Pork chop with thyme and Brussels sprouts

Pork Chop with Thyme and Brussels Sprouts

A delicious and comforting recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, the pork chop with thyme and Brussels sprouts is a dish that combines intense flavors and varied textures. This simple and tasty recipe will transform an ordinary piece of meat into a memorable culinary experience. Let's discover together how to prepare this wonderful dish!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 piece of pork chop (approximately 1.2 kg)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 1 small bell pepper (preferably red or green)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon white flour
- 3 tablespoons sour cream (preferably fatty)
- Fresh thyme (approximately 2-3 sprigs)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Sweet paprika, to taste
- 100 ml sunflower or olive oil
- 400 g Brussels sprouts (frozen or fresh)

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the pork chop well and drying it with a paper towel. This will help achieve a crispy crust when frying. Stuff the chop with thin slices of carrot, creating small openings in the meat. This trick will not only add flavor but also keep the meat juicy.

2. Frying the chop
In a large skillet heated over medium heat, add the oil. Place the chop in the skillet and fry it on all sides for 10-15 minutes until you achieve a golden and crispy crust. Make sure not to rush this step, as good frying is key to juicy meat.

3. Adding the vegetables
Once the chop is fried, add the finely chopped onion, crushed garlic, diced bell pepper, and the remaining sliced carrot. Fry everything together for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This mixture will add a special flavor to your dish.

4. Cooking the sauce
Add the tomato paste, paprika, and flour, mixing well to incorporate the ingredients. Fry the mixture for about 1 minute to develop the flavors. Then, add water until the meat is covered. This sauce will become the delicious base for your chop.

5. Boiling
Cover the skillet and let the chop simmer on low heat for about 40 minutes. Stir occasionally and add water if necessary to prevent sticking. It is important to monitor the meat, ensuring it cooks evenly.

6. Adding the Brussels sprouts
Once the chop is almost cooked, check if it is tender. Add the Brussels sprouts (if using frozen sprouts, there is no need to thaw them beforehand), pepper, finely chopped thyme, and sour cream. Mix well and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the sprouts are cooked but still crunchy.

7. Serving
When everything is ready, serve the pork chop with your favorite side dish, such as rice or mashed potatoes. This dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced lunch or dinner.

Helpful tips

- Choosing the meat: Choose a pork chop with a thin layer of fat, as this will add juiciness and flavor to the dish.
- Thyme: This aromatic herb is not only tasty but also full of antioxidants. You can also use other herbs like rosemary or oregano to vary the flavors.
- Brussels sprouts: If using fresh sprouts, make sure to clean and cut them in half for even cooking. Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes during boiling to make the dish even more nutritious.

Nutritional information

This recipe offers an excellent source of protein from pork, fiber from vegetables, and healthy fats from sour cream. One serving contains approximately 600 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. The combination of meat and vegetables ensures a balanced and nutritious meal.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.

- What are the best side dishes for this dish?
Basmati rice, mashed potatoes, or quinoa are excellent choices that pair perfectly with this dish.

- How can I store leftovers?
The pork chop can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the oven.

This pork chop with thyme and Brussels sprouts recipe is more than just a simple dish; it is an opportunity to enjoy cooking and share wonderful moments with loved ones. Each bite will bring an explosion of flavors and textures, and preparing it will transform an ordinary evening into an unforgettable culinary experience. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 1 piece of pork chop [approx. 1.2 kg] 1 carrot 1 onion 1 small pepper 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon white flour 3 tablespoons sour cream thyme salt pepper paprika 100 ml oil 400g Brussels sprouts [frozen]

 Tags:  meat pig brussels sprouts cymbaler