Quick Overview
If you’re searching for a hearty meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, look no further than this delicious country fried pork chop with bacon gravy. This classic dish features tender pork chops coated in a crispy batter and topped with creamy gravy made from savory bacon drippings. It’s a comforting option for family dinners or special occasions. With easy preparation steps and simple ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredient Breakdown
Pork Chops (4 pieces)
For this recipe, use four bone-in or boneless pork chops weighing about 1 inch thick. Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture during cooking while boneless options are easier to handle.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)
One cup of all-purpose flour is essential for creating the crispy coating on the pork chops. The flour creates a protective layer that helps retain moisture and adds texture when fried.
Buttermilk (1 cup)
Using one cup of buttermilk provides both flavor and tenderness to the pork chops. The acidity in buttermilk helps break down proteins in meat for a juicier result while also adding richness.
Eggs (2 large)
Two large eggs act as a binding agent in the batter. They help adhere the flour coating to the pork chops while also contributing to the overall richness of the dish.
Salt (1 teaspoon)
A teaspoon of salt is necessary to enhance the flavors of the dish. It seasons both the meat and the flour mixture, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Black Pepper (1 teaspoon)
One teaspoon of black pepper adds a bit of heat without overpowering other flavors. It complements the richness of the gravy and balances out the dish nicely.
Bacon (6 slices)
Six slices of bacon provide both flavor and fat needed for making the gravy. The drippings create a rich base that infuses each bite with savory goodness.
Milk (2 cups)
Two cups of milk are used to create a creamy consistency for the gravy. Full-fat milk works best for achieving that luscious texture you want in your sauce.
Chicken Broth (1 cup)
Adding one cup of chicken broth enriches the flavor profile of your gravy. It combines beautifully with bacon drippings and milk to create a depth of taste.
Step By step Recipe: Delicious Country Fried Pork Chop with Bacon Gravy
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients on your countertop. Make sure your pork chops are thawed if they were frozen earlier. This step will ensure everything is ready when you start cooking.
Marinate Pork Chops
In a large bowl, combine one cup of buttermilk with two beaten eggs, one teaspoon of salt, and one teaspoon of black pepper. Dip each pork chop into this mixture until fully coated and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in your refrigerator to enhance tenderness and flavor.
Dredge Pork Chops
After marinating, remove each pork chop from the buttermilk mixture and let excess liquid drip off gently. Next, dredge them thoroughly in one cup of all-purpose flour until well coated on both sides to ensure a crispy crust when frying.
Fry Pork Chops
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add enough oil to cover about half an inch deep in your pan. Once hot, carefully place each breaded pork chop into the skillet without overcrowding it. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare Bacon Gravy
In another skillet, cook six slices of chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon pieces from grease but leave rendered fat in the pan; you will need about ¼ cup remaining fat for making gravy.
Make Roux for Gravy
Using the same skillet with bacon drippings still inside it, add three tablespoons of all-purpose flour over medium heat while stirring constantly until it turns golden brown—this should take around 2-3 minutes creating your roux base for gravy.
Add Liquid to Gravy
Gradually whisk in two cups of milk along with one cup of chicken broth into your roux mixture while continuing to stir until smooth without lumps forming; keep whisking until it thickens up—approximately 5-10 minutes depending on desired consistency.
Combine Bacon with Gravy
Stir back in those crispy bacon bits into your creamy gravy mixture just before serving it over your crunchy fried pork chops; mix well so every bite has that delightful smoky flavor throughout!
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve your delicious country fried pork chop topped generously with warm bacon gravy alongside traditional sides like mashed potatoes or collard greens for an authentic southern experience that everyone will love!
Leftovers Storage
Store any leftover fried pork chops in an airtight container placed in your refrigerator within two hours after cooking them. They stay fresh for up to three days but may lose some texture upon reheating; consider using an oven or air fryer rather than microwaving them.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat leftovers effectively without sacrificing quality, place them back into an oven preheated at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes depending on thickness—ensuring maximum crunch returns!
Mistakes to avoid
When cooking a Delicious Country Fried Pork Chop with Bacon Gravy, one common mistake is using the wrong cut of meat. Always choose bone-in pork chops for the best flavor and juiciness. Boneless cuts can dry out quickly during frying. Another mistake is not seasoning adequately; under-seasoned pork chops can taste bland. Make sure to season generously with salt and pepper before cooking. Lastly, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying; this will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chops instead of crispy ones.
Another mistake is not letting the pork chop rest after cooking. Allowing it to rest for at least five minutes helps retain juices. Skipping this step leads to dry meat. Failing to monitor cooking temperature is also problematic; ensure your oil reaches 350°F before frying for that perfect golden crust. Lastly, don’t forget about the gravy! A common error is making it too thick or thin; aim for a smooth consistency that coats a spoon.
Tips and tricks
To achieve an exceptional Delicious Country Fried Pork Chop with Bacon Gravy, begin by brining your pork chops in a saltwater solution for at least two hours. This method adds moisture and enhances flavor, ensuring tender and juicy results. After brining, pat the chops dry using paper towels to help achieve a crispy crust when frying. Use a mixture of flour and cornmeal for breading; this combination provides a delightful crunch while retaining moisture in the meat.
For frying, select an appropriate oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or peanut oil. Heat the oil until it reaches 350°F; use a thermometer to check this accurately. Fry each chop until golden brown on both sides, typically around four to five minutes per side depending on thickness. After removing from oil, place them on a wire rack instead of paper towels; this prevents sogginess by allowing air circulation.
When making the bacon gravy, start by cooking your bacon until crispy in the same skillet used for frying pork chops. This method captures all those flavorful drippings needed for an outstanding gravy base. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth after removing excess fat; scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom. Slowly whisk in flour to thicken your gravy while maintaining a smooth texture.
Suggestions for Delicious Country Fried Pork Chop with Bacon Gravy
For serving your Delicious Country Fried Pork Chop with Bacon Gravy, consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread to complement the rich flavors of the dish. A side of collard greens or green beans can add freshness and balance out the meal’s heaviness, making it more enjoyable overall.
You can also add some pickled vegetables as a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of both the pork and gravy. Consider making homemade pickles or quick-pickled cucumbers for added crunch and brightness on your plate.
If you want to elevate your presentation, garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. This simple touch adds color and freshness while enhancing visual appeal without altering flavor significantly.
Summary
In conclusion, preparing Delicious Country Fried Pork Chops with Bacon Gravy requires attention to detail at every step—from selecting quality meat to ensuring proper seasoning and cooking techniques. Avoid mistakes such as overcrowding pans and skipping resting times for optimal results while utilizing tips like brining and choosing suitable oils will lead you towards success in creating this hearty dish that delights everyone at your table!
Country Fried Pork Chop with Bacon Gravy Recipe
Description
If you’re searching for a hearty meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, look no further than this delicious country fried pork chop with bacon gravy. This classic dish features tender pork chops coated in a crispy batter and topped with creamy gravy made from savory bacon drippings. It’s a comforting option for family dinners or special occasions. With easy preparation steps and simple ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- Pork Chops (4 pieces)
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)
- Buttermilk (1 cup)
- Eggs (2 large)
- Salt (1 teaspoon)
- Black Pepper (1 teaspoon)
- Bacon (6 slices)
- Milk (2 cups)
- Chicken Broth (1 cup)