Neeley's Smothered Pork Chops
Smothered pork chop and chicken recipes are all over the South. This one came from the Neeleys Celebration cookbook. I think the buttermilk is what makes this my favorite. I kind of adapted the original recipe a little bit to fit my familys tastes.
Smothered pork chop and chicken recipes are all over the South. This one came from the Neeleys Celebration cookbook. I think the buttermilk is what makes this my favorite. I kind of adapted the original recipe a little bit to fit my familys tastes.
- Carbohydrate 42.2127607975727 g
- Cholesterol 599.147500002341 mg
- Fat 124.487433976079 g
- Fiber 0.754915428829254 g
- Protein 157.40652875265 g
- Saturated Fat 34.9661299907325 g
- Serving Size 1 1 chops, 4 serving(s) (917g)
- Sodium 735.785704229236 mg
- Sugar 41.4578453687434 g
- Trans Fat 11.1528294508791 g
- Calories 1952 calories
Step-by-step
- Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the flour, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, and paprika.
- Dredge the chops in the flour mixture on both sides until lightly coated.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and coat with the peanut oil.
- When oil is hot, slip in chops and fry on each side, about five minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove chops from pan and set aside.
- Add onions to pan and saute until fragrant, about a minute.
- Add three tablespoons of the seasoned flour left over from dredging the chops to the skillet and stir with a wooden spoon until it makes a paste.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps.
- Turn up the heat and allow the chicken broth to reduce and thicken, occasionally stirring.
- Once the sauce coats the back of your wooden spoon, pour in the buttermilk.
- Add hot sauce and stir to combine.
- Return the chops to the skillet and simmer for 15 more minutes until the chops are cooked through.
Neeley's Smothered Pork Chops: A Southern Comfort Food Classic
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and comforting meals can feel like a Herculean task. But sometimes, the simplest recipes offer the greatest rewards. This Neeley's Smothered Pork Chops recipe is a testament to that – a dish that’s both quick to make and incredibly satisfying. It's become a staple in my family, a comforting hug on a plate, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, regardless of whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The secret, I think, lies in that tangy buttermilk sauce; it adds a depth of flavor that elevates the pork chops beyond ordinary.
I first encountered this recipe in the Neeley's Celebration cookbook. It immediately struck a chord with me; it felt like a recipe passed down through generations – a classic Southern dish with a homely charm. Of course, being a modern cook, I've adapted it slightly to fit my family’s tastes. I’ve tweaked the seasoning here and there, making it a bit more tailored to our preferences. But the core remains the same: juicy, tender pork chops smothered in a rich, creamy sauce. It's the kind of meal that brings everyone together, the kind of meal that fills your home with warmth and the aroma of good food, effectively banishing any stress from the day. The recipe is easy to follow, even on those crazy days when you’re juggling work, kids, and everything in between. It’s a lifesaver, a delicious testament to the fact that good food doesn't have to be complicated.
The magic of buttermilk: It is not an exaggeration to say that the buttermilk is the heart and soul of this dish. It adds a unique tanginess that cuts through the richness of the pork chops and the savory sauce, creating a beautiful balance of flavors. It's this combination that elevates this recipe from a simple pork chop dinner to a truly memorable meal. The buttermilk also contributes to the incredible tenderness of the pork chops. It seems to magically work its way into the meat, leaving it juicy and succulent, even after simmering in the flavorful sauce. You would be surprised how much of a difference this simple ingredient makes. It’s one of those little secrets that makes all the difference in the world.
A cast iron skillet's contribution: I firmly believe in using a cast iron skillet for this recipe. The heavy-bottomed pan provides even heat distribution, ensuring that the pork chops are perfectly browned on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Plus, there's something incredibly satisfying about the sizzle and crackle of the pork chops hitting the hot oil in the cast iron skillet. It's the sound of culinary magic at work. The skillet also helps create the perfect foundation for that luscious sauce. The browned bits that stick to the bottom of the pan add depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. If you don't own one, I highly recommend investing in a cast iron skillet; it's a kitchen workhorse that will serve you well for years to come.
Beyond the recipe: This dish is more than just a recipe; it's a memory, a feeling, a tradition. It's a taste of home, a reminder of simpler times, and a comforting embrace on a cold night. It’s the kind of dish that evokes strong emotions and happy memories. It’s a dish I make not only for my family but also for friends and guests. It’s a perfect opportunity to gather around the table and share stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food. The recipe is easily adaptable to any occasion. You can dress it up for a special occasion or keep it simple for a casual weeknight dinner. Either way, it’s sure to please everyone.
Serving suggestions: We typically enjoy this dish with a simple side of mashed potatoes, collard greens, or a fresh salad. The creamy sauce goes wonderfully with the fluffy potatoes, while the greens add a healthy contrast. The possibilities are endless, though; feel free to experiment with different sides based on your own preferences. But remember, the star of the show is undoubtedly the succulent pork chops bathed in that delightful buttermilk sauce.
This Neeley's Smothered Pork Chops recipe is more than just a meal; it's an experience. It's a taste of home, a moment of connection, and a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things in life are the most satisfying. I encourage you to give it a try and discover for yourself the magic of this Southern comfort food classic.
