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#### **Instructions:**
1. **Season the Pork Chops**:
Start by patting your pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better in the pan. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and any herbs you’re using (such as thyme or rosemary). The combination of garlic, onion, and paprika adds a savory, smoky depth of flavor without the need for heavy sauces.
2. **Sear the Pork Chops**:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil or avocado oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for 3-4 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms. Searing the pork chops before cooking them through adds a flavorful outer layer and locks in moisture.
3. **Finish Cooking**:
After searing the pork chops, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter (optional) to the pan. Once the butter has melted, pour in the bone broth (if using) to deglaze the pan and infuse the pork chops with even more flavor. Cover the skillet and cook the pork chops for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops.
4. **Rest the Pork Chops**:
Once the pork chops are fully cooked, remove them from the pan and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Resting the meat helps retain its juices, ensuring the pork chops remain tender and juicy.
5. **Pair with Low-Carb Sides**:
Serve your low-carb pork chops with a variety of delicious and nutritious sides. Roasted vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, or zucchini make great options. For a creamy side, try cauliflower mash or sautéed spinach with garlic and olive oil.
### Flavor Variations for Low-Carb Pork Chops
While the basic method for cooking low-carb pork chops is flavorful on its own, you can easily switch things up with different marinades, rubs, or sauces to suit your taste preferences. Here are some delicious variations to consider:
#### **1. Herb-Crusted Pork Chops:**
For a fresh, fragrant twist, coat your pork chops with a mixture of fresh herbs, like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Combine the chopped herbs with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and rub it all over the pork chops before searing them.
#### **2. Lemon and Garlic Pork Chops:**
For a zesty and bright flavor, marinate your pork chops in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of Dijon mustard. Let the chops marinate for 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to develop.
#### **3. Mushroom Cream Sauce:**
To add some richness to your low-carb pork chops, serve them with a simple mushroom cream sauce. Sauté mushrooms in butter, then add a splash of heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and thyme for a creamy sauce that complements the pork chops beautifully.
#### **4. Spicy Cajun Pork Chops:**
If you like heat, spice things up with a Cajun seasoning blend. Coat the pork chops with a mixture of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano for a smoky, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or roasted veggies.
### Low-Carb Pork Chop Pairing Ideas
To round out your low-carb meal, try pairing your pork chops with any of these delicious, low-carb sides:
– **Cauliflower Rice**: This low-carb alternative to rice is a perfect side to soak up the savory juices from your pork chops.
– **Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)**: A great noodle substitute that adds fiber and vitamins to your meal without the carbs.
– **Roasted Brussels Sprouts**: Their slightly bitter flavor complements the richness of the pork chops and adds texture to the meal.
– **Sautéed Spinach**: A quick and easy side dish that’s packed with nutrients and pairs well with the savory flavor of the pork.
### Conclusion
With just a few simple changes, you can easily turn pork chops into a low-carb delight that’s packed with flavor and perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle. By seasoning the pork chops with bold spices and pairing them with healthy, non-starchy sides, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that won’t derail your dietary goals.
The best part? These low-carb pork chops are easy to prepare, full of flavor, and versatile enough to enjoy on any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping a special meal, this method will have you saying, “I’m all in for another round of cooking this!”
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