Get ready to elevate your dinner table with this delightful recipe for Savory Pork Chops with Spicy Mustard Greens and Pears. These tender pork chops are perfectly seasoned, offering a savory bite that pairs harmoniously with the bold, spicy mustard greens. Adding a touch of sweetness, the pears bring a refreshing balance to this dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this recipe is a fusion of flavors that promises to impress.
Steps
- Take the pork chops out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking and season them with salt and black pepper. Set aside to allow them to reach room temperature.
- Remove the stems from the mustard greens and submerge the leaves in water, agitating gently to remove dirt. Rinse twice, drain, and cut into wide ribbons.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add chopped garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the greens and crushed red pepper, cooking until the greens are wilted and tender, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a dish and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the pork chops until the bottom is golden brown, about 3 minutes. Flip, reduce heat to medium, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F, roughly 6 more minutes. Remove from the pan and keep warm.
- Reduce the pan heat to medium-low and place pear wedges in a single layer. Cook until both sides are golden, approximately 2 minutes per side.
- Add orange juice, water, and sliced sage to the pears, stirring to deglaze the pan. Reintroduce the pork chops and any juices back into the pan, cooking for an additional minute before removing from heat.
- Serve the pork chops topped with pears and sauce, accompanied by the mustard greens.
Ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 boneless center-cut pork chops, trimmed of excess fat, approximately 6 ounces each and about 3/4-inch thick
- 1 pound mustard greens (or substitute with spinach or chard)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- 2 large garlic cloves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 1/2 medium firm D’Anjou pears, sliced into 16 wedges
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 4 medium fresh sage leaves, thinly sliced
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1488 kcal | Carbohydrates: 50 g | Protein: 156 g | Fat: 70 g | Saturated Fat: 20 g | Cholesterol: 420 mg | Sodium: 684 mg | Fiber: 16 g | Sugar: 36 g
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of green instead of mustard greens?
- Certainly! You can substitute mustard greens with spinach or chard if you prefer. Each type of green will offer a slightly different flavor profile, so choose according to your taste preferences.
- How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
- To ensure the pork chops are cooked through, use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the side of the chop, reaching the center. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
- Is there a way to reduce the spiciness of the dish?
- Yes, if you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of crushed red pepper to 1/4 teaspoon or adjust it according to your taste.
- What can I do to enhance the flavor of the mustard greens?
- For added depth of flavor, consider sprinkling a little vinegar on the greens before serving. Options like malt, apple cider, or balsamic vinegar can complement the dish nicely.
- Why should I let the pork chops sit at room temperature before cooking?
- Allowing the pork chops to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking helps them cook more evenly, resulting in juicier and more flavorful meat.
Tips
- Prepare the Pork Chops Early: Allow the pork chops to come to room temperature by taking them out of the refrigerator 20-30 minutes before cooking. This will help them cook evenly and result in juicier meat.
- Monitor Cooking Time Closely: Since boneless center cut pork chops cook quickly, keep an eye on them as they approach doneness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F for perfectly cooked chops.
- Wash and Prepare Greens Thoroughly: To ensure your mustard greens are clean, immerse them in a large bowl of water, agitate gently, and lift them out. Repeat this process to remove all sand, and then cut them into wide ribbons for easier cooking.
- Adjust Spice Levels to Taste: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the crushed red pepper to 1/4 teaspoon. Alternatively, for an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a dash of vinegar to the greens before serving.
Equipment
- Instant-read thermometer
- Large nonstick skillet
