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Category: Pork

Spiral Ham in the Slow Cooker

Spiral Ham in the Slow Cooker

Spiral Ham in the Slow Cooker

 

When it’s finished, the meat should be tender and almost falling off the bone, and you’ll have a great cooking liquid that can be sopped up with rice, tortillas, potatoes, bread…or egg noodles tossed with a little salt and sour cream. When the maple syrup and brown sugar, each with its own deep, sulfur-y, molasses-y flavor, combine with the cider vinegar and the mustards, they create a tangy liquid to serve with this ham. I like to think of it as a marinade that comes at the end instead of the beginning. Sign me up! I love to serve a bed of braised cabbage here, too.

 

1 (6- to 7-pound) bone-in, hickory-smoked, uncured fully cooked ham

5 medium parsnips, peeled and halved lengthwise

5 medium carrots, peeled and halved lengthwise

1 cup maple syrup

2 cups unsweetened apple juice

½ cup packed dark brown sugar

½ cup smooth Dijon mustard

½ cup grainy Dijon mustard

2 T. apple cider vinegar

Kosher salt (if needed)

 

Pour 3 cups of water into a 7-quart slow cooker. Add the ham, cut-side up, as well as the parsnips and carrots. Pour the maple syrup and apple juice over the ham, and sprinkle the brown sugar over the top. Cook on high, uncovered, for 30 to 45 minutes, then cover the slow cooker and cook on low until the ham is tender, 3 to 4 hours. Hams vary in size and tenderness, so be patient. When it’s tender, the meat should come off the bone with very little resistance. Taste a small piece for tenderness.  Transfer the ham and vegetables to a deep serving platter (reserve the liquid in the pot). Use a pair of kitchen shears or scissors to cut the slices of ham off the bone and let them fall onto the platter. Stir both kinds of mustard and the vinegar into the cooking liquid left in the slow cooker and taste for seasoning—the sauce may or may not need salt. Pour the liquid over the ham and vegetables, and serve.

Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Spicy Brussels Sprouts

Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Spicy Brussels Sprouts

Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Spicy Brussels Sprouts

 

16–18 Brussels sprouts, ends trimmed, quartered (about 12 oz)

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

2 T. sugar

½ tsp red pepper flakes

½ tsp pumpkin pie spice

Kosher salt, to taste

4 (1½-inch-thick) single-bone pork rib chops (about 2 lb)

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 T. Dijon mustard

1 T. balsamic vinegar

 

Preheat oven to 425°F. Place a heavy-gauge sheet pan on center rack of oven.

In a medium bowl, toss Brussels sprouts, oil, sugar, red pepper flakes, pumpkin pie spice and salt. Season both sides of pork with salt and pepper. Remove sheet pan from oven. Use tongs to arrange pork in a single layer; sprinkle Brussels sprouts around pork (save bowl). Return pan to oven. Reduce heat to 375°F; cook 18–20 minutes or until pork registers 155°F–160°F on a meat thermometer. In same bowl used to mix Brussels sprouts, whisk mustard, vinegar and a splash of water. Drizzle over pork and Brussels sprouts and serve.

Hawaiian Pizza on the Grill

Hawaiian Pizza on the Grill

Hawaiian Pizza on the Grill

 

PAM® Grilling Spray

3/4 cup Manwich® Original Sloppy Joe Sauce (from 15-oz can)

2 plain naan flatbreads (10 inch oval)

1-1/4 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

5 slices thin-sliced smoked ham, chopped (about 1/2 cup)

1/2 cup chopped fresh pineapple

1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper

 

Spray cold grate of gas grill with grilling spray. Preheat grill for medium heat. Spread Sloppy Joe sauce on flatbreads; sprinkle evenly with cheese, ham, pineapple and bell pepper. Grill 5 to 7 minutes or until crust is crisp and cheese is melted. Tips: Grill pizzas on piece of aluminum foil, sprayed with grilling spray, to prevent excessive browning.  If oval shaped flatbreads are not available, substitute four 6-inch pitas

Tangy Sweet Pork Chops

Tangy Sweet Pork Chops

Tangy Sweet Pork Chops

 

1 T. canola oil

6 boneless pork chops, 1/2-inch thick (6 chops = 1-1/2 lbs)

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 cup sliced yellow onion

1 can (15.5 oz each) Manwich {Thick & Chunky} Sloppy Joe Sauce

1/3 cup apricot preserves

3 cups hot cooked long-grain white rice

 

Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, sprinkle pork with pepper. Cook meat 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until lightly browned. Remove from skillet; set aside.  Add onion; cook 2 minutes or until softened. Add Sloppy Joe sauce and apricot preserves; stir to combine. Return meat to skillet. Simmer 5 minutes or until pork is slightly pink in centers (160°F). Serve pork and sauce with rice.

Hurricane Pork Loin

Hurricane Pork Loin

Hurricane Pork Loin

 

1 small pork loin

3-4 strips of good bacon

12 -14 fresh sage leaves

salt, pepper

4 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar

Olive oil

 

1/2 cup white wine

2 tablespoons sour cream

 

Season the pork loin with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a pan where the pork will fit, stretched out. When the oil is rippling sear the loin on each side, about a minute, each. Turn off the heat and turn on the oven to 450’F/220’C. Remove the loin to a board or large plate. Arrange a row of sage leaves on its top side and flip carefully. Arrange more sage leaves on the other side. Now wrap the bacon slices around the loin, trapping the sage leaves between bacon and meat. It will take some coaxing as the leaves on the bottom tend to drop off until trapped. If you have leftover leaves, press them on top of the bacon, on the outside.  Once wrapped, return the loin to the pan, pour the balsamic vinegar over it, and pop it into the hot oven for about 12 minutes, or until the bacon looks cooked and the pork is slightly resistant to a firm finger-poke. Remove and allow the loin to rest for at least five minutes. Put the hot pan on the stovetop again over high heat, and add the wine to deglaze the sticky pan juices, stirring briskly. Lower the heat and add the cream, stirring well.  Care the loin into medium slices and coat with the pan gravy.

Ham & Cheese Quiche

Ham & Cheese Quiche

Ham & Cheese Quiche

 

1 store-bought pie shell in foil pie tin

⅓ pound smoked ham diced

2 medium leeks dark green stalks removed and finely diced

1 ¾ cup coarsely grated Emmentaler cheese or Jarlsberg or Gruyere depending on availability

1 cup coarsely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese or regular parmesan cheese if preferred

1 cup heavy cream

3 large eggs

1 small handful fresh chives chopped

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Salt to taste

 

Bake the pie crust 2-3 minutes less than recommended on pie crust packaging (usually 10-15 minutes). Set aside. Preheat oven to 350℉. In a small pot, add olive oil and leeks. Sauté leeks just until softened, about 2-3 minutes, over medium heat. Use a slotted spoon to remove leeks from pot and place an even layer of leeks on pie crust. Add diced ham on top of leeks in an even layer. Mix grated cheeses together and spread evenly over ham. Whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and salt. Drizzle your egg/cream mixture VERY slowly, in a spiral motion, throughout your quiche. If you pour too quickly, the mixture won’t have time to absorb into the quiche and it will spill over! Use as much of the mixture as possible, until the pie crust is full without spilling over. There may be a bit leftover depending on the exact size of the crust. Sprinkle a generous amount of chives on top of quiche. Bake ham and cheese quiche, uncovered, at 350℉ for 30 minutes. Then loosely cover your quiche with foil and bake for an additional 45 minutes, or until quiche is deep golden brown and egg mixture is set. The total baking time is 1 hour and 15 minutes. Let quiche rest for 10 minutes before slicing!

Crispy Pork Belly Tacos

Crispy Pork Belly Tacos

Crispy Pork Belly Tacos

 

One 2-pound piece of meaty pork belly

1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 cup melted lard or shortening

3 garlic cloves, crushed

1 white onion, coarsely chopped

2 morita chiles or dried chipotle chiles

2 teaspoons kosher salt

 

1/2 pound cherry tomatoes, finely chopped

4 ounces tomatillos—husked, rinsed and finely chopped (about 3/4 cup)

1/2 small red onion, finely chopped

1 chile de árbol, crumbled

1/4 cup Mexican beer

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

Kosher salt

 

1 tablespoon canola oil

Twelve 5-inch Corn Tortillas or fresh corn tortillas, warm

Lime wedges, for serving

 

Preheat the oven to 250°. In a large ovenproof saucepan, combine all of the ingredients and bring to a simmer over moderate heat. Cover, transfer to the oven and braise the pork until very tender, about 3 hours. Transfer the pork to a plate to cool slightly; discard the braising liquid. In a bowl, combine all of the ingredients except the salt. Season with salt and mix well. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the canola oil. Add the pork belly, skin side down, and weigh it down with another heavy skillet. Cook over moderately low heat until golden and crisp, about 10 minutes. Transfer the pork, skin side up, to a cutting board and let cool slightly. Slice across the grain 1/4 inch thick, then halve the slices crosswise. Top each tortilla with a few pieces of pork belly and a little pico de gallo and serve warm.

Panko Crusted Thin Cut Pork Chops with Gratineed Mustard Creamed Onions

Panko Crusted Thin Cut Pork Chops with Gratineed Mustard Creamed Onions

Panko Crusted Thin Cut Pork Chops with Gratineed Mustard Creamed Onions

 

6 to 8 thin cut pork chops, bone

2 eggs

1/4 cup buttermilk

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt

Coarse ground black pepper

1 tablespoon Herbs de Provence

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 cup Panko crumbs or more if required

Vegetable oil

Gratineed Mustard Creamed Onions

Beat eggs with buttermilk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Herbs de Province, and mustard until well combined. Place pork chops into a zip bag and pour in the egg wash. Allow to sit in refrigerator for a minimum half hour before continuing. Remove chops from zip bag leaving as much liquid on them as possible. Coat chops on both sides with panko crumbs, patting down so crumbs adhere. Place on a wire rack over a sheet pan and allow to sit for 15 minutes to set coating before continuing. Place enough oil into a heavy skillet to just cover the bottom and heat over medium high until shimmering. Fry pork chops on both sides for 2 minutes a side until golden brown. Remove to a paper towel to drain. Serves 4.

Gnocchi with Bacon Cream Sauce

Gnocchi with Bacon Cream Sauce

Gnocchi with Bacon Cream Sauce

 

1 lb gnocchi

Water enough to fill a large pot ¾ full

4 strips smoked bacon chopped

2 cloves garlic pressed or minced

2 egg yolks beaten well

¼ cup 59 mL milk or cream

¼ cup 20 g freshly grated parmesan cheese

¼ cup 59 mL chicken broth

½ tablespoon cornstarch

Kosher Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

Chopped parsley and more parmesan to garnish

 

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While bringing the water to a boil, in a medium mixing bowl, mix together egg yolks, milk, and parmesan cheese with a fork or whisk. Set aside. In a large high sided sauté pan or large skillet over medium high heat, cook chopped bacon to desired crispness. At this point, you could remove or keep the rendered bacon fat, it’s entirely up to you. Once done, turn heat to low and add garlic. Stir well, making sure garlic doesn’t burn. Add gnocchi to the water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or as package describes. Drain gnocchi, then add to the pan. Add the egg mixture to the skillet (heat still on low, or turned off) and mix well. In a small bowl, whisk the chicken stock into the cornstarch, then add to the sauce to thicken. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately with parsley and parmesan as garnish.

Corn Dog Nuggets

Corn Dog Nuggets

Corn Dog Nuggets

 

6 hot dogs use your favorite brand

1 cup Bisquick

¼ cup yellow corn meal

1 egg

½ cup milk

2 teaspoons dry ground mustard

¼ teaspoon paprika regular or smoked paprika, either are delicious

⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

1, 17.3 ounce package frozen puff pastry sheets

2 sprigs fresh rosemary diced into very small sections, stems removed

 

Remove one puff pastry from the box (save the other one for the next time you make this) and defrost the pastry, it takes about 40 minutes. Dice hot dogs into small bite-sized portions. You’ll end up using about 8 sections of hot dog in each mini-baking cup. Preheat oven to 400° for a 24-cup mini-muffin baking pan. Spray the muffin cups lightly with Pam or wipe inside each cup with a very small amount of shortening. In a small bowl, combine Bisquick, cornmeal, egg, milk and seasonings. Whisk to combine, then allow to set for a few minutes to thicken while you prepare the puff pastry for the baking sheet. Once pastry is thawed, cut dough into 2 inch squares and press one square into each mini muffin cup – you’ll have just enough dough for a 24 mini-cup baking pan. Place ½ teaspoon of the Bisquick/cornmeal mixture on top of the pastry dough in each mini-baking cup. Then place 6-8 small wedges of diced hot dog on top of the cornmeal mixture, pressing firmly to fit. On top of each cup filled with hot dog pieces, dollop a small amount of additional Bisquick/cornmeal batter (about ¼ teaspoon for each muffin cup). Place the mini-muffin pan in the oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. Once the top of each muffin cup is golden brown and firm, remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the entire baking pan with about 2 tablespoons of finely diced fresh rosemary. The heat from the piping hot baking pan will help infuse the rosemary flavor, without making it overwhelming. Allow the rosemary to sit for a minute or two. Remove corn dog nuggets from the pan and serve immediately with mustard, relish and ketchup for dipping. Notes: This recipe works best with a mini-muffin pan as opposed to a standard-sized muffin pan. The key is to make these bite-sized and a mini-muffin pan is the perfect size for your corn dog nugget appetizer.

Sheet Pan Garlicky Pork Chops with Cauliflower & Pomegranate

Sheet Pan Garlicky Pork Chops with Cauliflower & Pomegranate

Sheet Pan Garlicky Pork Chops with Cauliflower & Pomegranate

 

1/2 T. dark brown sugar

1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more as needed

2 tsp. cumin seeds, divided

1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed

1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste

2 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced

2 bone-in pork chops, about 1 1/2 inches thick (1 3/4 pounds total)

1 large head cauliflower (about 2 pounds), trimmed and cut into bite-size florets

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Fresh cilantro, mint, or parsley leaves and tender stems, torn, for serving

2 T. pomegranate seeds, for serving

Lemon wedges, for serving

 

Heat the oven to 4509F. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, salt, 1 tsp. of the cumin seeds, the ground cumin, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic until it resembles wet sand. Smear the mixture all over the pork and let sit at room temperature while the cauliflower roasts, or in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. On a rimmed sheet pan, toss the cauliflower with the oil and a large pinch each of salt and black pepper. Spread the mixture out into one layer and roast for 15 minutes. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tsp. cumin seeds over the cauliflower and give the florets a stir. Add the pork to the same pan, nestling the chops in with the florets. Roast for 10 minutes. Flip the chops over and give the florets another stir. Continue roasting until the pork is cooked through and the cauliflower is browned and tender, 5 to 10 minutes longer. Transfer the pork to a cutting board and slice the meat off the bones. Serve the pork and cauliflower sprinkled with the herbs and pomegranate seeds, with the lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.

Crispy Ham & Bean Salad

Crispy Ham & Bean Salad

Crispy Ham & Bean Salad

1 C. shaved ham, cut into 1-inch strips

1/3 C. olive oil

2 C. cooked beans, cooled

1 T. each of chopped fresh herbs: dill, tarragon, parsley, and cilantro

1/2 red onion, julienned

1/2 C. croutons (see recipe at right)

11/2 tsp. kosher salt

3/4 tsp. black pepper

Pinch of ground cloves

4 soft-cooked eggs (see page 19), halved lengthwise

 

Place a skillet over medium-high heat; add olive oil and heat until it shimmers. Working in batches, fry shaved ham until crispy. Drain on paper towel. Stir ground cloves into oil and keep warm. In a large serving bowl, combine beans, herbs, red onion, croutons, salt, and pepper. Arrange crispy ham and eggs on top; spoon warm, spiced olive oil over all.

Apple-Glazed Holiday Ham

Apple-Glazed Holiday Ham

Apple-Glazed Holiday Ham

 

1 spiral-sliced fully cooked bone-in ham (7 to 9 lbs.)

½ C. packed brown sugar

½ C. unsweetened applesauce

½ C. unsweetened apple juice

¼ C. maple syrup

¼ C. molasses

1 T. Dijon mustard

Dash ground ginger

Dash ground cinnamon

 

Place the ham on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. Bake, uncovered, at 325° for 2 hours. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining ingredients. Cook and stir over medium heat until heated through. Brush the ham with some glaze; bake for 30-60 minutes longer or until a thermometer reads 140°, brushing occasionally with the remaining glaze.

One Pot Bacon & Egg Spaghetti with Greens and Herbs

One Pot Bacon & Egg Spaghetti with Greens and Herbs

One Pot Bacon & Egg Spaghetti with Greens and Herbs

 

2 large eggs

3 large egg yolks

1/2 C. grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 C. grated pecorino Romano cheese, plus more for serving

1 T. freshly ground black pepper, plus more for serving

1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more as needed

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil

6 ounces bacon, diced

1 medium onion, diced

12 ounces spaghetti

8 ounces (about 8 cups) baby spinach, chopped

1 C. torn fresh basil leaves

1 C. torn fresh parsley leaves and tender stems

 

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, Parmesan, pecorino, pepper, and a pinch of salt. Set aside. In a large sauté pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until the fat renders and the edges crisp, 8 to 10 minutes. Add the onion to the pan and raise the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is golden brown and soft, 5 to 7 minutes. If the spaghetti won’t lie flat in the skillet, break it in half. Add it to the pan along with 41 2 3 4 5/4 C. of water and 1 tsp. of the salt. Cook, uncovered, stirring and tossing the pasta frequently, until it is cooked through but still al dente, 12 to 14 minutes. If the skillet dries out before the pasta is cooked through, add a little water. The pan should stay moist; having a bit of extra pasta water in the pan will make for a creamier, silkier carbonara sauce. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the egg-cheese mixture, tossing well. Add the spinach, in batches as it begins to wilt, the basil, parsley, and remaining ¥2 tsp. salt and energetically toss until everything is well incorporated. Cover the pan for 2 minutes to allow the spinach to fully cook. Uncover and toss again.  Serve immediately, sprinkled with pecorino and pepper.

Texas Toast Stuffed Pork Chops

Texas Toast Stuffed Pork Chops

Texas Toast Stuffed Pork Chops

 

2 pieces Texas Toast

Salt and black pepper

3 T. olive oil, divided

4 sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped

1/4 C. grated parmesan cheese

4 boneless pork chops, 1 to 1 ¼” thick

1/2 C. chopped onions

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 T. chopped parsley

1/2 C. chicken stock

 

Bake toast according to package directions. Cool. Cut each toast into 1″ pieces. Lower oven temperature to 350° F. Cut a pocket into meaty side of each chop. Place chops on a tray and season with salt and pepper. Place onions and 1 T. oil in a medium microwave proof bowl, cover and microwave 1 minute or until onions are tender. Add a pinch each salt and pepper, the pieces of toast and remaining ingredients and mix to incorporate. Divide stuffing and fill cavity of each pork chop. Thread one or two toothpicks along cut side of chops to seal in stuffing. Heat 2 T. oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-to-high heat. Add chops and brown each side. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until chops are thoroughly cooked and reach 160° F. Remove toothpicks and serve.

Sauteed Tatsoi with Pork Belly

Sauteed Tatsoi with Pork Belly

Sauteed Tatsoi with Pork Belly

 

2 T. tamari soy sauce

1/4 tsp. rice vinegar

2 tsp. brown sugar

2 tsp. pure lime juice

2 tsp. ginger, minced

1/4 tsp. ground red chile

1 pound uncured pork belly, cubed

1 T. sesame oil, divided

2 small bunches of tatsoi

1–2 tsp. hulled sesame seeds, toasted

 

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, lime juice, ginger, and chile. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tsp. sesame oil. Add pork belly; salt to taste; and cook until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside. Add remaining sesame oil and tatsoi to skillet; once wilted, add sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low, and cook until sauce slightly thickens. Divide greens on plates. Top with pork belly. Drizzle with remaining sauce from pan, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Suon Ram Man (Caramelized Pork Ribs)

Suon Ram Man (Caramelized Pork Ribs)

Suon Ram Man (Caramelized Pork Ribs)

 

2 pounds baby-back or pork spare ribs, cut into small 1- to 1 1/2 inch cubes

1 T. minced garlic

1 T. kosher salt

1 tsp. ground black pepper

4 T. sugar

3 T. fish sauce

1/2 C. coconut juice

Black pepper, chopped green onions and chopped cilantro, for garnish

 

Bring a small pot of water to a boil and boil the ribs for 2 or 3 minutes to remove impurities. Place the ribs into a colander, rinse thoroughly and drain. Season the ribs with the garlic, shallots, salt and ground pepper then set aside to marinate for 30 minutes. Heat a nonstick wok over medium heat, then add the sugar to evenly coat the bottom of wok. Wait patiently as the sugar melts and turns into a caramel color. Add the fish sauce and ribs to the wok and stir until the sugar coats all of the ribs evenly—about 5 minutes. Add the coconut juice and cover. Let the ribs simmer, covered, over medium-low heat for 20 minutes while occasionally stirring. Remove the lid and continue to stir for an additional 15 to 20 minutes over medium heat, or until the liquid reduces by half. Adjust with additional sugar or fish sauce, as needed. Remove from the heat, pour into a serving dish and garnish with the green onions, cilantro and a pinch of ground pepper. Serve with steamed jasmine rice.

Ham Salad

Ham Salad

Ham Salad

 

1 pound ham, cubed

1 C. yellow onion, diced

1/2 C. sweet pickle relish

1/4 C. spicy brown mustard

1 C. mayonnaise

3 hardboiled eggs, chopped

2 tsp. pepper

2 tsp. hot sauce

2 tsp. fish sauce

 

Add ham to a food processor and pulse quickly to breakdown. Transfer to large mixing bowl. Add remaining ingredients and gently fold together until evenly mixed.

Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Asparagus and Fennel

Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Asparagus and Fennel

Sheet Pan Pork Chops with Asparagus and Fennel

 

2 bulbs fennel, bulbs trimmed and cut into 1-inch wedges, plus a few fronds for serving

1 lemon

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

4 (1- to 1 1/2-inch-thick) boneless pork loin chops

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

About 1 ounce Parmesan cheese

 

Place a sheet pan on the middle rack of the oven. Set the other oven rack in the position closest to the broiler. Heat the oven to 450 degrees. While the oven is heating, place the fennel wedges in a medium bowl. Zest the lemon over the fennel. Add 1 T. oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Use 1 T. olive oil to lightly coat the sides of the chops. When the oven is hot, carefully remove the sheet pan and add the fennel. Spread in an even layer. (Reserve the bowl.) Nestle the pork chops in the fennel. Bake on the middle rack for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, in the reserved bowl, toss the asparagus with the final T. olive oil and season with salt and pepper. When the 15-minute timer is up, remove the sheet pan and switch the oven to broil. Spread the asparagus over the fennel. Return to the oven on the top rack and cook until the vegetables are lightly charred and the pork is browned and registers 145 degrees with an instant-read thermometer, about 5 minutes. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the pork and vegetables. Use a vegetable peeler to shave Parmesan cheese over the pork and vegetables, garnish with the fennel fronds, and serve.

Miso Butter Noodles

Miso Butter Noodles

Miso Butter Noodles

 

4 oz dry spaghetti

1 T. miso

1/2 tsp mirin

1 tsp soy sauce

1 clove garlic, chopped or grated

4 T. pasta water

2 tsp cooking oil

4 oz ground chicken, pork, turkey, beef or crumbled extra firm tofu

4 to 5 green cabbage leaves, cut into bite size

pinch of salt

1 T. butter

 

Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water by following the directions of the package you are using. Meanwhile, mix miso, mirin, soy sauce, garlic, and pasta water in a mixing bowl and set aside. Heat a large skillet over high heat, add cooking oil; add ground meat, cabbage and pinch of salt. Cook until pork is fully cooked and cabbages are soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the sauce mixture. Mix everything real quick then add the spaghetti and butter. Toss everything together. Transfer to a serving plate and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Ground Pork Egg Roll in a Bowl

Ground Pork Egg Roll in a Bowl

Ground Pork Egg Roll in a Bowl

 

2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb. lean ground turkey (see notes)

1 ½ T. sesame oil

1 ½ tsp. ground ginger

1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

½ tsp. kosher salt

½ tsp. black pepper

1 T. brown sugar

½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

8 cups shredded cabbage

1 ½ cups shredded carrots

2 T. low-sodium soy sauce

 

Heat oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Add the sesame oil, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper and brown sugar and stir well to combine. Add the chicken broth and the cabbage and stir well. Bring to a simmer and let cook until the cabbage is slightly wilted. Add the carrots and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the soy sauce, taste and adjust seasonings, and serve immediately.

Aged Cheddar, Smoked Ham, and Apple Galette

Aged Cheddar, Smoked Ham, and Apple Galette

Aged Cheddar, Smoked Ham, and Apple Galette

1 T. salted butter

2 T. all-purpose flour

¾ cups milk

2 T. grainy mustard

2 cups grated aged cheddar cheese

1 cup (1-inch) cubed smoked ham

2–3 large baking apples, cored, cut into ¼-inch slices (peel left on)

1 tsp. grated lemon zest

Flaked sea salt and cracked black pepper

1½ cups all-purpose flour

2 T. thyme leaves

½ tsp. fine sea salt

½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch cubes

5–6 T. cold water

1 large egg

1 T. milk

 

To make the pastry, place the flour, thyme, and salt in a food processor. Pulse once to combine. Add all the butter and pulse a few more times until the mixture is crumbly and the butter is cut down into pea-sized pieces. Add the cold water, 1 Tbsp at a time, pulsing in between to bring the dough together. Dump the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and form it into a disc. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. To make the filling, first melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and add the flour. Stir to combine and cook until the flour begins to brown and has a slightly nutty aroma. While whisking constantly, add the milk and continue to stir until the roux thickens. Remove from the heat and add the grainy mustard. Set aside.  In a large bowl, place the cheese, ham, apple slices, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss lightly just to combine. Place the dough on a well-floured work surface and roll it into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet. Spread the mustard roux over the middle of the pastry, leaving a 2-inch-wide border along the perimeter. Top with the cheese, ham, and apple mixture. Fold the bare edges of the dough in towards the centre to form a rustic crust. Make an egg wash by beating the egg with the milk. Brush the crust with the egg wash and bake the galette for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Remove the galette from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before serving

Bacon Yakisoba (Fried Noodles)

Bacon Yakisoba (Fried Noodles)

Bacon Yakisoba (Fried Noodles)

 

3-4 slices bacon, cut into bite-size pieces

1/4 cabbage, sliced thinly

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/4 cup water

1 fresh Yakisoba packet (comes with noodles and seasoning powder)

Kewpie mayonnaise, aonori (seaweed flakes), or pickled ginger, for garnish

 

Cook bacon in large skillet over medium-high heat until almost crispy. Set aside. Drain all but 1 tablespoon bacon fat. (For non-bacon option, start with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.)  Add cabbage to bacon fat and cook until soft. Set aside.   In same pan, heat oil and water. Add noodles and pan fry 2-3 minutes, until soft. Add bacon and cabbage. Sprinkle in seasoning powder and combine until even.   Divide among 3 plates. Garnish with a few lines of Kewpie mayonnaise, a handful of aonori, and a pinch of pickled ginger.

Saffron and Speck Gnocchetti

Saffron and Speck Gnocchetti

Saffron and Speck Gnocchetti

 

350 gr. gnocchetti sardi (or any other short pasta)

180 gr. sliced speck ½ thick

1 sachet of saffron

3 tablespoon virgin olive oil

4 tablespoon Parmesan cheese

salt

a sprinkle of pepper

 

Cook the pasta in 3 liters of boiling salted water according to the packet instruction. Meanwhile, cut the speck into 2 cm strips. Warm the olive oil into a frying pan and add the speck, let it to fry over a low-medium heat for 1 minute. Pour a scoop of cooking water into a little bowl and melt the saffron, then stir into the frying pan with the speck. Cook gently for 5 minutes stirring with a wooden spoon. Drain the pasta, tip into the cooking pan again. Add the sauce and put over a medium heat. Sprinkle over the pepper. Sauté for 30 seconds and stir with the wooden spoon. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Triple Batch Sam’s Meatballs

Triple Batch Sam’s Meatballs

Triple Batch Sam’s Meatballs

 

1 ½ pounds ground beef

1 ½ pounds ground pork

1 ½ pounds ground veal

1 1/2 cup ricotta

1 cup shredded Parmesan

1 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

6 large garlic cloves, minced

3 tsp. kosher salt

3 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

3 large egg

 

Makes 36 Meatballs. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Put everything into a large bowl and mix well—with your hands please, not a spoon. Roll into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until cooked all the way through.

Chicken Noodle Wonton Soup

Chicken Noodle Wonton Soup

Chicken Noodle Wonton Soup

 

2 T. oil

1/2 small onion, sliced

2 medium carrots, cut diagonally into thin slices

1 celery stalk, cut diagonally into thin slices

One 1-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced

3 garlic cloves, crushed and roughly chopped

6 cups chicken stock

6 green onions, white and light green parts, cut into 1-inch pieces

8 frozen chicken or pork pot stickers

4 baby bok choy, root end cut off so leaves can separate, then sliced lengthwise

One 3-ounce package instant ramen noodles, seasoning pack removed

8 shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and thinly sliced

8 ounces leftover Chicken

1 T. soy sauce

1 tsp. sesame chili oil (or just sesame oil)

 

Heat the oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ginger and garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about a minute. Add the stock and green onions and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes. Put in the pot stickers and cook for 5 minutes, then add the bok choy, noodles, shiitakes, and chicken. Cook until the noodles are softened, about 5 minutes, then stir in the soy sauce and sesame chib oil. Serve.

Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Air Fryer Egg Rolls

 

2 T. olive oil

2 T. sesame seeds

1 pound ground pork

3 green onions

1 tsp. onion powder

½ tsp. black pepper

½ tsp. ground ginger

1 T. minced garlic

1 T. white wine vinegar

½ T. soy sauce

1½ cups coleslaw mix

8 egg roll wrappers

 

In a saucepan over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sesame seeds. Toast the seeds to golden-brown. Add ground pork. Cook until browned, then add onion powder, black pepper, ground ginger, chopped green onions, minced garlic, white wine vinegar, and soy sauce. Cook until the juices evaporate. Add in the coleslaw mix and mix through. Cook so the slaw mix softens and stir through until everything is nicely combined. Lay out egg roll wrappers in the position of a diamond. Spoon two to three spoonfuls of meat into the center of the wrapper – make sure not to overstuff the egg rolls! Lightly wet the edge of the wrapper with water. Fold the left and right corners towards the center.  Then, fold the bottom corner up, and roll the egg rolls shut, squeezing any air out as you roll them. Lightly wet the exposed corner to press it down and seal your egg roll. Spray the air fryer basket with oil, then place the egg rolls in the basket. Spray the egg rolls with oil. Cook for 8 minutes at 380°F, until crispy and golden brown on all sides. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Try serving pork egg rolls with sweet and sour sauce or sweet chili sauce.

Great Northern Beans, Sauteed Spinach, Cornbread

Great Northern Beans, Sauteed Spinach, Cornbread

Great Northern Beans, Sauteed Spinach, Cornbread

 

2 pounds dried Great Northern beans, soaked overnight

1 ham hock

2 T. chicken or ham base/concentrate or 1 packet Goya ham concentrate

2 bay leaves

2 tsp. onion powder

2 tsp. garlic powder

2 celery stalks, sliced thin

Dash of cayenne pepper (optional, if you like a bit of heat)

1 tsp. table salt, plus more to taste

1 tsp. ground black pepper, plus more to taste

1/2 of a ham steak (for more meat in the beans), optional

 

Drain the water from the soaked beans and remove any funky-looking beans or rocks. Return the beans to the slow cooker and add fresh water to cover the beans by 1 or 2 inches. Add the ham hock, chicken or ham base, bay leaves, onion powder, garlic powder, celery, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Most newfangled slow cookers will thoroughly cook soaked beans in 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 4 hours on high. I apparently need a new slow cooker, because it took my old geezer 8 hours on low to cook these until tender. Bottom line: your mileage may vary if you have an older model. If at any time you think they are taking too long on low, just switch it over to a higher setting for a while. If you are using the ham steak, add it to the slow cooker about 15 minutes before serving to heat it through. Remove the ham hock before serving. Feel free to remove the meat from the bone and add it back to the beans. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper and discard the bay leaves.

 

Sauteed Spinach

 

1 pound baby spinach (more if you have a larger family or want leftovers)

2 T. olive oil

3 or 4 garlic cloves, minced (or more or less, to taste)

Pinch of cayenne pepper (or skip it if you don’t like the heat!)

Table salt, to taste

2 to 3 T. heavy cream (more or less, optional but yummy)

 

Rinse the spinach, even if it is prerinsed, because this will help wilt it. Working in batches, toss the spinach into a dry pan over medium-high heat. Stir and toss to keep it from sticking and remove it when very wilted. Add the next batch and repeat the process until it is all finished. Set all the wilted spinach aside. In the same pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for a minute until fragrant. Add the spinach back into the pan and toss to coat with the garlicky, oily goodness. Stir in the cayenne and salt. If feeling decadent, add a bit of heavy cream and heat until just warm.

 

Skillet Cornbread

 

1 ¼ C. Cornmeal

¾ C. Flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tsp. kosher salt

2 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/3 cup whole milk

1 cup buttermilk

2 eggs, lightly whisked

8 T. (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted, plus 1 T.

 

Preheat the oven to 425°F and place a 9-inch cast-iron skillet inside to heat while making the batter. In a large bowl, whisk the cornmeal, flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Add the milk and buttermilk and stir to combine. Add the eggs and stir to combine. Whisk in the melted butter. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Reduce the oven temperature to 3 75 °F. Add the remaining T. of butter and swirl it around the pan to melt. Pour the batter evenly into the skillet and place it in the center of the oven. Bake until the center is firm and a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

Mix and Match Casserole

Mix and Match Casserole

Mix and Match Casserole

 

Preheat the oven to 35O°F and lightly grease a 9- by 13-inch casserole dish. Cook the starch according to the package directions. Place the sauce of your choice in a small saucepan over low heat and stir in 1/2 cup milk (skim, low-fat, evaporated, or whole). Place the vegetables in a medium-size saucepan, cover with water, and bring just to a boil. Drain. Stir together the starch, sauce, vegetables, cheese, meat, and seasonings in a large bowl. Spoon the mixture into the prepared dish and bake until bubbly, 30 minutes. Add a topping, if desired, and bake an additional 5 minutes. Serve hot.

Polish Kotlety (Mielone)

Polish Kotlety (Mielone)

Polish Kotlety (Mielone)

 

1 pound (500 g) ground pork or turkey approx. 7% fat

1 small stale bun or ½ large, plus water for soaking,

1 small onion

1 medium egg

⅔ tsp. fine sea salt and ½ tsp. pepper

3-4 T. breadcrumbs for coating

2 T. vegetable oil for frying

 

Prepare bun: Place in a bowl, cover with water and set aside for 10 minutes (if the bun floats on top cover it with a small plate, or similar, to make sure it’s fully immersed in the water). Drain then squeeze excess water from the bun (do this thoroughly). Shred the bun (it will be very soft). Prepare onion: Either chop very finely by hand, grate or blend in a food processor (recommended). Make kotlety mixture: Combine the meat, shredded bun, egg, onion and seasoning. Using your hands mix the ingredients together until thoroughly incorporated, the mixture is smooth and doesn’t stick to your hands as much (do this for 3-4 minutes). It will feel very soft. Refrigerate for 10 minutes, if possible. Form kotlety, coat in breadcrumbs: Remove the mixture from the fridge. Form round (or oval shaped) patties, place in the breadcrumbs and coat thoroughly. They will be soft, but this is good as it means they will have a soft texture. You should get about 10 patties. Fry: In a large non-stick pan heat up 2 T. of oil and fry the kotlety over a medium heat for 5-6 minutes on each side until nicely browned (be careful not to brown them too quickly). Do not overcrowd the pan. Remove bits of breadcrumbs from the pan (and add more oil) before frying another batch. Serve immediately or briefly place on top of a paper towel sheet to remove excess oil (if necessary).

Parmesan-Bacon Pasta

Parmesan-Bacon Pasta

Parmesan-Bacon Pasta

 

½ (16-oz) pkg linguine

6 slices bacon, chopped

½ lb asparagus, trimmed

1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

¾ cup chicken broth

¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

 

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp; using a slotted spoon, remove bacon and drain on paper towels, reserving 1 T. drippings in skillet. Add asparagus; cook 4 minutes or until asparagus is crisp tender. Remove asparagus from skillet, and keep warm. Add tomatoes and broth, scraping skillet to loosen any browned bits; bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until broth is reduced by half. Add cheese, stirring until melted. Toss sauce mixture with pasta and bacon; divide mixture between 2 plates. Serve with asparagus.

Peach Glazed Pork Chops 

Peach Glazed Pork Chops 

 

1½ lb boneless pork chops

½ tsp salt

½ tsp pepper

2 T. olive oil

¾ cup peach preserves

2 T. apple cider vinegar

½ tsp dried thyme (or use dried crushed rosemary)

 

Sprinkle pork with salt and pepper. Cook pork, in batches if necessary, in hot oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat 4 minutes per side or until browned. Reduce heat to medium; add preserves, vinegar, and thyme. Cook 3 to 4 minutes or until glaze is thickened and pork is done.

Family Night Pepperoni Stromboli

Family Night Pepperoni Stromboli

Family Night Pepperoni Stromboli

 

1 (13.8-oz) can refrigerated pizza dough

½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

½ (6-oz) pkg pepperoni

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ (24-oz) jar pasta sauce

 

Preheat oven to 375°F. Unroll dough on a clean flat surface. Sprinkle with Parmesan. Top with pepperoni and mozzarella, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides; roll up. Place, seam side down, on a lightly greased baking sheet. Cut 1-inch slits in top of roll at 2-inch intervals. Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until golden brown; let stand 10 minutes before slicing. Heat pasta sauce according to package directions; serve with stromboli for dipping.

Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner

Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner

Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner

 

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 pounds baby potatoes

6 pork chops (either boneless or bone-in will work)

1 ounce ranch dressing mix ((1 oz package))

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon oregano (dry)

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

 

Preheat your oven to 400°F . Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Place potatoes and pork chops on the baking sheet and drizzle the olive oil over the pork chops and potatoes and toss well. In a small bowl mix together the ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano and black pepper. Rub the seasoning over the pork chops and the potatoes. I didn’t find the need for additional salt, but feel free to season with salt to taste. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 30 minutes or until the pork chops are cooked through and the potatoes are fork tender. The internal temperature of the chops should reach 145°F (63°C) when cooked. Also please note that all ovens are different, and some may take longer and some may require less time. Garnish with chopped parsley then serve immediately.

Croque Monsieur Croissant Bake

Croque Monsieur Croissant Bake

Croque Monsieur Croissant Bake

 

6 large day old croissants or 9 mini croissants

1/2 lb sliced ham

1/2 lb sliced Gruyère, or Swiss cheese

3 large eggs

1 c milk

1 tsp. kosher salt

 

2 T. flour

2 T. butter

1 1/2 c milk

2 T. mustard dijon or whole grain

1 tsp. kosher salt

 

First, make the béchamel. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the flour and cook, whisking continuously until the butter and flour are well combined and foaming but still very pale in color, about 2 minutes. Slowly stream in the milk whisking continuously until the mixture is pale and smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Turn off the heat, whisk in the mustard, salt and freshly cracked pepper. Set aside. Preheat your oven to 350 F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of butter. Slice the croissants in half through the middle so you have a top and bottom. Brush each half with a generous layer of béchamel then layer 1-2 slices each of ham and cheese, reserve a few few slices of cheese to top the croissants at the end. Put the tops and bottoms back together and arrange them into the baking dish. Depending on the size of your croissants they may not fit perfectly you will have to play around with it a bit. You can cut a few in half if you need to. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Whisk together the eggs, milk and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this mixture over the croissants. Press down on the croissants to help them absorb the eggs and milk. Let sit for 30 minutes (or up to 12 hrs) before baking. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the croissants, bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. Serve immediately!

 

Croissants: Day old, slightly stale croissants are best because they will soak up more liquid from the custard.

Ham : any type of ham will be just fine for this recipe.

Gruyère Cheese: If you can’t find Gruyère use swiss cheese instead.

Ham Hock and Parsley Sauce

Ham Hock and Parsley Sauce

Ham Hock and Parsley Sauce

 

1 Smoked Ham Hock

1 large onion, quartered

2 celery sticks, roughly chopped

2 carrots (if you have them), roughly chopped

Couple of sprigs of thyme

10 peppercorns

 

400 ml of full fat milk

1 onion

1 bay leaf

Small bunch of parsley stalks

4 or 5 cloves

Pinch of mace

3 ½ T. butter

6 ½ T. plain flour

Large bunch of parsley, finely chopped

 

First, prepare your hock the night before by soaking it in cold water, otherwise it will be rather salty. To cook, simply cover with cold water in a large stock pot and add the vegetables, thyme and peppercorn. Place on the hob and bring to the boil, then gently simmer for a couple of hours, spooning off any scum that rises to the surface. Once cooked, take out of the stock and leave to rest under some foil. SAVE THE STOCK THOUGH! For soups, soups and more soups. To make the parsley sauce, put all the ingredients bar the butter and flour into a saucepan and place on the hob. Bring gently to the boil and then take off, leaving everything to infuse and cool for 30 minutes or so. Then strain the milk through a sieve into a jug. Take a clean saucepan and place over a medium heat. Make a roux by adding the butter and let it melt until it begins to foam, then add the flour. Stir in with a whisk for a minute or so, until it turns a nice biscuit color. Slowly add the flavored milk (which should still be warm), whisking all the way over the heat until it thickens to the consistency of runny custard. Take off the heat and keep warm. Slice up your ham hock and serve on heated plates with your chosen   accompaniments. Place your sauce back on the heat for one quick blast and then dump your chopped parsley in at the very last minute (overcooked parsley soon turns grey). Ladle a healthy amount over the ham and enjoy.

One-Pot Smoky Pork Chops and Rice

One-Pot Smoky Pork Chops and Rice

One-Pot Smoky Pork Chops and Rice

 

6 (8-oz) bone-in pork chops

1 T. smoked paprika

1 tsp. salt, divided

2 T. olive oil

2 (8-oz) pkg diced tricolor bell pepper mix (such as Incredible Fresh)

2 pints grape tomatoes

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 T. chopped fresh thyme

2 (8.8-oz) pouches microwavable brown rice

 

Sprinkle pork with paprika and ½ tsp. salt. Cook pork, in batches, in hot oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat 3 to 4 minutes per side or until browned. Remove from skillet. Add bell pepper mix, and cook 2 minutes or until crisp-tender. Stir in tomatoes, broth, thyme, and ½ tsp. salt. Reduce heat to medium; nestle pork chops into vegetable mixture. Cover and cook 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender and chicken is done. Meanwhile, microwave rice according to package directions. Stir rice into pork mixture until blended.

Pork Schnitzel with Creamy Dill Sauce

Pork Schnitzel with Creamy Dill Sauce

Pork Schnitzel with Creamy Dill Sauce

 

¼ cup sour cream

2 tablespoons dill pickle relish

2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish

4 boneless pork loin chops (about 1 pound), trimmed

1 teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 large egg

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

⅛ teaspoon ground pepper

4 lemon wedges

 

Combine sour cream, relish and dill in a small bowl. Set aside. Using a meat mallet or a small heavy saucepan, pound each pork chop between pieces of plastic wrap to an even 1/4-inch thickness. Sprinkle the pork with garlic powder and salt. Place flour in a shallow dish. Lightly beat egg in another shallow dish. Add panko to a third shallow dish. Dredge the pork in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip in the egg, then dredge in the panko, pressing to adhere. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches if necessary, cook the pork, flipping once, until golden and crispy and an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part registers 145°F, 4 to 6 minutes. (Alternatively, use an air fryer: Coat the basket with cooking spray. Place the pork in a single layer in the basket. Cook, in batches if necessary, at 360°F until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center registers 145°, about 10 minutes. If preparing in batches, cooking time for the second batch may be shorter.) Sprinkle the pork with pepper. Garnish with additional chopped dill, if desired, and serve with the reserved sauce and lemon wedges.

Crispy Pork Chops with Lemon-Dill Sauce

Crispy Pork Chops with Lemon-Dill Sauce

Crispy Pork Chops with Lemon-Dill Sauce

 

¾ lb thin boneless pork chops

¼ cup all-purpose flour

1 large egg, lightly beaten

¾ cup panko breadcrumbs

2 T. vegetable oil

½ cup mayonnaise

1 tsp. lemon zest

1 T. lemon juice

1 T. chopped fresh dill

 

Season pork lightly with salt and pepper. Place flour, egg, and panko in 3 separate shallow bowls. Dredge pork in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg; dredge in panko, pressing gently to adhere. Cook pork in hot oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat 3 to 4 minutes per side or until browned and crisp. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels. Meanwhile, stir together mayonnaise, lemon zest, juice, and dill; serve with pork.

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Prosciutto and Sage

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Prosciutto and Sage

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Prosciutto and Sage

 

2 T. olive oil

4 ounces prosciutto, sliced into thin ribbons

1/2 cup fresh sage leaves, cut into thin strips (chiffonade)

1 15-ounce can pumpkin purée, such as Libby’s

1 1/4 cups heavy cream or half-and-half

2 T. butter

2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for pasta water

1 tsp. fresh black pepper

1 pound rigatoni or other good-sized tubular pasta

1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more to garnish

2 cups reserved pasta water (you may not use all of this)

 

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add pasta. Stir, and cook until two minutes shy of al dente. Drain, reserving at least 2 cups of pasta water. While the pasta comes to a boil and cooks, cook the prosciutto and sage in two T. olive oil over medium heat, stirring frequently, until lightly browned and crisp. Set aside on a plate. Add the pumpkin, cream, 2 tsp. salt, pepper, and butter to the skillet. Cook, whisking, until smooth and heated through. It will be thick. Add the drained pasta and half of the prosciutto and sage back to the skillet. Toss to coat and cook together for a minute or two, using pasta water to loosen it into a creamy sauce. (Note: I used nearly 2 cups, in several additions.) Remove from heat. Stir in the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Taste for seasoning. Spoon into pasta bowls, topping with the remaining prosciutto and sage, with a sprinkle of additional grated cheese.