2 Takes on Pork Chops for Quick Eats after Work

Feeling the need to cook more at home, I tried two takes on pork chops the past two nights. Both recipes are quick solutions to make a decently healthy dinner after work.

Round 1: Pork chops with mushrooms, red onion, broccoli and garlic.
Time: 30-40 minutes.

1. Heat olive oil in the pan over medium heat. I like using garlic olive oil that I got from a coworker.
   
2. Salt the pork chops.
3. Once the oil is hot, sautee the red onion and garlic. I've learned to cut the onion rather large, so it doesn't burn by the time the meat is done cooking. Add the mushrooms. Cook 1-2 minutes.
   
4. Add the chops to the pan.
5. Apply a cooking stone or press. This helps cut down cooking time.
6. Flip after 5-7 minutes.
7. Stir the veggies. If you have any wine, this would be the time to add it and make a nice sauce and clean the pan at the same time.
   
8. Poke to see if the meat is done. Depending on the thickness of the pork chops, they should be done after 20-30 mins. I always play it safe. I'd rather chew tough meat than meet some new nurses at the hospital. On second thought...
   
9. Plate it up.

Round 2: Breaded Chops with Penne
Time: 30-40 mins

1. Beat one egg in a bowl with a shake of salt.
2. Now would be a good time to start a pot of water boiling if you plan on eating pasta with the chops. Tip: Don't salt the water until it's boiling, it'll make it take longer to boil.
   
3. Add oregano to breadcrumbs. Panko would be a nice touch if you make real money as opposed to being paid in peanuts.
   
4. Sautee some onion and garlic in olive oil.
5. Dip chops in egg, then in bread crumbs. Flip over to get both sides.
6. Add to the hot oil and onions.
7. Put the pressure on with a grill press.
8. Flip the chops after 6-7 minutes.
9. By this time the water should be boiling. Add salt to the water and the pasta. I recommend whole grain noodles for all your fiber needs.
10. Check the chops for "done-ness."
11. Heat up the sauce with the pasta. I used canned vodka sauce.
    
12. Plate.
13. Post pics on your blog and Facebook to make all your friends jealous that you know how to cook.

~Chef Drew