Breakfast Pork Cutlets Recipe

Name: Breakfast Pork Cutlets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 1/4 teaspoon whole fennel seeds; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried poultry seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 pinch cayenne pepper; 2 (6-8-ounce) boneless center cut pork chops, trimmed; 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt; 2 teaspoons maple syrup; 1/2 cup fine dry breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Spiced Pork Cutlets Recipe

This easy-to-follow recipe will have you preparing crispy, flavorful pork cutlets in no time. Serve them with a soft-boiled egg and pickled onions for an extra touch, if desired. Heres how to make them:

Ingredients:

Spice Mix:

1/4 teaspoon whole fennel seeds
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried poultry seasoning
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 pinch cayenne pepper

For the Cutlets:

2 (6-8-ounce) boneless center-cut pork chops, trimmed
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 teaspoons maple syrup
1/2 cup fine dry breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

Directions:

Prepare the spice mix: Use a mortar and pestle to crush the fennel seeds. Transfer to a small bowl and stir in the black pepper, poultry seasoning, nutmeg, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Set this spice mix aside.
Prepare the pork chops: Make several shallow vertical cuts through the fat on the edges of each pork chop to prevent them from curling while cooking. Place each chop between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a meat pounder or a heavy flat object to pound them to a thickness of 1/4-inch. Transfer the pork chops to a plate.
Season the chops: Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with kosher salt. Then, evenly distribute the spice mix on both sides, rubbing it in gently.
Maple syrup coating: Brush or rub each side of the pork chops with about 1/2 teaspoon of maple syrup.
Breadcrumb coating: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over one side of each chop, pressing it in firmly. Flip the chops over and repeat on the other side.
Cook the pork cutlets: Heat olive oil and butter in a nonstick skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork cutlets and cook for about 2 minutes per side, turning once, until the meat is no longer pink in the center and the edges are browned and crispy. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145F (63C).

Cook's Note:

If you like, top your pork chops with a soft-boiled egg and pickled onions for extra flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 464
Total Fat: 30g (38% DV)
Saturated Fat: 9g (43% DV)
Cholesterol: 81mg (27% DV)
Sodium: 1232mg (54% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 25g (9% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% DV)
Total Sugars: 6g
Protein: 24g (48% DV)
Calcium: 87mg (7% DV)
Iron: 2mg (13% DV)
Potassium: 359mg (8% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

Breakfast Pork Cutlets are a hearty and flavorful dish that combines elements of classic breakfast sausage, chicken fried steak, and pork chops. This savory meal is perfect for those who want to enjoy a satisfying start to their day. But where did this dish originate, and what makes it different from similar meals? In this article, we explore its history, regional variations, and unique features that make the Breakfast Pork Cutlets an exceptional choice for breakfast.

History of Breakfast Pork Cutlets

The origins of pork cutlets as a breakfast item are rooted in American culinary traditions, where pork has long been a popular breakfast protein. While pork chops have been a staple in meals dating back to the early days of the American colonies, the specific combination of spices, breadcrumbs, and syrup used in the Breakfast Pork Cutlets is a more recent creation. This dish draws inspiration from classic American comfort food, incorporating flavors that are typically found in breakfast sausage, such as fennel and garlic, into a crispy, pan-fried cutlet. The addition of maple syrup adds a sweet contrast to the savory elements, a hallmark of many American breakfast dishes.

Regional Features and Variations

Breakfast Pork Cutlets are most commonly found in American kitchens, particularly in the South and Midwest, where pork is a central part of the culinary landscape. In these regions, it's not uncommon to pair the cutlets with other breakfast favorites like fried eggs, biscuits, or grits. The dish is versatile and can be adapted with local spices or served alongside regional specialties. For example, in the Southern United States, a version of this dish might be served with a side of creamy gravy or collard greens, enhancing the flavor and making it more filling.

How Does It Differ from Similar Dishes?

Breakfast Pork Cutlets stand apart from similar dishes such as chicken-fried steak or regular pork chops due to their preparation and seasoning. Unlike traditional pork chops, which are usually grilled or roasted, pork cutlets are pounded thin, making them tender and quick to cook. The use of a unique spice mix, including fennel seeds, garlic powder, and poultry seasoning, adds depth of flavor that distinguishes these cutlets from other fried pork dishes. Additionally, the maple syrup coating provides a touch of sweetness that balances the spices and creates a distinctive taste, setting this dish apart from more common savory breakfasts.

Where Is It Typically Served?

Breakfast Pork Cutlets are a popular choice for home-cooked breakfasts, especially on weekends or holidays when a hearty meal is desired. They are typically served in casual breakfast or brunch settings, both at home and in some Southern or Midwestern diners. While it's not as commonly found on restaurant menus as other breakfast staples like pancakes or bacon, this dish is a favorite among those who enjoy trying new twists on traditional breakfast fare. It can be found in regional eateries that specialize in American comfort food or farm-to-table restaurants that offer homey, rustic dishes.

Fun Facts About Breakfast Pork Cutlets

Did you know that fennel, one of the key spices in the Breakfast Pork Cutlets, is often used in Italian sausage recipes? Its known for its slightly sweet, licorice-like flavor.
Maple syrup, which is used to coat the pork chops, is a product deeply tied to American culture, particularly in the Northeast. Vermont, for example, produces some of the finest maple syrup in the world.
While pork is a traditional breakfast meat, the Breakfast Pork Cutlet offers a fun variation, making use of breadcrumbs for a crispy texture that you wouldnt normally associate with a classic pork chop.

In conclusion, Breakfast Pork Cutlets are a delicious and unique way to enjoy pork at breakfast. They offer a great balance of savory and sweet flavors, and their quick cooking time makes them an ideal choice for busy mornings. Whether you're serving them with eggs, pickled onions, or mashed potato waffles, these cutlets are sure to impress anyone who loves a hearty and flavorful breakfast.

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FAQ about Breakfast Pork Cutlets Recipe

Once cooked, breakfast pork cutlets should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, you can either use a microwave or warm them in a skillet over medium heat.

Yes, you can prepare the spice mix ahead of time. Store it in a small, airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. This will allow the spices to meld together for enhanced flavor when you're ready to cook.

While this recipe is specifically designed for pork chops, you could try substituting with boneless chicken breasts or turkey cutlets. Be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken and turkey may require slightly longer to cook through.

You can use frozen pork chops, but they must be fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking. To thaw, place the pork chops in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Never thaw meat at room temperature to avoid bacterial growth.

These pork cutlets pair wonderfully with fried or soft-boiled eggs, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a side of pickled onions. You can also try serving them with some fresh fruit for a balanced meal.

If you don't have breadcrumbs, you can use panko crumbs, crushed crackers, or even ground oats as a substitute. These alternatives will provide a similar crunch and texture to the cutlets.

While maple syrup is an essential ingredient for a slight sweetness, you can substitute it with honey, agave nectar, or even a little brown sugar. These alternatives will still provide the necessary sweetness and caramelization during cooking.

The best way to check if the pork cutlets are done is by using a meat thermometer. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the cutlet to ensure there is no pink and the juices run clear.

Yes, you can easily adjust the quantities to make more or fewer servings. Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if you're making smaller or larger pork chops, as this could slightly affect the time needed to cook through.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork cutlets. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each cutlet tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Comments

John Flores

01/15/2024 01:30:17 PM

I mostly followed the recipe as written, with just a couple of modifications. Apologies to Chef John, but I used a spice grinder instead of a mortar and pestle. I also substituted panko breadcrumbs and ground them up in the spice grinder to achieve a finer texture. The end result was absolutely amazing! The dish had a perfect balance of salty and sweet flavors. I served it with some fried eggs and it was a hit with the whole family. Highly recommended!

Amy Brown

03/23/2023 03:38:17 AM

Great chops! I might try using an egg batter next time.

Edward Jones

03/29/2023 03:01:50 PM

This dish was unexpectedly delicious. I followed the recipe exactly as written and the result was truly outstanding. The seasoning on the pork added a fantastic flavor that complemented the breakfast theme perfectly. Just be sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the pork, as some of mine did fall off during cooking. Personally, I think a fried egg might have been a better choice than the soft-boiled egg to have a richer sauce with the yolk. Pairing it with Chef John's Dragon syrup could be a great idea. I served it with mashed potato waffles. Thank you, Chef John, for this amazing recipe!

George Carter

08/14/2022 04:34:30 AM

Try using pickled onions.

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