Craving a hearty, satisfying meal without derailing your keto diet? Look no further than this mouthwatering Keto Pork Chop and “Potatoes” recipe! This ingenious dish swaps out high-carb potatoes for a clever low-carb alternative, delivering all the comfort food feels without the guilt. Get ready to indulge in juicy, perfectly seasoned pork chops nestled alongside a creamy, garlic-infused side that’ll make you forget all about traditional spuds. Let’s dive into this keto-friendly twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to become a regular in your low-carb recipe rotation!
Keto Pork Chops with “Faux-tatoes” Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
– 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick, 6-8 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 2 teaspoons onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the “Faux-tatoes”
– 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into florets
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Kitchen Tools
– Large skillet (preferably cast iron)
– Meat thermometer
– Large pot for boiling cauliflower
– Colander
– Food processor or immersion blender
– Mixing bowls
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Sharp knife
– Cutting board
– Wooden spoon or spatula
– Tongs
Preparation Method
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Begin by placing your pork chops on a clean cutting board and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps remove excess moisture, ensuring a beautiful sear on the meat. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This aromatic blend will infuse your pork chops with a delectable flavor profile that complements the meat perfectly.
Generously sprinkle the spice mixture over both sides of the pork chops, using your fingers to gently massage it into the meat. Make sure to coat the edges as well for maximum flavor impact. Once seasoned, allow the pork chops to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the meat to warm slightly, promoting even cooking and helping the seasonings to penetrate deeper into the pork.
2. Prepare the “Faux-tatoes”:
While your pork chops are resting, it’s time to start on your low-carb “potato” alternative. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt to the water – this will help season the cauliflower from the inside out. Carefully add the cauliflower florets and peeled garlic cloves to the boiling water.
Allow the cauliflower and garlic to cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cauliflower is very tender when pierced with a fork. The garlic will infuse the cauliflower with a subtle, mellow flavor as it cooks. Once tender, drain the cauliflower and garlic in a colander, shaking gently to remove excess water. Return the drained cauliflower and garlic to the hot pot and let it sit for a minute or two. The residual heat will help evaporate any remaining moisture, which is key to achieving a creamy, rather than watery, final texture.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
Now that your pork chops have rested and your cauliflower is ready, it’s time to cook the star of the dish. Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron for optimal heat retention and distribution) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the hot skillet. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as the meat hits the pan. Allow the pork chops to cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes on the first side. This will give them time to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Using tongs, flip the pork chops and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
Now, add the butter to the pan, allowing it to melt and mix with the pan juices. As the butter melts, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the pork chops with the buttery juices. This technique, known as butter basting, adds richness and helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Continue cooking and basting until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone. This temperature ensures your pork is cooked to a perfect medium, remaining juicy and slightly pink in the center.
Once the pork chops have reached the desired temperature, remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a clean plate. Tent the plate loosely with aluminum foil and allow the meat to rest for 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
4. Finish the “Faux-tatoes”:
While your pork chops are resting, return your attention to the cauliflower. Transfer the cooked cauliflower and garlic to a food processor. If you don’t have a food processor, you can use an immersion blender or even a potato masher for a more rustic texture.
Add the heavy cream, butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg (if using) to the cauliflower. Process or blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency that resembles mashed potatoes. If needed, you can add a little more cream or butter to achieve your desired texture.
Once smooth, taste your “faux-tatoes” and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The Parmesan cheese adds a nice saltiness, so be careful not to over-salt. If the mixture has cooled too much during processing, you can transfer it back to the pot and gently reheat over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Now that all components of your meal are ready, it’s time to plate this keto-friendly feast. Divide the creamy “faux-tatoes” between four plates, creating a smooth base for your pork chops. Place a rested pork chop on top of each serving of “faux-tatoes”.
If there are any juices left on the plate where the pork chops were resting, drizzle these over the meat for an extra boost of flavor. Sprinkle the chopped fresh chives over the “faux-tatoes” for a pop of color and a mild oniony flavor that complements both the pork and the cauliflower beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
– Calories: 520
– Total Fat: 38g
– Saturated Fat: 18g
– Trans Fat: 0g
– Cholesterol: 140mg
– Sodium: 380mg (varies based on added salt)
– Total Carbohydrates: 8g
– Dietary Fiber: 3g
– Net Carbs: 5g
– Sugars: 3g
– Protein: 40g
Please note that these nutritional values are approximate and may vary slightly based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Recipe Notes
1. Pork Chop Thickness: The cooking time in this recipe is based on 1-inch thick pork chops. If your chops are thinner or thicker, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thinner chops will cook faster, while thicker ones may need a few extra minutes.
2. Cauliflower Substitutes: While cauliflower makes an excellent low-carb substitute for potatoes, you can experiment with other keto-friendly alternatives like mashed turnips or rutabaga for variety.
3. Dairy-Free Option: To make this recipe dairy-free, replace the butter and heavy cream in the “faux-tatoes” with coconut oil and full-fat coconut milk. Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
4. Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain the texture of both the pork and the “faux-tatoes”.
5. Meal Prep: The “faux-tatoes” can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. This can be a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
6. Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in both the pork chop seasoning and the “faux-tatoes”. Rosemary, sage, or even a hint of cayenne can add interesting flavor dimensions to this dish.
7. Serving Suggestion: For a complete keto meal, consider serving this dish with a side of sautéed green beans or a crisp salad dressed with a high-fat vinaigrette.
By following this detailed recipe, you’ll create a satisfying, keto-friendly meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture. The juicy pork chops paired with the creamy, garlicky “faux-tatoes” offer a comforting dining experience that aligns perfectly with your low-carb lifestyle. Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic dish that proves eating keto can be both nutritious and indulgent!