Vermont Pork Chops
Vermont Pork Chops feature tender, flavorful boneless pork cooked in a sweet and tangy maple sauce, perfect for a hearty, comforting meal with a touch of regional charm.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown pork chops in oil.
- Place chops in a flat baking dish.
- Combine vinegar, chili powder, pepper, maple syrup, water, Worcestershire sauce, and salt over low heat.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the pork chops.
- Cover and bake at 400°F for 45 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Remove chops and place on a warming platter.
- Make a sauce by combining pan juices with flour over low heat.
- Stir until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Serve sauce over the pork chops.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicier result, marinate the pork chops in the sauce for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer a bit more sweetness, consider adding an extra tablespoon of maple syrup. To enhance the flavor, try using apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar. Also, ensure you don't overcrowd the pan when browning to achieve a nice sear.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Vermont Pork Chops with a side of Crazy Cabbage for a crunchy contrast. Mashed potatoes or rice can also complement the dish well, soaking up the delicious sauce. For a refreshing touch, consider a simple salad with Beatrice Griffin's Dutch Lettuce recipe to balance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but be sure to cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vermont Pork Chops contains roughly 963 calories, with 4g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 102g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1199mg per serving (52% 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 in this recipe. They may take a bit longer to cook than boneless chops, so adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
What can I substitute for maple syrup if I don't have any?
If you don't have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute. Both will give a similar sweetness, though the flavor will slightly differ. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste, as these alternatives can be sweeter.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pork chops and sauce ahead of time. Simply marinate the chops and cover them in the sauce, then refrigerate. When ready to cook, let them come to room temperature before baking for best results.
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).