Smothered Pork Chops

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

1. In a large skillet or pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork chops and sear them for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned. This step helps lock in flavor and ensures a crispy texture.
3. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Onion and Garlic Gravy

1. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and sliced onions. Sauté the onions over medium heat until they are soft and caramelized, which should take about 10 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic to the onions and sauté for another minute, or until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of flour over the onions and garlic. Stir to combine, and cook for another 2 minutes to remove the raw taste of the flour.
4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to create a smooth and thick gravy.
5. Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, ensuring they are nestled in the gravy.

Step 4: Simmer and Smother

1. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows the pork chops to become tender and soak up the flavors of the gravy.
2. Periodically check and flip the pork chops to ensure they cook evenly and are fully smothered in the gravy.

Step 5: Serve and garnish

1. Once the pork chops are cooked through and tender and the gravy is thick and savory, it’s time to serve.
2. You can garnish your Smothered Pork Chops with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Step 6: Enjoy!

1. Serve your smothered pork chops hot, over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of your choice.
2. Spoon some of the delicious onion and garlic gravy over the chops and dig in. This Southern classic is a delightful indulgence.

Notes:

• The level of red pepper, salt, and black pepper can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer it spicier, add more red pepper; for a saltier flavor, increase the salt.
• If your pork chops are very thick, they may take a bit longer to cook, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.
• Smothered Pork Chops are often served with sides like collard greens, cornbread, or mashed potatoes for a truly Southern meal.

Comfort food is best summed up as smothered pork chops, a beloved dish in the South. Smothered in a thick stew of onions and garlic, these soft, aromatic chops make a delightful and filling supper choice. You’ll be itching for more of this dish, whether you’re wanting comfort food or a taste of the South.