Flavored pork chop and butter puree

Spiced pork chop with buttery mashed potatoes

Who doesn't love a juicy steak, browned on the outside and tender on the inside, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes? This recipe for spiced pork chop with buttery mashed potatoes is a perfect choice for a family dinner or to impress guests. This classic combination is not only nourishing but also extremely satisfying, bringing a touch of comfort in every bite.

Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the pork chop:
- 1 pork chop (approximately 800 g)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 50 g butter (for a richer taste, but you can use olive oil or margarine)
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs of fresh oregano
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water, for baking

For the mashed potatoes:
- 5 medium potatoes (approximately 1 kg), peeled and cut into cubes
- Salt, for boiling
- 50 g butter (or alternatively, olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon of cooking cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Ingredient details

Pork chop: Choose a quality pork chop with a little fat to ensure the meat is juicy. The fat will help flavor and keep the steak moist.

Garlic: Using fresh garlic adds a pleasant aroma, and the garlic will penetrate the meat, enriching the taste.

Herbs: Rosemary, oregano, and thyme not only provide exceptional flavor but also a beautiful appearance to your dish.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the chop:
- Start by preheating the oven to 180°C.
- Use a sharp knife to make a few shallow cuts on the surface of the chop. This will allow the spices to penetrate better.
- With the help of a knife or the tip of a spoon, you can make small incisions and insert halves of garlic cloves into the meat of the chop. This trick will give the meat an intense and savory flavor.

2. Seasoning:
- Season the pork chop with salt and pepper, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Place the sprigs of rosemary, oregano, and thyme over the meat. These herbs are perfectly complementary, bringing a fresh and savory taste.

3. Preparing for the oven:
- Place the chop in a baking dish, add a few tablespoons of olive oil and a little water to create steam during baking.
- Put a few pieces of butter on top of the chop to enhance the flavor and keep the meat juicy.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 30 minutes.

4. Browning the chop:
- After 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and baste the chop with the mixture of oil, butter, and water from the dish.
- Let the chop continue to bake for another 30 minutes on low heat, basting it occasionally. This step will ensure a beautiful and even browning.

5. Preparing the mashed potatoes:
- While the chop is in the oven, place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Boil them until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and transfer them to a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
- Gradually add the butter while continuing to blend until you reach the desired consistency. If you want an even creamier mash, add the cream.

6. Serving:
- Place the mashed potatoes on plates, using a mold for an elegant appearance. You can garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs.
- Slice the pork chop and place it next to the mash. A mixed salad will add a fresh and crunchy contrast, perfectly complementing the meal.

Practical tips

- Variations: If you want to experiment, you can add spices like paprika or cumin to give the chop a different note. You can also replace the butter in the mash with olive oil for a healthier option.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine or a craft beer, which will highlight the flavors of the meat.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes for the mash? Yes, sweet potatoes bring a different flavor and a hint of sweetness.
- How can I tell if the chop is done? Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 70°C.

Nutritional benefits

Pork chop is an excellent source of protein, while potatoes contain complex carbohydrates and fiber. Adding herbs not only enhances flavor but also brings antioxidants and beneficial compounds for health.

A personal note

This recipe reminds me of family meals from childhood, when we all gathered around the table to enjoy delicious dishes. I hope you also have wonderful moments with your loved ones, savoring this simple yet impressive recipe!

In conclusion, spiced pork chop with buttery mashed potatoes is an excellent choice for a tasty and comforting dinner. Don't hesitate to try it and adapt the recipe to your own preferences. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 pork chop, a few tablespoons of olive oil, 50 g butter, water, 2 sprigs of rosemary, 2 sprigs of oregano, 1 sprig of thyme, 3-4 cloves of garlic, salt and pepper, 5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thick, 1 tablespoon of cooking cream.

 Tags:  mashed puree pork chop roast beef potatoes with sour cream buttered potatoes