Oven-baked pork chop with polenta and garlic sauce

Oven-Baked Pork Chops with Polenta and Garlic Sauce

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of slowly baked pork chops? This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Oven-baked pork chops served with creamy polenta and garlic sauce are a delicious combination that will turn any ordinary meal into a celebration. Let's discover together how to prepare this savory dish, step by step!

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 60-75 minutes
- Total time: 75-90 minutes
- Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 6 pieces of pork chop
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3-4 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 10-12 peppercorns
- 1-2 tablespoons of coriander (fresh or dried, as preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 200 g garlic (for sauce)
- 500 g cornmeal (for polenta)
- Water and salt for polenta

Necessary utensils:
- Baking tray
- Meat mallet
- Marinating bowl
- Large pot for polenta
- Grater or garlic press

A brief history
Pork chop is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, appreciated for its tender texture and versatility in cooking. Combined with polenta, a traditional cornmeal dish, and garlic sauce, it becomes a comforting meal, perfect for colder days or family gatherings.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the chops
Start by washing the pork chops well under cold running water, then let them drain. Use a meat mallet to gently pound them; this will help tenderize the meat and allow the marinade to penetrate better.

2. Marinating
In a bowl, combine the olive oil and soy sauce. Add salt, pepper, and coriander, mixing well. Then, drizzle the chops with this marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 30 minutes to enhance their flavors.

3. Preparing the tray
Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a baking tray, add a few peppercorns and bay leaves. Place the pork chops in the tray, then drizzle with 2-3 tablespoons of oil and 2-3 tablespoons of water. Cover the tray with aluminum foil to retain moisture.

4. Baking the chops
Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the chops bake for about 60-75 minutes, turning them halfway through. Check occasionally if the sauce in the tray is reducing; if necessary, you can add a little water.

5. Preparing the polenta
While the chops are baking, you can prepare the polenta. Boil water in a large pot, adding salt to taste. When the water is boiling, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the polenta for 15-20 minutes until it becomes creamy and thick.

6. Preparing the garlic sauce
For the garlic sauce, peel the garlic and crush it using a garlic press or a fine grater. Mix it with a little water and salt, adjusting the consistency to taste.

Serving
When the chops are ready, remove the tray from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Place the chops on plates alongside the warm polenta, and pour the garlic sauce on top. Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips
- For extra flavor, you can add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade.
- If you want to add a touch of acidity, you can drizzle the chops with lemon juice before serving.
- Polenta can be served with cheese or sour cream for added flavor.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted using chicken or beef. Cooking time will vary depending on the type of meat.

2. How can I reheat the chops?
To reheat the chops, you can use the oven or a skillet, ensuring to add a little water to prevent drying out.

Possible variations
- Add chopped vegetables (carrots, potatoes, or onions) to the tray to bake alongside the chops, creating a complete main dish in one tray.
- Instead of garlic sauce, you can use yogurt sauce with dill for a fresher option.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This pork chop recipe has approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used. Pork chop is an excellent source of protein and B vitamins, while polenta is rich in carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.

Cook with love and joy, and every meal will become an unforgettable experience! This recipe for oven-baked pork chops with polenta and garlic sauce is not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories with loved ones.