Pork Chop with Pineapple and Dried Plums

Pork Chop with Pineapple and Dried Plums - A Delicacy for a Family Dinner

I propose a special recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress dear friends. The pork chop with pineapple and dried plums combines the juiciness of the meat with the sweetness of the fruits, creating a dish that will surely become a favorite. Let's start the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1.5 kg pork chop
- 250 g fresh pineapple (half of a medium pineapple)
- 150 g pitted dried plums
- 100 g sliced bacon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 large onion
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 dl white wine
- 1 dl olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon

A Bit of History

The dish of pork chop stuffed with fruits is a classic combination that has been appreciated over time in various cultures. The sweet fruits perfectly accompany the meat, bringing an interesting contrast of textures and flavors. It is a dish that brings the family together around the table, having the power to transform an ordinary dinner into a memorable feast.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Chop

Start by cutting the pork chop in half, creating a wide and thick chop. Make sure to cut carefully to form a pocket where you will add the filling. This step is essential to keep the meat juicy.

Step 2: The Filling

Peel the half pineapple and cut it into cubes. These will add a tropical note to the dish. Choose pitted dried plums, preferably, and cut them in half. They not only enrich the flavor but also add a pleasant texture.

Step 3: Assembling the Chop

Fill the pocket of the chop with pieces of pineapple and plums. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly. If you want a more decorative look, keep a few plums to use for garnish.

Step 4: Attempting to Close the Chop

Carefully close the chop and tie it with kitchen twine to hold it together during baking. This step is important to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.

Step 5: Seasoning

Season the chop with salt, pepper, and paprika, to taste. Then drizzle it with olive oil and lemon juice. Add the fresh thyme leaves, which will bring an irresistible aroma.

Step 6: Preparing the Vegetables

Cut the onion into thick wedges and, along with the garlic cloves (some crushed, others halved), place them on top of the chop. These will contribute to the flavor of the sauce.

Step 7: Cooking

Pour the white wine into the tray, cover with aluminum foil, and place the tray in a preheated oven at 200°C. Let the chop bake for about 45 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce formed in the tray. This will help maintain moisture and enhance the flavors.

Serving and Suggestions

Once the chop is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice is juicy.

I recommend serving the chop with fluffy white rice and a fresh green salad. This combination will add a perfect contrast, balancing the sweetness of the chop.

For dessert, nothing compares to a creamy Banana Split, which will perfectly complement this dinner. A wonderful idea is to prepare vanilla or strawberry ice cream alongside banana slices and delicious toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, you can substitute the pork chop with chicken breast, but the cooking time will be reduced.

2. What other fruits can I add?
You can experiment with peaches or fresh plums, depending on the season.

3. How can I make the chop crispier?
At the end of baking, remove the aluminum foil and let the chop brown for 10 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork chop is an excellent source of protein, while pineapple provides a good dose of vitamin C and antioxidants, and dried plums are rich in fiber and can contribute to digestive health. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Conclusion

Pork chop with pineapple and dried plums is a recipe that blends tradition with innovation, offering an explosion of flavors and textures. So, don't hesitate to try it at your next family dinner. It will surely become a favorite dish, and the memories created around the table will be priceless. Enjoy your meal!