Recipe for Drunken Pork Chops That Melt in Your Mouth

Looking for a succulent, flavorful pork chop recipe that has a delightful twist? Drunken pork chops are the answer!

This dish combines tender pork chops with a rich, savory sauce made from a splash of your favorite alcoholic beverage, usually wine or beer, that elevates the flavors to a whole new level. The alcohol helps to tenderize the meat while infusing it with a slightly sweet, tangy, and aromatic essence.

Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, drunken pork chops make an impressive and comforting meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

This recipe balances the boldness of the marinade and sauce with familiar pantry staples, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. Plus, the sauce is perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

Ready to dive into this delightful dish? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Drunken pork chops are loved for their juicy tenderness and the complex flavors brought out by the alcohol-based sauce. The marinade helps break down the pork, making it melt in your mouth, while the sauce adds a luscious, rich finish to every bite.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile – you can use red or white wine, or even beer, depending on your preference.

Another great reason to try this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with many sides, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out other delicious dishes like our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for more inspiration.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 cup dry red wine (or substitute with beer or white wine)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan with lid
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs or spatula
• Serving platter or plates

Instructions

1. Season the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
2. Brown the pork chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the chops from the pan and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
4. Deglaze the pan: Pour in the red wine to deglaze, using a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add broth and mustard: Stir in the chicken broth and Dijon mustard. Mix well to combine, creating a rich sauce base.
6. Return pork chops to the pan: Nestle the pork chops back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a lid.
7. Simmer and cook through: Let the pork chops simmer in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Finish with butter: Remove the pork chops onto a serving platter and keep warm. Stir the butter into the sauce to add richness and glossy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Serve and garnish: Pour the sauce over the pork chops and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, marinate the pork chops in the wine and herbs for 1-2 hours before cooking.

Try substituting the red wine for a dark beer or apple cider for a different flavor profile.

Adding mushrooms to the onion and garlic sauté is a wonderful way to add earthiness to the dish.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the final simmer.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Drunken pork chops pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles, which soak up the luscious sauce perfectly. For a lighter option, serve with steamed green beans or a crisp side salad like our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Consider adding roasted root vegetables or a simple garlic bread to complete the meal. The savory sauce and tender pork chops also work great alongside rice pilaf or even a hearty vegetable stew.

Conclusion

Drunken pork chops are a classic dish that brings together bold flavors and tender, juicy meat in a way that’s sure to delight your taste buds. With a simple ingredient list and easy steps, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all levels yet impressive enough for special occasions.

The combination of wine, garlic, onions, and herbs produces a rich sauce that enhances the pork chops’ natural flavors perfectly.

Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh veggies, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that can quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Don’t forget to experiment with different alcohol bases or add your favorite herbs and veggies to make it your own.

For more tasty meal ideas, check out our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food and 400 Calorie Vegetarian Dinner Recipe Ideas for Healthy Meals.

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