Pork Chops With Raisin Pine Nut
Tender pork chops are complemented by a sweet raisin and pine nut sauce with subtle aromatics, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal suitable for family dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler.
- Spray a rack in a broiling pan with nonstick spray.
- Arrange the pork chops on the rack and broil 6 inches from the heat until browned and cooked to taste, about 4 or 5 minutes on each side.
- In a 9-inch nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil.
- Add the sliced chopped onions and pine nuts, cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until browned.
- Continue to stir; cook for 1 minute longer.
- Stir in the chicken broth and dry vermouth, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in the raisins, and let simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.
- To serve, arrange the pork chops on a serving dish and top with the raisin pine nut sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have dry vermouth, white wine or even apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute. Consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the sauce for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork chops with a side of sautéed green beans or a simple salad for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Cheesy Chicken Noodle Hot Dish for a comforting family dinner. For added texture, consider serving over a bed of fluffy rice or couscous.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring the pork is heated through without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops With Raisin Pine Nut contains roughly 821 calories, with 11g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), iron (23% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops, but be aware that they may require a longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for golden raisins?
If you don't have golden raisins, you can use regular raisins or dried cranberries for a different flavor profile. The sweetness will still complement the savory elements of the dish.
Is it necessary to use low sodium chicken broth?
Using low sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish, especially since soy sauce or other salty ingredients might be added later. However, regular chicken broth can be used if you prefer a more robust flavor.
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).