Embark on a culinary journey with these succulent pork chops, glazed in a rich dijon herb sauce. The combination of dijon mustard and fresh herbs gives the dish an exquisite tang, while the onion and chicken stock contribute a savory depth. This dish, a blend of rustic and gourmet flavors, promises to be a delightful experience for your palate.
This recipe includes commonplace ingredients such as pork chops, butter, salt, and pepper which are probably already in your kitchen. However, you might need a trip to your local supermarket for a few specific items. Dijon mustard, a tangy French mustard, is a key ingredient in this recipe. It is usually found in the condiments section. Fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley are ideal for enhancing the flavor of the sauce, so be sure to pick those up from the produce section.
Ingredients for Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
Butter: An ingredient that not only gives a creamy texture but also adds a rich flavor to your dish.
Pork Chops: The star of the dish, providing ample protein. The fat in the pork chops helps to keep them juicy and tender.
Salt: An essential seasoning to enhance the flavors of the pork and the sauce.
Ground pepper: Adds a slight heat and depth to the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps to form the base of the sauce.
Chicken stock: Enhances the savory taste in the sauce.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy and creamy element to the sauce, complimenting the savoriness of the pork chops.
Fresh herbs: Adds a fresh and aromatic component to the sauce.
One reader, Hugo Ulmer says:
The pork chops with Dijon herb sauce recipe is a game-changer! The combination of Dijon mustard and fresh herbs creates a burst of flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level. The pork chops were tender and juicy, and the sauce was the perfect finishing touch. I highly recommend trying this recipe!
Techniques Required for Making Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
How to sauté the pork chops: In a large skillet, melt the butter over moderately low heat. Season the pork with salt and pepper, then raise the heat to medium and add the chops to the pan. Sauté for 7 minutes on each side until the chops are browned and cooked to medium. Remove the chops and transfer them to a warm spot.
How to make the dijon herb sauce: After removing the pork chops, add the onion to the pan and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring until soft. Then, add the chicken stock and boil for about 2 to 3 minutes until it reduces to ½ cup. Stir in the dijon mustard, fresh herbs, and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper.
How to serve the pork chops: Place the pork chops on a platter and pour the dijon herb sauce over the meat. Serve and enjoy!
How To Make Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
Spice up your regular pork chops by coating it in a tangy Dijon and herbed sauce! A tasty new flavor to your dinner meal cooked in just 30 minutes.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tspbutter
- 4pork chops,with bone, fat removed, 1-inch thick, trim all visible fat
- ½tspsalt
- ⅛ground pepper,or more, fresh, to taste
- 3tbsponion,chopped
- ¾cupchicken stock,or broth
- 1tbspDijon mustard
- 2tbspfresh herbs,like parsley, chives, chopped
Instructions
-
In a large skillet, melt the butter over moderately low heat.
-
Season the pork with salt and pepper.
-
Raise heat to medium, then add the chops to the pan. Sauté for 7 minutes.
-
Turn and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until the chops are browned and done to medium. Remove the chops, then transfer them in a warm spot.
-
Add the onion to the pan, then cook for about 3 minutes, stirring, until soft. Add the stock, then boil for about 2 to 3 minutes, until it reduces to ½ cup.
-
Stir in the mustard, herbs, and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper.
-
Put the chops on a platter, then pour the sauce over the meat. Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 369.02kcal
- Fat: 19.62g
- Saturated Fat: 6.72g
- Trans Fat: 0.22g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.66g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.53g
- Carbohydrates: 2.64g
- Fiber: 0.35g
- Sugar: 1.08g
- Protein: 42.64g
- Cholesterol: 141.20mg
- Sodium: 508.93mg
- Calcium: 46.46mg
- Potassium: 757.68mg
- Iron: 1.55mg
- Vitamin A: 20.71µg
- Vitamin C: 3.18mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
When sautéing the pork chops, ensure that your pan is hot before adding the meat. This will help to sear the outside, locking in the juices and creating a delicious, caramelized crust. Additionally, when adding the chicken stock to the pan, be sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enhance the taste of your dijon herb sauce.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
Plan ahead: Before starting the recipe, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment to streamline the cooking process.
Prep in advance: Chop, measure, and prepare ingredients ahead of time to minimize last-minute tasks.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook multiple components in a single pot or pan to reduce cleanup time.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors, mandolines, and immersion blenders to expedite prep work.
Batch cooking: Prepare larger quantities of certain components and store them for future use in various recipes.
Opt for simple recipes: Choose straightforward recipes with minimal steps and ingredients to save time and effort.
Follow the recipe: Read through the entire recipe before starting to ensure a clear understanding of the steps and avoid mistakes.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and dishes while cooking to maintain an organized workspace and reduce post-cooking cleanup.
Time management: Use kitchen timers and alarms to stay on track with cooking times and prevent overcooking or burning.
Label and organize: Properly label and organize ingredients in the pantry and fridge to easily locate them when needed.
Substitute Ingredients For Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce Recipe
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the dish, while also adding a different depth of flavor.
pork chops - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be a lean and versatile alternative to pork chops, offering a lighter option for the dish.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor similar to salt, while also providing a depth of richness to the dish.
ground pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the dish, similar to ground pepper.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a delicate touch to the dish.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can offer a lighter and slightly sweeter flavor compared to chicken stock, while still providing a rich base for the sauce.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can provide a similar tangy and slightly textured flavor to the dish, adding depth and complexity to the sauce.
fresh herbs - Substitute with dried herbs: Dried herbs can be used as a substitute for fresh herbs, providing a concentrated flavor and aroma to the dish.
Presenting Pork Chops with a Delightful Dijon Herb Sauce
Elevate the plating: Arrange the pork chops in a visually appealing manner, ensuring they are the focal point of the dish. Use fresh herbs as a garnish to add a pop of color and freshness to the plate.
Incorporate contrasting colors: Pair the pork chops with vibrant, colorful sides such as roasted vegetables or a mixed green salad. This will create a visually stunning presentation that is both appetizing and aesthetically pleasing.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of the dijon herb sauce. Use a squeeze bottle or a small spoon to carefully drizzle the sauce around the pork chops, creating an elegant and refined presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by allowing some empty space on the plate. This will draw attention to the pork chops and the vibrant colors of the accompanying sides, creating a sophisticated and balanced presentation.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish, such as crispy shallots or toasted nuts, to provide a delightful textural contrast to the tender pork chops and smooth dijon herb sauce.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant, fine dining-quality plates and utensils to showcase the dish. The right serving ware can elevate the overall presentation and create a luxurious dining experience for the judges.
Essential Tools for Making Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms that are joined with a pivot, used for gripping and lifting.
- Platter: A large, shallow dish used for serving food.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting.
- Knife: A tool with a cutting edge, used for slicing and chopping ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients.
- Measuring cup: A container used to measure liquid or dry ingredients.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for making sauces and heating liquids.
- Wooden spoon: A spoon made from wood, used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
- To store leftover pork chops with dijon herb sauce, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate the stored pork chops for up to 3-4 days in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically the back of the bottom shelf.
- When ready to reheat, place the pork chops and sauce in a covered dish and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meat to become tough.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the pork chops with dijon herb sauce:
- Place the cooled pork chops and sauce in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
- To thaw frozen pork chops, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow them to thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat the pork chops and sauce as described above.
- Note: Freezing may slightly affect the texture of the pork chops and the consistency of the sauce, but the dish will still be flavorful and enjoyable if stored and reheated properly.
How To Reheat Leftover Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
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. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the exterior. Spoon the reserved dijon herb sauce over the chops before serving.
For a quicker option, reheat the pork chops in the microwave. Place them 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. Reheat the dijon herb sauce separately in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-60 seconds, stirring occasionally.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the pork chops in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan and heat over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. Reheat the dijon herb sauce in a separate saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
For a flavorful twist, slice the leftover pork chops and add them to a stir-fry with your favorite vegetables. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat, add some oil, and stir-fry the vegetables for 2-3 minutes. Add the sliced pork and the dijon herb sauce, and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until everything is heated through.
Create a delicious sandwich using your leftover pork chops. Reheat the chops in the oven or microwave, then slice them thinly. Spread some dijon mustard on a crusty baguette or ciabatta roll, add the sliced pork, and top with your favorite cheese and greens. Grill the sandwich in a panini press or on a skillet until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Interesting Fact About Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
The pork chops with dijon herb sauce recipe is a delicious and easy dish to prepare. It's a great source of protein and can be paired with a variety of side dishes. This recipe is also versatile and can be adjusted to suit different tastes by varying the herbs used in the sauce. Enjoy experimenting with different herb combinations to find your favorite flavor profile!
Is Making Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce Cost-Effective?
This pork chops with dijon herb sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Pork chops are a budget-friendly protein, and the addition of fresh herbs and dijon mustard elevates the flavors without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it an affordable option for a satisfying meal. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of cost and flavor.
Are Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pork chop recipe, while flavorful, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to a few factors:
- The use of butter for cooking adds saturated fat to the dish
- Pork chops, depending on the cut, can be high in fat and calories
- The recipe lacks a significant source of vegetables or fiber
- The sodium content may be elevated due to the addition of salt and the use of chicken stock
However, there are some redeeming qualities, such as the use of lean protein (pork) and the incorporation of fresh herbs, which provide some vitamins and minerals.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Opt for a leaner cut of pork, such as loin chops or tenderloin
- Replace the butter with a healthier cooking oil, like olive oil
- Reduce the amount of added salt or use a low-sodium chicken stock
- Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to increase fiber and nutrient content
- Serve the pork chops with a side of whole grains, like quinoa or brown rice, to add complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
- Use a mixture of Dijon mustard and plain Greek yogurt for the sauce to reduce calories and add a protein boost
By making these adjustments, you can transform this recipe into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still delivers on taste and satisfaction.
Editor's Opinion on the Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce Recipe
The recipe for pork chops with Dijon herb sauce is a classic and elegant dish that combines the rich flavors of pork with the tangy kick of Dijon mustard and the freshness of herbs. The cooking method ensures juicy and tender pork chops, while the sauce adds a delightful depth of flavor. The use of fresh herbs elevates the dish, providing a burst of aromatic and earthy notes. Overall, this recipe is a delightful choice for a special dinner, offering a perfect balance of savory and zesty flavors.
Enhance Your Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce
Why trust this Pork Chops with Dijon Herb Sauce Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience, as it features pork chops cooked to perfection and smothered in a luscious dijon mustard and herb sauce. The combination of savory chicken stock and aromatic fresh herbs elevates the flavors to new heights. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a mouthwatering dish that will surely impress your taste buds. With the careful selection of ingredients and precise cooking instructions, this recipe is a testament to culinary excellence. Embrace the opportunity to savor a delectable meal that promises to tantalize your senses.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!