Tijuana Pork Chops
Tijuana Pork Chops feature tender pork with a creamy celery soup sauce, complemented by chili powder, garlic salt, chickpeas, and green peppers for a flavorful, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the pork chops, using shortening if necessary.
- Pour off excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the cream of celery soup, chili powder, and garlic salt to the skillet.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add canned chickpeas and green pepper squares to the skillet.
- Cook for an additional 15 minutes or until the pork chops are done, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the pork chops in a mixture of lime juice and cumin before cooking. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce for a different taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using a spicier chili powder. This dish pairs well with sides like rice or cornbread, common in Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tijuana Pork Chops over a bed of rice or alongside warm tortillas to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh salad or sautéed vegetables can complement this dish well. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with Bandito Beans or a side of cornbread for a complete experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, covering with a lid until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on medium power until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tijuana Pork Chops contains roughly 138 calories, with 7g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg per serving (24% 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 bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used for added flavor and moisture. Just ensure that they are cooked thoroughly, as bone-in cuts may require slightly longer cooking times compared to boneless chops.
What can I substitute for chickpeas in this recipe?
If you don't have chickpeas, you can use white beans or black beans as a substitute. They will provide a similar texture and protein content, while also absorbing the flavors of the dish.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make the dish healthier, consider using leaner cuts of pork or reducing the amount of cream soup by mixing it with low-sodium vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, to boost the nutritional value.
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).