Pennsylvania Dutch Pork Chops

Pennsylvania Dutch Pork Chops are a delightful dish that pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of the Pennsylvania Dutch. This recipe, shared by Joyce Brotzman from McVeytown, Pennsylvania, showcases the sweet-and-sour flavors that are beloved in the region. The pork chops are served with traditional accompaniments such as dumplings or spaetzle, red cabbage coleslaw, and applesauce, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.

Made with bone-in pork loin chops, pineapple juice, ketchup, vinegar, honey, ground mustard, and other seasonings, these pork chops are packed with flavor. The dish is baked to perfection, resulting in tender and succulent pork chops with a delectable sweet-and-sour sauce.

With just 25 minutes of preparation and an hour of baking time, you can create a memorable meal that serves six. Pennsylvania Dutch Pork Chops are perfect for gatherings or family dinners when you want to indulge in traditional, hearty home-style cooking.

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 bone-in pork loin chops (¾ inch thick and 8 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup unsweetened pineapple juice
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1½ teaspoons ground mustard
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

PREPARATION:

1. In a large skillet, brown the pork chops in butter over medium heat. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the browned pork chops to an ungreased 13×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the pineapple juice, ketchup, vinegar, honey, ground mustard, and salt. Pour the mixture over the pork chops in the baking dish.
3. Cover the baking dish and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chops reads 160°F. Remove the chops from the baking dish and keep them warm.
4. In a small saucepan, combine the cornstarch and water. Stir in the pan juices from the baking dish. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Serve the sauce with the pork chops.

YIELD: Makes 6 servings

PREP/BAKE TIME: 25 minutes of preparation, 1 hour of baking

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork chops are cooked to the proper temperature. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.
• Serve the Pennsylvania Dutch Pork Chops with traditional sides like dumplings or spaetzle, red cabbage coleslaw, and applesauce to complete the authentic experience.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Add more honey for sweetness or ground mustard for a tangier flavor.
• Keep the pork chops warm by covering them with foil while you prepare the sauce.
• Serve the pork chops with the sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.

TIPS:

• Accompany the Pennsylvania Dutch Pork Chops with a side of buttered noodles or mashed potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Enhance the flavors by marinating the pork chops in the sauce for a few hours or overnight before baking. This will infuse the meat with even more flavor.
• Customize the sauce by adding a pinch of cinnamon or cloves for a hint of warm spice.
• For a lighter version, you can use lean pork chops or remove the excess fat before cooking.
• Leftovers can be enjoyed in sandwiches or used as a topping for salads.

Pennsylvania Dutch Pork Chops are a delicious representation of the culinary heritage of the Pennsylvania Dutch. This recipe, shared by Joyce Brotzman from McVeytown, Pennsylvania, captures the sweet-and-sour flavors that are beloved in the region. The bone-in pork loin chops are baked to perfection and served with a delightful sweet-and-sour sauce.

With just 25 minutes of preparation and an hour of baking time, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that serves six. These pork chops are perfect for family dinners or gatherings, allowing you to indulge in the hearty home-style cooking that the Pennsylvania Dutch are known for.

To complete the authentic experience, serve the Pennsylvania Dutch Pork Chops with traditional sides such as dumplings or spaetzle, red cabbage coleslaw, and applesauce. The combination of flavors and textures will transport you to a world of comfort and nostalgia.

Bring the flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine to your table with this delightful dish. Share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy the warmth and richness of the sweet-and-sour pork chops. Pennsylvania Dutch Pork Chops are a true taste of tradition.