Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, 1 1/2 inch thick
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped apple
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup applesauce
Special Equipment Needed:
- Meat mallet
- Kitchen twine
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, sage, thyme, garlic, onion, celery, apple, chicken broth, and butter until well combined.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each pork chop, being careful not to cut through the other side.
4. Stuff each pork chop with the breadcrumb mixture, using a meat mallet to gently pound the stuffing into the pocket.
5. Tie each pork chop with kitchen twine to keep the stuffing inside.
6. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
7. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the pork chops are cooked through and the stuffing is golden brown.
9. While the pork chops are baking, heat the applesauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
10. Serve the pork chops hot with a spoonful of warm applesauce on top.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 48g
Sodium: 680mg
Sugar: 11g
Fiber: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of breadcrumbs, use crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
- Instead of Parmesan cheese, use grated Romano cheese.
- Instead of fresh herbs, use dried herbs.
- Instead of chicken broth, use vegetable broth or water.
- Instead of applesauce, use cranberry sauce or cherry preserves.
Variations:
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the stuffing mixture for extra crunch.
- Use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in pork chops.
- Stuff the pork chops with a mixture of sausage, apples, and onions for a different flavor profile.
- Top the pork chops with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey for added sweetness.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to tie the pork chops tightly with kitchen twine to prevent the stuffing from falling out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. They should reach 145°F.
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Storage Instructions:
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat, place the pork chops in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the pork chops on a bed of mashed sweet potatoes or roasted root vegetables for a colorful and flavorful presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted root vegetables
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Green beans with almonds
- Garlic roasted broccoli
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the stuffing is too dry, add a little more chicken broth or melted butter to moisten it.
- If the pork chops are overcooked, they will be tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to the correct temperature.
Food Safety Advice:
- Always wash your hands and surfaces thoroughly before and after handling raw meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are cooked to the correct temperature.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Stuffed pork chops have been a popular dish in American cuisine for many years. The addition of applesauce is a classic pairing with pork, adding a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.
Flavor Profiles:
Savory, herbaceous stuffing paired with juicy, tender pork and sweet applesauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a satisfying meal.
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