Chinatown Chops
A savory Chinese-inspired pork chop dish with fried rice flavors, mushrooms, and soy sauce, ideal for a comforting family dinner with rich, umami flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the pork chops.
- Remove the pork chops and brown one package of fried Rice-A-Roni with butter.
- Stir in hot water, undrained mushrooms, and the contents of the vegetable sauce envelope.
- Place the browned pork chops on top of the rice mixture.
- Sprinkle with soy sauce.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for at least an hour before browning. You can substitute the fried Rice-A-Roni with any flavored rice mix you prefer. If you want to add more vegetables, bell peppers or snap peas can be a great addition to the rice mixture. This dish is reminiscent of other tasty Chinese recipes, making it a versatile meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chinatown Chops with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, pair it with a light soup or consider serving it alongside Ginger Chicken With Ham-Fried Rice for a delightful mix of flavors. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top can add a lovely crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops and rice mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Cover to steam and heat thoroughly, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinatown Chops contains roughly 160 calories, with 4g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2049mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used instead of bone-in chops. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as boneless chops may cook faster. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safety.
What can I substitute for the canned mushrooms?
If you prefer fresh mushrooms, you can use about 1 cup of sliced fresh mushrooms instead of the canned variety. Sauté them with the rice for added flavor and freshness. Alternatively, omit them entirely for a mushroom-free version.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the rice. You could also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the pork chops before serving to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).