Bourbon Braised Pork Chops

If you’re looking for a flavorful and comforting dish, these Bourbon Braised Pork Chops are just the thing. With a rich sauce made from orange juice, bourbon, and raisins, these pork chops are sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of bourbon, orange juice, and spices creates a deeply flavorful sauce.
• Tender Pork: Braising the pork chops makes them tender and juicy.
• Elegant Presentation: The orange slices and sauce make this dish look as good as it tastes.
• Perfect for Entertaining: This dish is great for dinner parties or special occasions.

• Cuisine Type: American
• Servings: Makes about 4 servings
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 4 pork chops, 1 inch thick
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 4 orange slices
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons corn starch
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 cup hot water
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons bourbon
• 1/4 cup raisins

Directions

1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
   • Combine the flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Dredge the pork chops in the flour mixture, coating both sides.
2. Brown the Pork Chops:
   • Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the pork chops on both sides until golden brown.
3. Add Orange Slices:
   • Place an orange slice on top of each pork chop in the skillet.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, corn starch, and ground allspice. Gradually stir in the hot water.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat.
5. Add Flavor to the Sauce:
   • Stir in the orange juice, bourbon, and raisins into the sauce.
6. Combine and Simmer:
   • Pour the sauce over the pork chops in the skillet. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork chops are tender.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the pork chops hot, with the sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a bit of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the skillet while the pork chops are braising for extra flavor.
• Fruit Addition: Substitute raisins with dried cranberries or apricots for a different twist.

Equipment

• Shallow dish
• Large skillet
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Spatula

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What to Serve with This Recipe

These bourbon braised pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. They also go well with rice or couscous.

Tips

• Even Browning: Make sure the pork chops are evenly browned on both sides before adding the orange slices and sauce.
• Thickening the Sauce: Stir the sauce constantly to prevent lumps and ensure it thickens evenly.
• Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low while simmering to avoid overcooking the pork chops.

FAQ

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops? A: Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but they may cook slightly faster, so check for doneness sooner.

Q: Can I use a different type of alcohol? A: Yes, you can substitute the bourbon with whiskey or brandy for a similar flavor profile.

Q: How do I know when the pork chops are done? A: The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are tender to the touch.

Approximate Nutrition Information

• Calories: 400 kcal per serving
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 40g