I know I usually bring you one pot meals but this time, I used 3, and you can get away with using only 2 if you grill your pork chops on the grill. But even though I’m using more than one pot here, it’s still an easy meal to prepare and so flavorful. I love all the elements of this dish, and when put together, you got yourself one incredible dinner that your whole family can enjoy, and I think it’s quite healthy too. So let’s get into what makes this dish such a stellar star. We’ve got perfectly cooked, flavorful and tender pork chops bathed in just the perfect amount in butter. Next we’ve got some perfectly cooked veg all spooned on top of rich and flavorful quinoa. Now I know quinoa doesn’t exactly get the best rap when it comes to flavor, but this is Jo Cooks quinoa which means it’s amazing.
What is red quinoa?
I used red quinoa because it’s all I had in my pantry, but any quinoa will work with this recipe. Red quinoa has a bit of a nuttier flavor, a richer taste, and a bit more chew to it when compared to it’s paler cousin. This quinoa can be served with fish or chicken as well, it could really be a meal on its own.
Ingredients
Sauteables – Diced white onion and fresh garlic. Quinoa – Uncooked red quinoa, you can use any kind you like but I prefer red for this dish. Wine – We want a dry white wine like sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio. Spices – Chili powder and smoked paprika are all we need spice wise for this quinoa. Hot sauce – Use whichever brand you prefer, today I used sriracha. Broth – Either beef or chicken but be sure it’s low sodium. Lemon juice – Fresh is always best! From approximately 1 lemon. Olive oil – Something to saute our sauteables in. Veggies – Asparagus and mushrooms chopped up. Pork – Bone in pork chops. Seasoning – Salt and pepper, be sure to season every element of your dish. Butter – We’re placing a pat on top as our chops grill to add flavor and richness. Parsley – Chopped up fresh and sprinkled liberally over top.
How to make grilled pork chops with quinoa
Quinoa
Asparagus and mushrooms
Pork Chops
What temperature is pork safe to eat?
I know that a lot of you may have a fear of undercooked pork. While this was a major issue a few decades ago, standards for pork have increased immensely and these health risks aren’t much to worry about anymore. The standard for fully cooked and safe pork is now 145F. This is wonderful because at the old standard of 170F, pork ended up being incredibly dry and chewy. I highly suggest getting yourself an instant read thermometer! You can use it with any type of meat, breads, oil, etc. It comes in handy almost every day for me. If you prefer cooking your pork more than 145F, that is totally okay. It’s your dinner after all!
Can I make quinoa in the Instant Pot?
You sure can! I love the way that little appliance makes rice and quinoa, you just set it and forget it! Here’s how to make it in a flash but ensure it’s still packed full of flavor. Just follow the recipe above like normal but saute and combine all the quinoa ingredients in your pressure cooker instead! Cook on high pressure for 1 minute before allowing the pressure to release naturally. If you find your quinoa comes out mushy, try reducing the amount of liquid.
Tips for making the best pork chops
Leftovers
Store the pork chops in an airtight container or ziploc bag. Make sure the pork chops have cooled down before storing them. They will last 3-4 days in the fridge or 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat, you can either heat on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 375F. Keep in mind that reheating cooked pork will cause it to dry out and it is best served fresh. Store cooked quinoa and veggies in a sealed container and place in the fridge for 3 – 5 days. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months, be sure it’s properly cooled before placing in the freezer.
Craving more pork? Try these recipes:
Pork Schnitzel Pan Seared Pork Chops With Gravy Pork Carnitas Korean Style Pork Chops Ranch Pork Chops And Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner Honey Mustard Pork Tenderloin Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops Grilled Pork Chops French Onion Pork Chops
