Frozen Pork Chops in the Instant Pot Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic base (such as Better Than Bouillon Roasted Garlic Base)
• cup water
• 2 teaspoons all-purpose seasoning (such as Savory Spice Wash Park Seasoning)
• 1 teaspoons shallot salt (such as Savory Spice Supreme Shallot Salt)
• 1 pounds bone-in, thick-cut, frozen pork chops
• 6 ounces portobello mushrooms, quartered
• cup whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• teaspoon browning sauce

Directions

Step 1: Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot) and select the Saut function. Once the pot is hot, add the butter.

Step 2: Add the sliced onion and stir frequently until it becomes soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the garlic base and pour in the water. Stir to combine everything well.

Step 4: In a small bowl, mix together the all-purpose seasoning and shallot salt. Sprinkle this mixture on both sides of the pork chops.

Step 5: Nestle the seasoned pork chops on top of the onion mixture in the pot.

Step 6: Press Cancel on the pressure cooker, seal and lock the lid into place.

Step 7: Select high pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions and set the timer for 13 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build up.

Step 8: Once the timer goes off, release the pressure using the natural-release method for 12 minutes.

Step 9: Release any remaining pressure carefully using the quick-release method for about 5 minutes. Unlock and remove the lid.

Step 10: Carefully remove the pork chops from the pot and set them on a plate. Press Cancel and switch the pressure cooker to the Saut function.

Step 11: Add the portobello mushrooms to the pot and stir for a minute.

Step 12: In a measuring cup, whisk together the whipping cream, flour, and browning sauce.

Step 13: Pour this cream mixture into the pot and allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3 minutes, while stirring occasionally.

Step 14: Ladle the mushroom gravy on top of the pork chops. Serve immediately.

Recipe Tip

If you don't have the seasonings mentioned, you can substitute garlic salt and a pepper, garlic, and onion seasoning blend; however, it will not taste exactly the same.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 266
• Total Fat: 17g (22% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 9g (45% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 77mg (26% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 805mg (35% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 11g (4% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 18g (37% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (5% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 54mg (4% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (6% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 536mg (11% Daily Value)

* 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.

Frozen Pork Chops in the Instant Pot is a delicious and convenient recipe for busy weeknights. The beauty of this recipe is that it allows you to cook frozen pork chops directly in an Instant Pot, cutting down on preparation time and eliminating the need for defrosting. The dish is paired with a creamy mushroom gravy that adds a savory, rich flavor, making it a comforting meal. Here, well explore the origins of the recipe, its regional significance, how it differs from similar dishes, and other interesting facts.

History and Origins

The origins of the pork chop can be traced back to Europe, particularly in the Mediterranean regions, where pigs were first domesticated around 5000 BC. Over time, pork became one of the most common meats in various cultures, with different preparations emerging in countries like Germany, Spain, and Italy. The concept of cooking pork chops in a pressure cooker, however, is a more modern innovation that aligns with the rise of convenient, fast-cooking methods in the 20th century. The Instant Pot, a Canadian invention from the early 2000s, revolutionized home cooking by combining multiple kitchen appliances in one. This recipe specifically highlights the ease of preparing frozen pork chops, making it a favorite among busy families and those with little time to cook but who still want a home-cooked meal.

Regional Features

The Instant Pot itself is a testament to North American efficiency, and this dish falls squarely into American comfort food. Pork chops are a staple in American cooking, often served with mashed potatoes or vegetables. While pork is enjoyed globally, the way it's prepared varies significantly by region. In the United States, pork chops are often pan-fried, grilled, or roasted, and in recent years, pressure cooking has become a popular method for producing tender meat in less time. The addition of mushrooms and a creamy gravy is a feature commonly seen in Southern cooking, which is known for its rich sauces and gravies that complement meats.

How This Dish Differs from Similar Recipes

Frozen Pork Chops in the Instant Pot differs from many traditional pork chop recipes in that it allows you to cook meat directly from frozen. This is a major time-saver, as typically pork chops need to be thawed before cooking, a process that can take hours. Additionally, unlike standard pork chop preparations that often require baking or pan-frying, this recipe takes advantage of the Instant Pots pressure-cooking ability to tenderize even tough cuts of meat in a fraction of the time. Moreover, the inclusion of a creamy mushroom gravy sets this dish apart from simpler pork chop recipes, adding both richness and depth of flavor.

Where Its Typically Served

Frozen Pork Chops in the Instant Pot is a versatile dish that can be served for various occasions. It is most commonly seen as a weeknight dinner in American homes, especially for busy families. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, making it a hearty meal. It can also be served at casual gatherings or family dinners where comfort food is preferred. Additionally, the creamy mushroom gravy makes it an excellent choice for dinner parties when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Interesting Facts

• The Instant Pot was invented by Robert Wang, a former software engineer, in 2009. It quickly became one of the most popular kitchen appliances worldwide.
• Pork chops are considered one of the oldest types of meat dishes in human history, with records dating back to the Ancient Romans, who would cook pork in a variety of ways.
• Pressure cooking was first developed in the 17th century, and it became a household staple during the mid-20th century, with modern versions like the Instant Pot making it accessible to home cooks.
• Did you know that using a pressure cooker can preserve more nutrients in food compared to traditional cooking methods because it cooks faster and at a higher pressure?

FAQ about Frozen Pork Chops in the Instant Pot Recipe

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