. Work in batches if necessary.
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in your favorite marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If your gravy is too thick, add a little more milk or broth. If it's too thin, simmer it for a longer time to allow it to reduce.
- For a richer gravy, use chicken stock instead of broth.
Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the gravy for a deeper, umami flavor.
- Spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Add some sauteed mushrooms or onions to the gravy for extra texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This recipe is a simple yet satisfying example of homemade cooking, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. The delicious dish is sure to become a staple in your repertoire of best recipes for healthy meals. Enjoy!