Pork Chops In Tomato Sauce Recipe

This recipe for succulent pork chops in a rich tomato sauce always hits the spot because it’s quick to whip up and makes me feel like a gourmet chef in my own kitchen. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about the cozy blend of tomatoes, herbs, and tender pork that feels like a hearty, homemade hug.

The way these pork chops soak up flavor in a rich tomato sauce is something I truly enjoy. The combination of garlic, onion, and aromatic herbs like oregano and basil can’t help but create a balanced, and I would say, lunchtime-appropriate dish.

You could certainly serve this for dinner, but I wouldn’t complain if I had it for lunch. And with tomatoes packing so much nutrition inside, I can’t feel guilty for savoring every forkful.

Ingredients

Pork Chops:
High in protein and vitamin B12, these are lean cuts that are very muscle-building.

Olive Oil:
A fat that is loaded with antioxidants and is healthy for the heart, it adds smooth richness to recipes.

Onion:
Provides depth and sweetness; rich in vitamin C; good source of fiber.

Garlic:
Gives delicious depth of flavor and helps to boost immunity with its numerous antimicrobial properties.

Crushed Tomatoes:
Provide antioxidants such as lycopene; they form the basis of a sauce that is rich and tangy.

Tomato Paste:
Tomato flavor in concentrated form; imparts thickness and boosts umami in the sauce.

Dried Oregano:
Imparts down-to-earth, fragrant flavors; reputed to have antibacterial properties.

Dried Basil:
Provides gentle, pleasant aroma; has essential oils that are good for digestion.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Both sides of the pork chops should be seasoned with salt and black pepper.

2. A large skillet should be heated to medium-high, and in it, the olive oil.

3. Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add the onion (chopped) and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until softened.

5. Minced garlic is added to the sautéed onions, and the mixture is cooked for an additional minute—until the fragrance indicates that the dish is ready for the next step.

6. Combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and sugar. Stir well.

7. The pork chops should be returned to the skillet, and nestled in the tomato sauce.

8. Bring the heat down to low, cover, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes. The pork chops should be cooked through and tender when you’re done.

9. Sample the sauce and modify the seasoning with salt and black pepper, if it is required.

10. Ensure that you have finely chopped parsley on hand. Now plate your dish and top it with a generous sprinkle of the parsley.

Equipment Needed

1. Large skillet
2. Measuring spoons
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Wooden spoon or spatula
6. Plate (for setting aside pork chops)
7. Can opener
8. Stove
9. Serving plate or dish

FAQ

• Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?Pork chops that have bones in them can be used, but they might take somewhat longer to cook to the point of being done all the way through.
• What can I substitute for crushed tomatoes?For crushed tomatoes, you might use canned diced tomatoes or fresh tomatoes that have been pureed.
• Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?Absolutely! For added flavor and nutrition, you can incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• How can I make the sauce less acidic?If desired, you can add a little more sugar or a little more cream to help balance the acidity.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
• What other herbs can I use in place of oregano and basil?You could attempt using Italian seasoning, thyme, or rosemary as substitutes that impart a different flavor profile.
• Is there a way to make this dish spicy?For added heat, include red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when you are sautéing the garlic and onion.

Substitutions and Variations

To replace olive oil, use vegetable oil or avocado oil.
To replace onion in a recipe, use shallots or leeks instead.
Use garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon per clove) or shallots in place of garlic.
To replace crushed tomatoes, use fresh tomatoes (approximately 4 medium, crushed) or purée in a 14.5-ounce can.
If you do not have dried oregano on hand, you can use Italian seasoning or thyme in its place.

Pro Tips

1. Sear Effectively To achieve a proper sear on the pork chops, ensure the skillet and olive oil are fully heated before adding the pork. This will help lock in juices and enhance flavor.

2. Deglaze the Pan After removing the pork chops, consider deglazing the skillet with a splash of chicken stock or white wine before adding the onions. This will loosen any flavorful browned bits from searing, enriching your sauce.

3. Layer Flavors For extra depth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic to introduce a subtle heat to the sauce. Alternatively, a splash of balsamic vinegar when you add the tomatoes can add a tangy complexity.

4. Infuse Herbs Instead of adding all the dried oregano and basil at once, reserve a small portion to add towards the end of cooking. This preserves some of their fresh herbal notes.

5. Rest Before Serving Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the meat remains tender and flavorful when served.