Savory Soprano's Pork Chops with Zesty Vinegar Peppers
Dive into a classic Italian-American dish inspired by the flavors of the Soprano family. These succulent pork chops are pan-seared to perfection, locking in juices while providing a beautiful golden crust. The addition of vibrant pickled peppers brings an electrifying tang that perfectly complements the savory, garlic-infused pork. Ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, bringing the warmth of Italian cuisine to your table.
4
Servings
180
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
pork chops
4 (1 inch thick)
salt
to taste (none)
fresh ground pepper
to taste (none)
garlic
2 cloves (minced)
mild pickled peppers
2 cups (sliced)
pickled pepper juice
2 tablespoons (none)
hot pepperoncini peppers
3-5 (optional)
Instructions
1
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2
While the oil heats, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, then generously season both sides with salt and fresh ground pepper.
3
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Sear the chops for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a rich golden-brown crust.
4
After browning, reduce the heat to medium and scatter the minced garlic around the chops in the skillet.
5
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the pork continue cooking for another 5 to 8 minutes, checking for doneness to ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked.
6
Once the pork chops are cooked through, transfer them to a warm plate to keep them cozy.
7
In the same skillet, add the sliced mild pickled peppers and their juice, along with the optional hot pepperoncini if desired.
8
Stir and cook the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the peppers are heated through and fragrant.
9
Spoon the zesty pepper mixture generously over the warm pork chops to serve, and enjoy immediately.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
2.5g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pork chops are recommended for the Savory Soprano's recipe?
The recipe calls for four pork chops that are 1 inch thick.
How should I prepare the pork chops before cooking?
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and generously season both sides with salt and fresh ground pepper.
What is the first step in cooking the pork chops?
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is shimmering.
How long should I sear the pork chops on each side?
Sear the chops for about 5 minutes on each side until they develop a rich golden-brown crust.
When should I add the garlic to the skillet?
Add the minced garlic after browning the pork chops and reducing the heat to medium.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
This recipe requires 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
Do I need to cover the pan while cooking the meat?
Yes, cover the skillet with a lid and let the pork cook for another 5 to 8 minutes after adding the garlic.
What type of peppers are used in this dish?
The dish uses 2 cups of sliced mild pickled peppers and optional hot pepperoncini peppers.
Is the pickling liquid used in the recipe?
Yes, add 2 tablespoons of the pickled pepper juice to the skillet with the peppers.
How do I prepare the peppers?
The mild pickled peppers should be sliced before being added to the skillet.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add 3 to 5 hot pepperoncini peppers for extra heat.
How long do the peppers need to cook?
Stir and cook the pepper mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until they are heated through and fragrant.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 180 calories.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving provides 20 grams of protein.
What is the fat content for this pork chop dish?
There are 7.5 grams of fat per serving.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, it contains only 2.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What kind of oil is used for searing?
The recipe specifies using 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Should the pork be cold when I put it in the pan?
The recipe suggests patting them dry first, but for the best sear, ensuring they aren't dripping wet is most important.
What should I do with the pork chops once they are cooked through?
Transfer them to a warm plate to keep them cozy while you prepare the pepper sauce.
How is the dish served?
Spoon the zesty pepper mixture generously over the warm pork chops and serve immediately.
What is the inspiration behind this recipe?
It is a classic Italian-American dish inspired by the flavors associated with the Soprano family.
Is this a quick recipe to make?
Yes, with a sear time of 10 minutes and a finish time of 5-8 minutes, it is considered a quick skillet meal.
Can I use bone-in or boneless chops?
The recipe specifies 1-inch thick chops; either can be used, but ensure they reach the proper internal temperature.
Does the recipe include salt and pepper measurements?
Salt and fresh ground pepper are added 'to taste'.
What makes the peppers 'zesty' in this recipe?
The combination of the pickled peppers and the addition of their vinegar-based juice creates the zesty flavor.
Is this dish suitable for a family dinner?
Yes, it is described as an ideal crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special occasions.
What category of cuisine does this fall into?
It is classified as Italian-American comfort food.
Can I substitute the garlic?
While fresh minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor, you could use jarred minced garlic in a pinch.
Should the pepper juice be drained?
No, you should specifically reserve and use 2 tablespoons of the juice to flavor the sauce.