Modenese Pork Chops are juicy and flavorful! These pork chops are cooked perfectly and often served with a tasty sauce that adds a delicious twist to your meal.
Cooking these chops is always a win at my house! They’re great for impressing guests or simply enjoying on a cozy night in. Pair them with mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Thick-cut pork chops are key for juiciness. I prefer bone-in chops for extra flavor. If you want to use boneless, that’s fine too—just make sure they’re thick enough, about an inch.
Olive Oil: This oil adds a nice richness. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and flavor that’s great for cooking.
Herbs: Rosemary and sage bring wonderful flavors. You can swap fresh herbs for dried if needed—just use about a third of what you would for fresh. Thyme could be a nice addition as well!
White Wine: Dry white wine adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, use vegetable broth or chicken stock mixed with a splash of vinegar to mimic the acidity.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds sweetness and balance. If you’re out, red wine vinegar can work in a pinch, but keep the quantity lower since it’s more potent.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Sear Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops creates a flavorful crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the pork. This helps create that golden-brown crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary. This ensures each chop gets the heat it needs to sear properly.
- Leave the chops alone while they cook on each side. This helps develop a nice crust. Aim for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Always let the meat rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, keeping them juicy.
These tips ensure your pork chops will be tender, juicy, and full of flavor! Enjoy every bite! 🍽️
How to Make Modenese Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 thick-cut pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lovely weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper—don’t be shy here, it adds great flavor!
2. Mix the Herb Blend:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and sage. This mix will add delicious herby flavors to your pork.
3. Heat the Oil:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. A hot pan is essential for a perfect sear!
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully add the pork chops to the hot skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. While cooking, sprinkle the garlic-herb mixture over the chops to infuse them with flavor.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
Once both sides are nicely seared, reduce the heat to medium. Pour the white wine and balsamic vinegar into the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add extra flavor to your sauce!
6. Simmer:
Let the liquid simmer and reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes. You’re creating a flavorful pan sauce that will complement the pork perfectly.
7. Add the Butter:
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter until it’s melted and fully incorporated into the sauce. This will give it a rich, velvety texture.
8. Finish Cooking the Pork:
Return the pork chops to the pan, spooning the sauce over them. Allow the chops to rest in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes. This helps them absorb all those wonderful flavors and ensures they’re cooked through.
9. Serve:
Serve the pork chops hot, garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs. Drizzle liberally with the pan sauce. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your mouthwatering Modenese Pork Chops, packed with Italian flavors that make your taste buds sing! Buon Appetito! 🍽️
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and have more flavor due to the bone. Just adjust cooking times accordingly; they may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Wine?
Yes, if you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Add a splash of vinegar to mimic the acidity of the wine, which enhances the overall flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent them from drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead. Just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent. For this recipe, 1 teaspoon of each dried rosemary and sage should work well!