Smothered Chops
Smothered chops feature tender pork or lamb cooked with lemon, onion, and green peppers in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for hearty, flavorful meals served with rice or potatoes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chops in a covered skillet.
- Top the chops with lemon slices, sliced onion, green pepper rings, and salt.
- Pour tomato juice over all the ingredients.
- Simmer until the meat is cooked through and tender.
- Serve with rice or mashed potatoes and a tossed salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider marinating the pork chops in lemon juice and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have green peppers, bell peppers or even diced tomatoes can be great substitutes. Make sure to use a heavy skillet to ensure even cooking. For more variety, try serving with sides like Kraut And Pork or Luscious Leftovers(Cold Salad).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the smothered chops over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. A fresh tossed salad or steamed vegetables would complement the dish nicely. For a comforting twist, pair with Baked Pork Chops & Potatoes for a delicious meal that feels like home.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover smothered chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chops in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover and stir occasionally until warmed through, ensuring the meat doesn't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smothered Chops contains roughly 191 calories, with 7g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1703mg 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 chicken instead of pork or lamb?
Yes, chicken can be substituted for pork or lamb in this recipe. Just ensure that the cooking time is adjusted accordingly, as chicken may cook faster. Use bone-in pieces for added flavor and moisture.
What can I do if I don't have tomato juice?
If tomato juice isn't available, you can blend canned tomatoes with a bit of water or use vegetable broth for a lighter option. Adding a splash of vinegar can help mimic the acidity of tomato juice.
How do I know when the meat is cooked through?
To ensure the meat is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for pork. The meat should be tender and juices should run clear when pierced.
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).