Simple Fruit and Cheese Skewers

Savor the taste of the South with these Southern-Style Fried Pork Chops with Country Gravy. Perfectly seasoned and pan-fried to golden perfection, these pork chops are paired with a creamy, homemade gravy that’s rich and flavorful. This classic comfort food dish is sure to become a family favorite, whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a special weekend meal.

Key Information:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Number of servings: 4
• Serving size: 1 pork chop with gravy (approx. 250g)

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 550 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg

Ingredients:

• For the pork chops:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick (approx. 600g)
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt (5g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2.5g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (2.5g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (2.5g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (2.5g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) milk or buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil or lard, for frying

• For the country gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (2.5g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2.5g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (1.2g)
  • Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat

Method of Preparation:

1. Prepare the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. In another dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
2. Bread the pork chops: Dip each pork chop into the flour mixture, coating both sides, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture again. Press the flour onto the pork chops to ensure they are well coated.
3. Fry the pork chops: Heat the vegetable oil or lard in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the pork chops are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Keep them warm.
4. Make the country gravy: In the same skillet, pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the oil, leaving any browned bits in the pan. Add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
5. Finish the gravy: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the gravy is smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve: Serve the fried pork chops hot, with a generous ladle of country gravy over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits for a classic Southern meal.

Tips for Culinary Success:

1. Use bone-in pork chops: Bone-in chops are more flavorful and less likely to dry out during cooking.
2. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the pork chops in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly and stay crispy.
3. Make extra gravy: The gravy is so good you might want extra for your sides, like mashed potatoes or biscuits.
4. Check the oil temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the pork chops to achieve a crispy coating.
5. Rest the pork chops: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

FAQs:

1. Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in chops.
2. What can I substitute for milk in the gravy? You can use half-and-half, heavy cream, or even a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or soy milk for the gravy.
3. Can I bake the pork chops instead of frying? Yes, you can bake the pork chops at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). However, they won't be as crispy as when fried.
4. Is there a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free flour for both the breading and the gravy to make this dish gluten-free.
5. How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftover pork chops and gravy separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, and warm the gravy on the stovetop over low heat.

These Southern-Style Fried Pork Chops with Country Gravy are a celebration of classic comfort food, bringing the rich, savory flavors of the South to your table. With a crispy, golden crust and a creamy, flavorful gravy, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that’s sure to impress and bring warmth to any occasion.