Oven-baked pork chop on a bed of vegetables

Oven-Baked Pork Chops on a Bed of Vegetables

Who doesn't love a savory dish that combines juicy meat with delicious vegetables? Oven-baked pork chops on a bed of vegetables is a simple yet incredibly tasty recipe that can turn an ordinary meal into a feast of flavors. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a wonderful way to bring fresh vegetables to the table, perfectly complementing the meat's flavor.

Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Servings: 5 servings

Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes
- 1 bag of frozen baby carrots (approximately 300 g)
- 3 small red onions
- 5 boneless pork chops
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Sweet paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley leaves (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for a rich taste)

A Bit of History
Oven-baked meat dishes on a bed of vegetables have been loved worldwide over time, being an effective method of cooking food to retain moisture and intensify flavors. This technique not only brings a harmonious combination of tastes but also an appealing presentation on the plate. It is a dish that can be customized in countless ways, depending on individual preferences.

Step by Step: Preparing Oven-Baked Pork Chops

1. Preparing the Pan: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is essential for achieving even baking. Pour a little olive oil into the baking tray, ensuring it is evenly distributed to prevent the vegetables from sticking.

2. Preparing the Vegetables: Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them into rounds about 1 cm thick. These rounds will bake beautifully and absorb the meat's flavors. The red onions should be cut into large pieces, and the baby carrots can be used directly from the bag. Arrange these vegetables in a single layer in the prepared tray.

3. Seasoning the Vegetables: Sprinkle fresh parsley leaves over the vegetables. This will add a fresh and aromatic note. There is no need to season the vegetables with salt or pepper, as their natural flavor will be enhanced by the meat's juices.

4. Preparing the Chops: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. This combination will give the pork chops a special flavor and a tasty crust. Rub each chop with this mixture on both sides.

5. Assembling the Dish: Place the pork chops on top of the vegetables in the tray. Make sure they are evenly distributed to allow for even cooking.

6. Baking: Cover the tray with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for about 1 hour on low heat. This step will allow the meat to tenderize while the vegetables cook slowly. After an hour, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 200°C. Leave the dish in the oven for another 10-15 minutes to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

Practical Tips
- Choosing the Meat: Make sure to choose pork chops with a thin layer of fat, as this will contribute to the meat's juiciness during baking.
- Varied Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to create a colorful and nutrient-rich side dish.
- Garlic Sauce: This recipe benefits from a fresh garlic sauce that will perfectly complement the meat and vegetables' flavors. To prepare it, crush a few garlic cloves, mix them with salt, then add water and olive oil to taste.

Nutritional Benefits
Pork chops are an excellent source of protein, and the vegetables used in this recipe are rich in vitamins and minerals. Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, essential for providing energy, while onions and carrots contribute significant amounts of fiber and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, the recipe can easily be adapted using chicken thighs or breast. Cooking time may vary, so check if the chicken is fully cooked.
- What side dish pairs best? This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes.
- How can I store leftovers? The dish can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Customized Version
If you want to give this dish a twist, you can add a honey mustard sauce over the chops before placing them in the oven. This will add a sweet and tangy note that will make the dish even more delicious.

Serving
Serve the pork chops on a bed of vegetables, garnished with fresh parsley leaves and accompanied by garlic sauce. This combination will not only look wonderful on the table but will also bring a delicious contrast of flavors.

Enjoy this simple and delicious oven-baked pork chop recipe on a bed of vegetables, and transform an ordinary meal into a memorable culinary experience!