Grandmother'S Special Pork Chops
A hearty, flavorful pork chop dish featuring lemon, bell pepper, and tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and those who enjoy tangy, savory flavors with tender meat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet.
- Sprinkle pork chops with salt, pepper, and lemon pepper spice, then dredge in flour.
- Brown the chops on both sides and remove from the skillet.
- Drain grease from the skillet, then return the chops to the skillet.
- Cut lemons into quarters and squeeze juice over the chops.
- Place lemon quarters on top of the chops, along with bell pepper strips and onion rings.
- Add water, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato sauce to cover all ingredients.
- Cover and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the pork chops are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider marinating the pork chops in Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice for a few hours before cooking. If you're out of lemon pepper spice, a mix of black pepper and a little zest from the lemons can work as a substitute. Be sure to dredge the chops thoroughly in flour for a crispier texture when browning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these special pork chops with a side of Country Cabbage Salad for a refreshing crunch. They also pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding some roasted vegetables or a light green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist, covering to steam them gently. Avoid microwaving, as this can dry out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother'S Special Pork Chops contains roughly 1162 calories, with 11g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 104g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1707mg per serving (74% 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 as an alternative. Just be aware that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so monitor their cooking time closely to prevent drying out.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or even a jar of marinara sauce as a substitute. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, as some sauces may be more seasoned than plain tomato sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To create a healthier version, consider using leaner cuts of pork or even a plant-based protein for a vegan option. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of oil used and opt for baking instead of frying the chops to cut down on fat.
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).