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Bobby Flay’s Cozy Weekend Dinner: Porterhouse Pork Chops and Polenta
As the weekend approaches, who wouldn’t want to indulge in a comforting, high-protein meal that leaves you cozy and satisfied? Celebrity chef Bobby Flay has shared his favorite dinner recipe that not only delivers on these promises but also brings a touch of culinary sophistication to your kitchen.
In a recent segment on Today Food, Flay showcased a delightful recipe from his new book, Bobby Flay: Chapter One, featuring Porterhouse Pork Chops paired with creamy polenta. Flay emphasizes the appeal of these pork chops, asking, “Who doesn’t like porterhouse pork chops?” This dish creatively reinterprets the classic Italian Osso Buco, which traditionally showcases braised veal shanks, by highlighting tender pork instead.
To start, Flay prepares a mirepoix (a mix of diced vegetables typically used in cooking) in a large pot, followed by the addition of pork bones, which enrich the dish’s flavor with a robust broth. He then incorporates beef broth and red wine, hinting that this is a phenomenal dish to prepare on a leisurely Sunday afternoon, inviting the warm scents to fill the kitchen.
Flay’s culinary expertise shines through in his spice rub, crafted with cumin, coriander, mustard, salt, and pepper, among other spices. He suggests personalizing the spice blend according to personal preferences. A noteworthy tip is to apply the spice rub just before searing the pork in a hot pan. This technique preserves the meat’s moisture while creating a deliciously aromatic crust.
Moreover, spices play a vital role in enhancing the healthfulness of the dish. Ingredients like spicy pepper powders can contribute to lower blood pressure and improved heart health, while black pepper is noted for its anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant benefits.
Continuing with his cooking methods, Flay advises to sear the pork chops on both sides in avocado oil or another preferred cooking oil before transferring them to the oven to finish cooking. This two-step process ensures that the meat remains juicy inside while achieving a sought-after, crispy exterior.
In addition to the pork, Flay prepares creamy polenta, swirling in romesco sauce — a vibrant blend of tomatoes, peppers, almonds, and garlic. This beautifully plated combination of polenta and romesco, topped with Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, the succulent pork chop, and flavorful pan sauce, is elevated with a fresh gremolata. Co-host Dylan Dreyer from Today praises the dish, exclaiming that it is “amazing.”
This high-protein dinner not only satisfies hunger but also offers a delectable dining experience. For those wanting a similar level of comfort with a spicy twist, Flay’s Cajun Skillet Pork Chops with Asparagus & Cheesy Polenta is a fantastic option, requiring just 35 minutes to prepare.
With these recipes and techniques, you can easily create a cozy and satisfying weekend dinner that will leave a lasting impression on your palate and nourish your body.
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