Description: A timeless classic reimagined! These Country Fried Pork Chops offer a hearty, comforting experience with a crispy, golden-brown exterior giving way to tender, juicy meat. Paired with a creamy, flavorful bacon gravy, this dish is a true celebration of Southern comfort food. Every bite is an exquisite blend of savory flavors and satisfying textures, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for family dinners and special occasions alike.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 3/4 inch thick)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bacon Gravy:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops Begin by placing the pork chops in a shallow dish. Pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring each chop is well-coated. The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat, adding a slight tang that complements the savory flavors. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum tenderness. This marinating period is crucial for achieving moist and flavorful pork chops.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a separate, wide dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix these ingredients thoroughly with a whisk or fork to ensure an even distribution of flavors. This seasoned flour mixture will create the crispy coating that characterizes perfectly fried pork chops.
Step 3: Heat the Vegetable Oil Pour the vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Cast iron skillets are ideal for even heat distribution, but any large skillet will work. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of about 325°F (160°C). You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small amount of flour into it; if the flour sizzles and turns golden brown, the oil is ready. Ensure the oil is hot enough to achieve a crispy coating without making the pork chops greasy.
Step 4: Dredge and Fry the Pork Chops Remove the pork chops from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. One at a time, dredge each pork chop in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres to the meat. Shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping in the hot oil. Carefully place the dredged pork chops into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy pork chops. Fry the pork chops for 4–5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Drain the Pork Chops Once the pork chops are golden brown and cooked through, carefully remove them from the skillet using tongs or a slotted spoon. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step is essential for achieving crispy, non-greasy pork chops.
Step 6: Prepare the Bacon Gravy In the same skillet used to fry the pork chops, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it is crispy and rendered its fat. Remove the crispy bacon from the skillet using a slotted spoon, leaving the bacon fat in the pan. Set the crispy bacon aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 7: Make the Roux Add the butter to the skillet with the bacon fat. Once the butter is melted, stir in the all-purpose flour. Cook the flour and butter mixture, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute, or until it forms a smooth paste known as a roux. Cooking the roux is crucial for thickening the gravy and eliminating any raw flour taste.
Step 8: Create the Gravy Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring to incorporate it smoothly into the roux to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the gravy is smooth and begins to thicken. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the gravy for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 9: Combine and Serve Stir the crispy bacon into the gravy, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired. Spoon the bacon gravy generously over the fried pork chops. Serve immediately and enjoy this classic Southern dish.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy recipe offers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, golden-brown coating of the pork chops provides a delightful contrast to the tender, juicy meat inside. The bacon gravy, rich and creamy, adds a savory depth that perfectly complements the pork. This dish is not only comforting and satisfying but also surprisingly easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe guarantees a delicious and memorable meal that will impress your family and friends.
Serving Suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to soak up the rich bacon gravy.
- Green Beans: Serve with steamed or sautéed green beans for a touch of freshness and color.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds a sweet and summery flavor to the meal.
- Coleslaw: A crisp and tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork chops and gravy.
- Biscuits: Warm, fluffy biscuits are ideal for sopping up any extra gravy.
Tips:
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Temperature Control: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy pork chops. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil and adjust the heat as needed.
- Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture and gravy to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat or extra garlic powder for more flavor.
- Crispy Bacon: To ensure the bacon stays crispy, drain it well on paper towels after cooking. You can also crisp it up in the oven for a more even result.
- Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Estimated, per serving)
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Conclusion
Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the taste of home, the comfort of tradition, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. This recipe is a testament to the simple pleasures of Southern cooking, where humble ingredients are transformed into something truly special. From the crispy pork chops to the creamy bacon gravy, every element of this dish is designed to delight your senses and warm your heart. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and prepare to indulge in a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
- Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
- While boneless pork chops can be used, bone-in pork chops are recommended for this recipe because they tend to be more flavorful and retain moisture better during frying. Boneless chops may cook faster and become drier, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Is there a vegetarian alternative to the bacon gravy?
- Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of the gravy by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of bacon fat. Sauté some diced mushrooms to add a savory, umami flavor that mimics the taste of bacon.
- Can I prepare the pork chops ahead of time?
- Yes, you can dredge the pork chops in the flour mixture ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. However, it’s best to fry them just before serving to ensure they remain crispy.
- What is the best way to keep the pork chops warm while making the gravy?
- To keep the pork chops warm, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place the fried pork chops on a wire rack over a baking sheet and keep them in the warm oven while you prepare the bacon gravy.
- Can I use a different type of milk for the gravy?
- Whole milk is recommended for the creamiest and richest gravy, but you can use other types of milk if you prefer. Two percent milk will work well, but the gravy may not be as thick or flavorful. Avoid using skim milk, as it may result in a thin and watery gravy.
