Chops like in Hateg

Pork Chops like in Hațeg – A Delicious and Hearty Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

I invite you to discover a savory and tempting recipe for pork chops like in Hațeg, a dish that perfectly blends traditional flavors with a play of textures that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is ideal for a family meal or among friends, being a perfect choice for a hearty dinner.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Pork chops prepared in this style are inspired by Romanian culinary traditions, often served on special occasions. The rich taste of pork harmonizes beautifully with fresh vegetables, while the sour cream adds a creamy note, turning this dish into a true feast. I encourage you to be inspired by this recipe and experiment with your favorite flavors and ingredients!

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 kg pork chops
- 50 g smoked bacon (or lard, for added flavor)
- 2 onions
- 2 bell peppers (red and green, for a colorful appearance)
- 2 tomatoes
- 150 ml olive oil (for a more intense flavor)
- Salt (to taste)
- Paprika (sweet or spicy, depending on preferences)
- 100 g sour cream (for a creamy taste)
- A handful of fresh parsley (for decoration and flavor)

Step by Step for a Perfect Result

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by cleaning and washing the vegetables. Chop the onion finely and slice the bell peppers into thin strips. The tomatoes can be cut into slices or cubes, as you prefer.

2. Heat the oil: In a deep skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. It is important to use quality olive oil, as it will influence the final taste of the dish.

3. Sauté the onion and bacon: Add the chopped onion and sliced bacon to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the bacon releases its aroma. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Add the vegetables: Once the onion and bacon are ready, add the sliced bell peppers and tomatoes. Sprinkle salt and paprika to taste. These spices will enhance the flavors and give the dish a delicious taste. Cover the skillet and let the vegetables simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Assemble the dish: In a baking tray, create a bed of sautéed vegetables. Place the pork chops on top of this bed of vegetables. Cover the chops with sour cream, then add another layer of vegetables. This additional layer of vegetables will protect the meat during baking, keeping it juicy.

6. Bake the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray inside. Allow the chops to bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the meat is tender and easily separates from the bone. A good practice is to check the dish occasionally to ensure it doesn't dry out.

7. Finalizing: When the dish is ready, remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. The parsley will not only add a splash of color but will also enrich the dish's aroma.

8. Serving: I advise serving the pork chops alongside a side of mashed potatoes or polenta. A fresh green salad will perfectly complement this dish.

Tips and Advice

- If you want a more intense flavor, you can marinate the chops in olive oil, garlic, and herbs the night before.
- To lighten the dish, you can reduce the amount of bacon or omit it altogether.
- A lighter version of this recipe would be to use chicken instead of pork. The taste will be different, but just as delicious!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 480 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace sour cream with yogurt?
Yes, a lighter option is to use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, the result will be just as tasty.

2. What other vegetables can I use?
You can add zucchini, eggplant, or potatoes, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

Complementary Recipes

This pork chop recipe pairs perfectly with a dry red wine or a light beer. Additionally, a vegetable soup or a summer salad would perfectly complete the meal.

In conclusion, pork chops like in Hațeg are an excellent choice for a meal full of flavor and warmth. I encourage you to let yourself be carried away by the aromas of the ingredients and savor every bite alongside your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!