Springtime Pork Chops with Rhubarb Glaze
Celebrate the arrival of spring with these succulent pork chops, enhanced by a vibrant rhubarb sauce that balances tartness with sweetness. The unique flavors of the 'Strewn Two Vines Merlot' — rich in cherry and plum notes — elevate this dish, making it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings and family dinners. The juicy pork, paired with the seasonal brightness of rhubarb and zesty orange, promises to delight your guests and create memorable moments around the table. With simple preparation and stunning flavors, this recipe ensures an enjoyable cooking experience, whether for a casual meal or a festive occasion.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork chops
4 (1 inch thick (2.5 cm))
Salt
to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
to taste
Vegetable oil
3 tablespoons
Orange juice
3/4 cup
Granulated sugar
2 tablespoons
Chopped rosemary
2 teaspoons
Rhubarb
2 cups (cut into 2 inch pieces (5 cm))
Green onions
12 (cut into 2 inch lengths (5 cm))
Instructions
1
Season the pork chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides, allowing the flavors to absorb.
2
In a large skillet with a lid, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet and brown them for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden crust. Remove the chops from the pan and set them aside, keeping them warm.
4
Pour off any excess fat from the skillet, then add the orange juice, granulated sugar, and chopped rosemary. Use a wooden spoon to stir the mixture and deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits for added flavor.
5
Add the chopped rhubarb to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for 3 minutes, until soft but still holding its shape.
6
Return the browned pork chops to the pan, along with any juices that have accumulated. Add the cut green onions, cover the skillet again, and continue cooking for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until the chops are cooked through and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7
Serve the pork chops drizzled with the rhubarb sauce, garnished with the tender green onions.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this recipe?
The main protein used in this recipe is four pork chops, preferably 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
How thick should the pork chops be for best results?
For this recipe, it is recommended to use pork chops that are 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
What ingredients are used to season the pork chops?
The pork chops are seasoned generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
What type of oil is recommended for browning the meat?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil to brown the pork chops.
How long should I brown the pork chops in the skillet?
Brown the seasoned pork chops for about 4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust.
What is the target internal temperature for the pork chops?
The pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to be considered cooked through.
What liquid is used to deglaze the pan for the rhubarb glaze?
Orange juice is used to deglaze the pan and forms the base of the rhubarb glaze.
What herb is used to flavor the sauce?
Two teaspoons of chopped rosemary are used to add an aromatic flavor to the sauce.
How much sugar is needed for the rhubarb glaze?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar to balance the tartness of the rhubarb.
How should the rhubarb be prepared for this recipe?
The rhubarb should be cut into 2-inch (5 cm) pieces before being added to the skillet.
How long does the rhubarb need to simmer?
The rhubarb should simmer for about 3 minutes until it is soft but still holds its shape.
How many green onions are used and how are they cut?
The recipe uses 12 green onions, which should be cut into 2-inch (5 cm) lengths.
When should I add the green onions to the dish?
Add the green onions when you return the browned pork chops to the skillet for the final 4 to 6 minutes of cooking.
What is the recommended wine pairing for Springtime Pork Chops?
The recommended wine pairing is Strewn Two Vines Merlot, which features cherry and plum notes.
What kind of flavor profile does this dish have?
This dish balances the tartness of seasonal rhubarb with the sweetness of sugar and orange juice.
Is this recipe suitable for a dinner party?
Yes, with its stunning flavors and vibrant presentation, it is a perfect centerpiece for gatherings and family dinners.
What type of equipment is needed to cook the pork chops?
You will need a large skillet with a lid and a wooden spoon for stirring and deglazing.
Should I keep the pork chops warm after browning them?
Yes, once browned, you should remove the chops from the pan and set them aside to keep warm while preparing the sauce.
How much orange juice is required?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of orange juice.
How much rhubarb do I need for the sauce?
You will need 2 cups of rhubarb cut into pieces.
Does the recipe require any specific cooking fat?
Yes, it uses vegetable oil for searing the meat.
Should the skillet be covered during the simmering phase?
Yes, cover the skillet while simmering the rhubarb and while finishing the pork chops.
How should the final dish be served?
Serve the pork chops drizzled with the rhubarb sauce and garnished with the tender green onions.
What should I do with the juices that accumulate while the pork sits?
You should return any accumulated juices back to the pan along with the pork chops for extra flavor.
What region's wine pairing is highlighted?
The recipe highlights an Ontario wine pairing, specifically the Strewn Two Vines Merlot.
Can the rhubarb be overcooked?
The instructions suggest simmering for only 3 minutes to ensure the rhubarb is soft but still holds its shape.
What is the first step in preparing the pork?
The first step is seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and pepper to allow the flavors to absorb.
How do you ensure you get the brown bits off the bottom of the pan?
Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet after adding the liquid to deglaze the pan.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on the ingredient list specifying 4 pork chops, the recipe provides 4 servings.
What season is this dish specifically designed for?
This dish is designed for spring, utilizing seasonal ingredients like fresh rhubarb.