Pork Chops Vera Cruz With Rice
Pork Chops Vera Cruz with rice offers a savory blend of tender pork chops simmered in a flavorful sauce with onions, green pepper, and pimiento, served over fluffy rice. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, combining sweet, tangy, and savory notes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the pork chops in cooking oil in a 10-inch skillet, turning to brown well on both sides.
- Drain off excess fat from the skillet.
- Sprinkle the pork chops with flour, brown sugar, dry mustard, salt, and minced garlic.
- Add sliced onions and white wine to the skillet.
- Cover and cook over low heat until the pork chops are tender, about 1 hour.
- Add water as needed and spoon sauce over the chops several times during cooking.
- While the pork is cooking, prepare the rice according to the package instructions.
- Add chopped green pepper to the pork mixture 15 minutes before the end of cooking.
- Top the pork with chopped pimiento and serve over the cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the pork chops, marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and spices for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have dry white wine, chicken broth can be a great substitute. For a spicier kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños to the dish. Serve with a side of grapefruits or a light Grapefruit Salad With Champagne Dressing for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pork Chops Vera Cruz over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced dinner. This dish also complements well with crusty bread like Cracklin' Pepper Bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside American recipes like Country Pea Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pork Chops Vera Cruz in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop over low heat to prevent the pork from drying out. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help maintain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops Vera Cruz With Rice contains roughly 251 calories, with 12g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1465mg per serving (64% 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, you can use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in ones. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as boneless chops tend to cook faster. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safety.
What can I substitute for rice in this recipe?
If you'd like to substitute rice, consider using quinoa or couscous for a different texture. Both options will absorb the flavors of the sauce well and provide a nutritious alternative.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and sauce ahead of time, then reheat them when ready to serve. This may even enhance the flavors. Just remember to store them properly in the refrigerator until you're ready to enjoy.
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).