Oven-baked pork chop with mushrooms

Pork Chop with Mushrooms in the Oven – a Tasty and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 65 minutes
Total: 80 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the kitchen, dear cooking enthusiast! Today, I invite you to prepare a pork chop with mushrooms in the oven, a savory dish perfect for a family dinner or to impress your guests. This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork with the delicate texture of mushrooms and the sweet taste of bell pepper, resulting in a dish that is sure to become a favorite.

A Brief History
Pork chop is a versatile ingredient used in many culinary cultures. When baked, it becomes tender and juicy, and the combination with mushrooms and vegetables adds extra flavor. This recipe has evolved over time, with each region adding its own secret ingredients to give it a unique character.

Ingredients
- 5 slices of boneless pork chop (approximately 700g)
- 2 large onions
- 1 small jar of whole mushrooms (approximately 200g)
- 1/2 bell pepper
- 300g tomatoes in their juice
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or any preferred oil)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 teaspoon butter for greasing the dish

Nutritional Benefits
Pork chop is an excellent source of protein, essential for tissue development and repair. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, contributing to strengthening the immune system, while tomatoes provide important vitamins and minerals. Additionally, this recipe is relatively low in calories, with around 400-500 kcal per serving, depending on the amount of oil used.

Recipe Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cleaning and washing the onions, which you will chop finely. Then, wash the mushrooms and slice them, and remove the seeds from the bell pepper and cut it into strips. These vegetables will add a delicious aroma to the dish.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables
In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes slightly translucent. Then, add the mushrooms and bell pepper strips. Cover the pan with a cup of water and let the vegetables simmer gently.

3. Adding the Tomatoes
Once the mushrooms have softened, add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Let everything simmer for 2 minutes, then remove the pan from the heat and add the sliced garlic.

4. Preparing the Pork Chop
Wash the pork chop slices and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess water. Season them with salt and pepper. Heat a non-stick skillet and brown the chops on both sides for 2-3 minutes until golden.

5. Arranging in the Baking Dish
Grease a heat-resistant dish with butter to prevent sticking. Place half of the mushroom and vegetable mixture at the bottom of the dish, then lay the pork chop slices on top. Cover with the remaining mushroom and vegetable mixture.

6. Baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 55 minutes. This step is essential to retain moisture and ensure even cooking of the meat.

7. Finishing
After the baking time has expired, remove the aluminum foil and leave the dish in the oven for another 10 minutes to achieve a slightly browned crust.

8. Serving
When ready, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, you can serve the pork chop alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. A bottle of white wine or tomato juice would perfectly complement the meal.

Useful Tips
- You can replace canned mushrooms with fresh mushrooms, which will add extra flavor.
- If you prefer a spicy version, add a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes to the mixture.
- This recipe can be adapted using chicken or turkey for a lighter option.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with chicken or turkey, but the baking time may vary.

2. What side dish pairs best?
A creamy mashed potato or a summer salad are excellent side dishes for this recipe.

3. How can I store leftovers?
They can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

In conclusion, this recipe for pork chop with mushrooms in the oven is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavors that will delight your taste buds. I encourage you to try cooking it and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!