Pork chop with onion and bell pepper

Pork Chop with Onion and Bell Pepper: A Classic Recipe Full of Flavor

Who doesn't love a delicious meal that brings joy around the table? Pork chop with onion and bell pepper is a dish that combines simple yet rich flavors and traditional cooking techniques. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a memorable culinary experience, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 8 boneless pork chop slices (about 1.2 kg in total)
- 1000 g yellow onion
- 2 green bell peppers
- 250 ml semi-dry white wine
- Iodized salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (or other oil of choice)
- Water

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onion and slicing it thinly. Yellow onion is ideal for this recipe due to its natural sweetness, which will intensify during cooking. While handling the onion, clean the bell pepper, removing the seeds and stem, then chop it into small cubes.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of olive oil. Place the skillet over medium heat and let the oil heat up a bit. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and starts to caramelize. Adding a splash of water at the beginning can help release the flavors.

3. Adding the bell pepper: Once the onion is sautéed, add the chopped bell pepper. Continue to cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the bell pepper to maintain its crunchy texture.

4. Preparing the pork chop: While the vegetables are cooking, season the pork chop slices with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is essential as the spices will penetrate the meat, giving it a delicious flavor.

5. Cooking the meat: Place the pork chops in the skillet over the onion and bell pepper mixture. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned. This will add a special flavor to the dish.

6. Adding the liquid: After the chops are browned, pour the semi-dry white wine into the skillet, followed by enough water to cover the meat. The wine not only enhances the flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.

7. Simmering: Cover the skillet with a lid and let the dish simmer over medium heat for about 30 minutes. It is important to keep the skillet partially covered so that the steam helps cook the meat evenly, but not too much water accumulates.

8. Serving: Once the chops are ready, remove them from the skillet and arrange them on a platter. The onion and bell pepper mixture can be used as a garnish, adding a touch of color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of boiled or mashed potatoes, as well as with a fresh seasonal salad.

Useful tips:
- Flavor variations: You can experiment with different types of wine or spices, such as garlic, thyme, or rosemary, to add a personalized touch to the recipe.
- Enriching the dish: If you enjoy more intense flavors, you can add canned tomatoes or olives during the simmering process.
- Other sides: Besides potatoes, this dish also goes well with rice or quinoa for a healthier option.

Nutritional benefits:
Pork chop is an excellent source of protein, essential for tissue repair and a healthy metabolism. Onion provides a significant amount of antioxidants and vitamins, while green bell pepper is rich in vitamin C, contributing to strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of pork?: Yes, the recipe can be adapted with chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.
- How can I make this dish spicier?: You can add hot peppers or spicy seasonings to the vegetable mixture.
- Can the dish be frozen?: Yes, it is possible to freeze the cooked pork chop, but it is best enjoyed fresh to preserve its flavor.

Drink pairings:
This main dish pairs perfectly with a glass of semi-dry white wine, which will complement the flavors of the meat and vegetables. A fresh lemonade or fruit tea can also be excellent choices to accompany the meal.

In conclusion, pork chop with onion and bell pepper is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will surely be appreciated by everyone who sits at your table. Perhaps after trying this recipe, you will want to adapt it with your own variations, thus becoming part of your family's culinary tradition. Enjoy your meal!