Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure – a perfect blend of tender, juicy pork chops nestled in a rich, smoky bean stew that will make your taste buds dance! This Italian-inspired recipe is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that combines the heartiness of perfectly cooked pork with the creamy, smoky goodness of cannellini beans. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is your ticket to cooking greatness!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and drain the cannellini beans. Set these aside.
- Season the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Make sure to coat both sides for maximum flavor.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork chops to the pan.
- Cook the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C). Remove the pork chops from the pan and set them aside on a plate, covering them with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and soft.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the drained cannellini beans. Add the remaining smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the stew to cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld together.
- Once the stew is ready, return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the bean mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pork to heat through and absorb some of the flavors from the stew.
- To serve, plate the pork chops and spoon the smoky cannellini bean stew over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach the perfect 145°F (63°C) for optimal juiciness and safety.
- Pan Perfection: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure even heat distribution and beautiful browning on your pork chops.
- Flavor Boost: Toast your smoked paprika briefly in the pan before adding other ingredients to intensify its smoky flavor.
- Resting Matters: Always let your pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain their juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Bean Tip: If you have time, try using dried cannellini beans and soaking them overnight for an even more authentic texture.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a bright, fresh note to this rich, hearty dish.
- Make Ahead: This stew actually tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
