Chuleta de Cerdo en Salsa Hondureña
Tender pork chops simmered in a vibrant, flavorful tomato-based salsa, a classic Honduran dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 count Pork chops(bone-in, about 1-inch thick)
- 1.5 teaspoons Salt(divided)
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, divided)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Cumin
- 3 tablespoons Neutral oil(divided)
- 4 large Roma tomatoes(quartered)
- 1.25 medium White onion(divided, sliced and quartered)
- 2 count Serrano peppers(roughly chopped (adjust to spice preference))
- 3 large Garlic cloves(divided, sliced and minced)
- 2 teaspoons Chicken or tomato bouillon
- 0.5 teaspoon Mexican oregano(crushed)
- 0.66 cup Water
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine 1.5 tsp salt, 1 tsp pepper, garlic powder, and cumin. Season the pork chops on both sides with this spice blend. Set aside.
- 2
In a blender, combine the quartered tomatoes, 1/4 of the white onion, serrano peppers, 2 minced garlic cloves, bouillon, oregano, and 2/3 cup water. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
- 3
Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned. Remove pork from skillet and set aside.
- 4
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
- 5
Pour the blended sauce into the skillet. Stir to combine, reduce heat to a simmer, and let the sauce cook for 5-6 minutes.
- 6
Return the pork chops to the skillet. Top with chopped cilantro. Partially cover with a lid and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the sauce has reduced and thickened, and the pork chops are cooked through.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, typically with rice and corn tortillas.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the serrano peppers.
- ✓Ensure the pork chops are not too thin, as they can overcook quickly.
- ✓This dish can also be made with chicken thighs.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce.
- For a spicier kick, add an extra serrano pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.