Braised Pork Chops with Tomato

Serves 4

Notes from the Chef

I like to do this recipe with chops still on the bone; I think it adds more flavor to the dish. You need pork chops that are on the thick side (1 ¼ - 1 ½ inches) or the dish will be dry.

Canned San Marzanno tomatoes are now readily available at most local “stupidmarkets.” They too have more flavor. If you can’t find them, use the best-quality diced tomatoes your grocer carries. Better yet, make your own oven-roasted tomatoes.

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 tsp dried oregano, divided
• 1 tsp dried basil, divided
• 2 cloves (or more) garlic, minced, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste (and your doctor’s instructions)
• 4 pork chops (approx. 1 ¼ - 1 ½ inches thick)
• 1/2 cup diced San Marzanno tomatoes, drained
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 Tbsp dry red wine (optional)
• 1/4 apple, sliced

Preparation

1. In a bowl, combine half of the oil, oregano, basil and garlic with salt and pepper. Rub onto the pork chops. (Note: I recommend doing this at least 4 hours in advance or, even better, the night before.)
2. In a separate bowl, combine the tomatoes; remaining oregano, basil and garlic; and salt and pepper.
3. Preheat your oven to 425 F.
4. Allow the pork chops to reach room temperature.
5. Preheat a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the remaining oil and place the pork chops in the pan, making sure they have room to brown. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 4-5 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the chops from the pan to a baking dish. Add the chicken broth and wine (optional) to the pan and scrape any browned bits from the sides, then pour over the chops. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
7. Spoon the tomato mixture over the chops. (Optional: Add the apple slices for a little crunch and sweetness.) Return the dish to the oven and bake for 2 more minutes or until the tomatoes are warmed through.

Nutritional Information per Serving

• 5 g Net Carbohydrate

Source: Ward Alper, the Decadent Diabetic

Not every recipe on our site is appropriate for every person with diabetes. Please follow the recommendations of your doctor, dietitian or nutritionist.