This orange-sage pork chops recipe is an enticing fusion of citrusy sweetness and herbal notes. The star of the dish is the flavor-packed sauce, combining fresh sage leaves and orange zest. It transforms the humble pork chop into a gourmet meal that's surprisingly simple to prepare.
The major ingredients for this recipe are easily found in regular supermarkets. However, do pay special attention to the sage leaves and orange zest. Fresh sage leaves are preferable for their robust flavor. You can find them in the produce or herb section. For the orange zest, ensure you have a fresh orange - you'll be using its juice as well.
Ingredients for Orange-Sage Pork Chops
Pork chops: The star of the dish. Choose bone-in or boneless according to your preference.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning the pork chops.
I can't believe it's not butter spread: This will add a rich flavor to the pork chops and sauce.
Cornstarch: To thicken the sauce.
Chicken broth: Adds a savory depth to the sauce.
Orange zest: Adds a bright citrus note to the sauce. Choose organic oranges if possible.
Fresh orange juice: Enhances the citrus flavor in the sauce.
Lemon juice: Gives a tangy note to balance the sweetness of the orange.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
Garlic clove: Brings a punchy, aromatic element to the sauce.
Fresh sage leaves: They give the dish its distinctive herbal flavor.
One reader, Helenka Hargis says:
This orange-sage pork chops recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, and the pork chops turn out so tender and juicy. The citrusy sauce is absolutely divine. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
Essential Techniques for Cooking Orange-Sage Pork Chops
How to season pork chops: Rub the pork chops with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor before cooking.
How to melt butter in a skillet: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until it turns into a liquid consistency.
How to whisk together cornstarch and broth: Combine the cornstarch and a small amount of broth in a bowl, then gradually mix in the remaining broth to create a smooth mixture.
How to sauté garlic: Cook the garlic in a skillet with hot butter or oil until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden in color.
How to simmer a sauce: Allow the sauce to gently bubble at a low heat, stirring frequently, to thicken and develop flavors.
How to spoon sauce over pork chops: Use a spoon to drizzle the prepared sauce over the pork chops, ensuring they are evenly coated before serving.
How To Make Orange-Sage Pork Chops
Experience bright and robust flavors on your pork chops for dinner tonight! These chops are slathered in some tasty sour orange sauce for a newer flavor.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4pork chops½-inch thick, boneless
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3tbspI Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Spread
- 1¼tspcornstarch
- ¼cupchicken brothlow-sodium
- 1tsporange zest
- ¼cupfresh orange juice
- 1½tsplemon juice
- 2tsphoney
- 1garlic cloveminced
- 2tspfresh sage leavesor fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions
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Season pork chops with ½ teaspoon of freshly ground pepper and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
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Melt 2 tablespoons of the I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add pork chops and cook, turning once until cooked through, about 4 minutes per side.
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Transfer to a plate, cover with foil and let rest at least 3 minutes.
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Whisk together 1 tablespoon broth with cornstarch.
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Mix in the remaining 3 tablespoons of broth, orange juice, lemon juice and honey.
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After removing pork chops from skillet, reduce skillet temperature to medium.
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Melt remaining 1 tablespoon I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter in the same skillet.
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Add garlic and saute 20 seconds or until lightly golden.
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Whisk the orange juice mixture once more, then pour it into the skillet while scraping bottom to loosen browned bits.
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Bring mixture to a boil, whisking constantly.
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Reduce the heat slightly and allow to simmer, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute.
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Stir in orange zest and sage.
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Return the pork chops to the skillet, then spoon the sauce over the chops.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 449.04kcal
- Fat: 27.02g
- Saturated Fat: 11.58g
- Trans Fat: 0.53g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.42g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.76g
- Carbohydrates: 7.61g
- Fiber: 0.85g
- Sugar: 4.53g
- Protein: 42.08g
- Cholesterol: 160.66mg
- Sodium: 580.79mg
- Calcium: 70.64mg
- Potassium: 764.06mg
- Iron: 1.81mg
- Vitamin A: 82.77µg
- Vitamin C: 9.88mg
Expert Tip for Perfectly Cooking Pork Chops with Orange and Sage
When cooking the pork chops, it's important to not overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can cause the chops to steam rather than sear, resulting in less flavor. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each chop has enough space to cook properly. Additionally, using a whisk to combine the cornstarch with the broth before adding it to the skillet helps to prevent lumps in your sauce.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pork Chop Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the pork chops the night before to infuse them with flavor, saving time on the day of cooking.
One-pan wonder: Use a large skillet to cook the pork chops and make the sauce in the same pan, minimizing clean-up.
Dual-purpose citrus: Use the same orange for both zest and juice to save time and reduce waste.
Efficient multitasking: While the pork chops are resting, prepare the sauce to streamline the cooking process.
Quick cleanup: Line the skillet with foil before cooking for easy cleanup afterward.
Sharp knife: Use a sharp knife to finely chop the sage leaves and garlic for efficient prep.
Substitute Ingredients For Orange-Sage Pork Chops Recipe
pork chops - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a lean and versatile alternative to pork chops, offering a similar texture and flavor when cooked.
i can't believe it's not butter spread - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter spread, adding a rich flavor and providing a good source of healthy fats.
cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a thickening agent in place of cornstarch, providing a similar consistency in the sauce.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian-friendly alternative to chicken broth, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
orange zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can be used to add a citrusy aroma and flavor, similar to orange zest, but with a slightly different tanginess.
orange juice - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can be used to provide a sweet and fruity flavor, substituting for orange juice in the recipe.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can be used to add a tangy and acidic element, similar to lemon juice, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener, offering a rich and distinct flavor to replace honey in the recipe.
garlic clove - Substitute with shallot: Shallots can be used to add a mild onion flavor, similar to garlic, but with a slightly sweeter and more delicate taste.
fresh sage leaves - Substitute with fresh thyme: Fresh thyme can be used to provide an earthy and aromatic flavor, complementing the dish in a manner similar to sage leaves.
Presentation Tips for Serving Orange-Sage Pork Chops
Elevate the pork chops: Place the pork chops on the plate with a slight overlap, creating a visually appealing arrangement.
Garnish with fresh sage leaves: Carefully place fresh sage leaves on top of the pork chops, adding a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Drizzle the orange-sage sauce: Using a small ladle, drizzle the vibrant orange-sage sauce around the pork chops, ensuring an even distribution and a visually striking presentation.
Add a citrus twist: Garnish the plate with a few curls of orange zest for a touch of elegance and a burst of citrus aroma.
Incorporate a side of roasted vegetables: Serve the pork chops alongside a medley of roasted root vegetables, adding a complementary element to the dish and enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the beauty of simplicity by allowing some negative space on the plate, creating a balanced and sophisticated presentation.
Consider plate geometry: Pay attention to the placement of each element, ensuring a harmonious balance of colors, textures, and shapes on the plate.
Emphasize the sauce: Use a brush to create a bold stroke of the orange-sage sauce on the plate, adding a modern and artistic touch to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pork Chops with Orange and Sage
- Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It typically has low sides and a long handle, making it perfect for cooking pork chops and other meats.
- Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients. It's essential for mixing the orange juice mixture and creating a smooth, well-combined sauce.
- Plate: A plate is a flat, round dish used for serving food. It's necessary for transferring the cooked pork chops and covering them with foil to rest before serving.
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, pureeing, and blending ingredients. While not explicitly used in this recipe, it can be handy for preparing other components of the meal.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a deep bowl used for combining ingredients. It's essential for whisking together the cornstarch, broth, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey to create the flavorful sauce for the pork chops.
- Knife: A knife is a sharp tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients. It's necessary for mincing the garlic and finely chopping the fresh sage leaves to add flavor to the dish.
- Foil: Foil, or aluminum foil, is a thin, pliable sheet of metal used for covering and wrapping food. It's essential for covering the cooked pork chops as they rest, allowing them to retain their juiciness and warmth before serving.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Orange-Sage Pork Chops
- Allow the pork chops to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the pork chops, wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Place the wrapped chops in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze the pork chops for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chops in the refrigerator overnight.
- To reheat the pork chops, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the chops in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them, as they may become tough.
- If you have leftover orange-sage sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a little water or chicken broth to thin the sauce if it has thickened during storage.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Pork Chops
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pork chops in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the pork chops on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meat to become tough.
If you have leftover orange-sage sauce, reheat it separately in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
For a crispy exterior, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the leftover pork chops and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
If you have access to a sous vide machine, place the pork chops in a vacuum-sealed bag and reheat them in a water bath set to 140°F (60°C) for about 45 minutes. This method ensures even heating and maintains the original texture of the meat.
To add extra flavor and moisture, brush the leftover pork chops with a mixture of orange juice, honey, and melted butter before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Consider slicing the leftover pork chops and using them in a stir-fry with vegetables and your favorite sauce for a quick and tasty meal.
Interesting Trivia About Pork Chops and Sage
Pork chops are a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium. They can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet when prepared with minimal added fats and sugars.
Budget-Friendly: Making Orange-Sage Pork Chops at Home
The cost-effectiveness of this orange-sage pork chops recipe is quite high. Pork chops are generally affordable, and the additional ingredients, such as orange juice, sage, and honey, are also reasonably priced. The use of simple and readily available ingredients makes this recipe a great option for a household. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Editor's Opinion on the Flavors of Orange-Sage Pork Chops
This orange-sage pork chops recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The citrusy notes from the orange and lemon juice, along with the aromatic sage, beautifully complement the savory pork chops. The use of cornstarch in the sauce provides a nice thickness, and the touch of honey adds a pleasant sweetness. Overall, this recipe offers a well-balanced and delicious dish that is sure to impress.
Enhance Your Orange-Sage Pork Chops Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Orange-Sage Pork Chops
Why trust this Orange-Sage Pork Chops Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. The pork chops are cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, while the orange-sage sauce adds a burst of citrusy brightness complemented by the earthy aroma of fresh sage. The use of orange juice and lemon juice enhances the dish with a zesty tang, balanced by a touch of sweetness from honey. With careful attention to detail and a harmonious blend of ingredients, this recipe promises to deliver a memorable and delicious meal.
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