A Taste of Germany: Pork Chops with Mustard Cream Sauce

There's something quite magical about the way a creamy sauce can transform the simple pork chop into a dish that feels both cozy and extraordinary. This recipe for German Pork Chops with Mustard Cream Sauce brings a piece of German cuisine right into your kitchen. Perfect for those who want to try something new or just bring a different twist to their weeknight dinner routine.

When I first tried these pork chops at a small, family-run restaurant in Berlin, I knew I needed to recreate that rich, comforting taste at home. It's a delightful recipe—one that respects the tenderness of pork while enhancing it with the zing of mustard and the richness of a creamy sauce. Don't worry if you're a beginner! I’ll guide you through each step, ensuring your cooking experience is as smooth as the sauce you’ll soon be making.

Ingredients Needed

First, let's start with what you'll need. This recipe serves four, making it perfect for a family dinner or saving leftovers for lunches:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp whole grain mustard
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, or 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have your ingredients, let's start cooking:

  1. Prepare the Pork: Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This not only helps to enhance their flavor but also helps to create a golden crust when seared.
  2. Sear the Pork: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onion and cook until they are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor!
  5. Add Mustard and Cream: Stir in both types of mustard and then pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
  6. Cook the Pork: Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them. Cover the skillet with a lid and let them simmer gently in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through.
  7. Finish with Thyme: Sprinkle the thyme over the sauce and give it a gentle stir to incorporate.

Check the seasoning and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve the pork chops with a generous amount of the mustard cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

These pork chops are wonderfully versatile:

  • To Keep it Light: Serve them with a side of steamed broccoli or braised red cabbage.
  • For a Hearty Meal: A side of mashed potatoes or German potato salad can complement the rich sauce beautifully.
  • A Simple Option: A crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the sauce perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re dining alone or impressing guests, these German Pork Chops with Mustard Cream Sauce promise to deliver comfort and flavor in every bite. The simplicity of the ingredients and the richness of the sauce paired with tender pork makes this dish not just a meal, but an experience to remember.

The warmth of the sauce and the perfectly cooked pork chops can turn any dinner into a special occasion. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious, culinary trip to Germany tonight? Happy cooking!