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Chop to It!

Herb-Crusted Pan-Seared Pork Chops with Minted Tamarind Glaze and Seasonal Vegetables

40 minutes
Serves 4
DinnerFrenchNut-freeShellfish-freeSoy-free
Herb's take

This French-inspired pork chop is all about contrast: a crackly herb crust, juicy center, and a tangy, aromatic glaze that will have your taste buds asking for a thesis on flavor. Tonight, you'll master pan-searing and the art of reducing a sweet-sour sauce without a degree in chemistry, though it will feel that way.

Ingredients

Yield
4

Instructions

  1. 01
    Pat the pork chops dry and season both sides evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
  2. 02
    In a small bowl, mix the thyme, rosemary, parsley, and Dijon mustard. Rub this herb-mustard mixture over both sides of the pork chops to coat.
  3. 03
    Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. 04
    Add the pork chops and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deeply golden and fragrant. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, flipping once, until an instant-read thermometer reads 140°F in the thickest part, about 4 to 6 more minutes.
  5. 05
    Transfer the chops to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Reserve any browned bits in the pan.
  6. 06
    To the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the shallot and garlic over medium heat for 1 minute, scraping up any fond.
  7. 07
    Stir in the tamarind concentrate and honey, whisking to dissolve. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has reduced by about half and is syrupy, 4 to 6 minutes.
  8. 08
    Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, until glossy and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the mint, lemon zest, and half the lemon juice.
  9. 09
    Meanwhile, steam or blanch the carrots, asparagus, and snap peas until just tender but still vibrant, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain and toss with the remaining lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
  10. 10
    Serve pork chops over the bed of seasonal vegetables, drizzling generously with the minted tamarind glaze. Garnish with extra mint or herbs if you wish.

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