Zesty Mexican-style Pork Chops with Corn-Tomato Sauce
Experience a burst of flavors with these Zesty Mexican-style Pork Chops, ideal for family gatherings or a comforting dinner at home. This one-dish meal features juicy center-cut pork chops seared to perfection and then slow-simmered in a vibrant sauce of tomatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic spices. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with fluffy rice and a sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese. Share this delightful recipe with friends and family, and enjoy a taste of Mexico right at your table!
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
canola oil
2 tablespoons (for frying)
center-cut pork loin chops
6 pieces (boneless)
onion
1 medium (minced)
garlic cloves
3-4 (minced)
salt
1 teaspoon
cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon
coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon
paprika
1/2 teaspoon
cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon
canned diced tomatoes
28 ounces (with juice)
frozen corn kernels
2 cups
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
fresh cilantro
2-3 tablespoons (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the canola or olive oil over high heat until shimmering.
2
Carefully add the pork loin chops to the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on one side until browned. Flip the chops, allowing them to brown on the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove the browned chops to a plate and set aside.
3
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced onion and garlic. Sauté the mixture, stirring occasionally for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and fragrant.
4
Stir in the salt, cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika, and cayenne, combining well with the onion and garlic for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
5
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, followed by the frozen corn kernels. Stir the mixture until well combined, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
6
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet partially and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chops are cooked through and tender.
7
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Finish with fresh ground black pepper and stir in the chopped cilantro.
8
Serve the pork chops over a bed of rice, generously spooning the savory tomato and corn sauce on top. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Monterey Jack cheese for a rich, creamy finish.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
40g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is called Zesty Mexican-style Pork Chops with Corn-Tomato Sauce.
What cut of meat is used for this dish?
The recipe calls for six pieces of boneless center-cut pork loin chops.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe uses six pork chops, making it suitable for a family meal.
What is the primary cooking method for the pork?
The pork is first seared on high heat and then slow-simmered in a sauce.
How long should I sear the pork chops?
Sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
What type of oil is recommended for frying?
Canola oil or olive oil can be used.
What vegetables are included in the sauce?
The sauce includes minced onion, garlic, canned diced tomatoes, and frozen corn kernels.
What spices are used to season the dish?
The seasonings include salt, cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe uses 3-4 minced garlic cloves.
Is the corn fresh or frozen?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 cups of frozen corn kernels.
Should I drain the tomatoes?
No, you should use 28 ounces of canned diced tomatoes with their juice.
How long do the pork chops need to simmer?
They should simmer in the sauce for 30-40 minutes until cooked through and tender.
What is the suggested side dish for serving?
It is recommended to serve the pork chops over a bed of fluffy rice.
Does the recipe include cheese?
Grated Monterey Jack cheese is an optional garnish for a rich, creamy finish.
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, it is tagged as spicy and includes cayenne pepper for heat.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are 300 calories per serving.
What is the protein content?
Each serving contains 20g of protein.
How much fat is in this dish?
The dish contains 10g of fat.
What is the carbohydrate count?
There are 40g of carbohydrates per serving.
What type of onion should I use?
One medium onion, minced, is required.
How do I prepare the cilantro?
Use 2-3 tablespoons of fresh cilantro, chopped, to stir in at the end.
Should the skillet be covered during simmering?
Yes, the skillet should be partially covered during the 30-40 minute simmer.
When do I add the spices?
Add the spices after sautéing the onion and garlic, and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast them.
What heat level is used for the onions?
The onions and garlic should be sautéed over medium heat.
How many total ingredients are in the recipe?
There are 13 total ingredients.
Can I use bone-in chops?
The recipe specifies boneless center-cut pork loin chops.
What is the final seasoning step?
Taste the sauce and adjust with fresh ground black pepper and salt if necessary.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, it is categorized as a one-dish meal.
What is the texture of the pork after simmering?
The pork becomes tender after being slow-simmered in the tomato and corn sauce.
How much cayenne pepper is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.