When I was growing up, eating any kind of red meat was an absolutely revolting thought. Beef... not a fan. Pork... maybe. Ham... forget it. Up until I met my husband, it was very rare for me to eat or even cook some sort of red meat.
After we got married and moved in together, it became apparent that I was going to be cooking red meat. It was also apparent that I would have to eat the red meat ..... or possibly go hungry. Just kidding. I definitely cook healthier meats, such as fish and chicken, more often.
So what happens on the days when a time consuming pork or steak recipe is not option? You know... the days when your dog needs to be walked, the kids need homework help, your neighbor stops by at random and the dishes aren't washed. Suddenly a 90-minute braised pork recipe begins to look less and less likely.
Fear not... there are plenty of quick fix options that will still create a delicious dish.
Quick Fix Ideas:
1.) 10-Minute Breaded Pork Chops: 1 cup of garlic bread crumbs, 1/4 TBSP of onion powder, 1/4 TBSP of Thyme, salt and pepper. I don't bother messing with the flour and egg prior to the bread crumb dunk. This will still give you a crispy, tasteful crunch in less time. If you don't have garlic bread crumbs, then add a 1/3 TBSP of garlic powder to the mixture. Mix thoroughly in a small bowl. Evenly coat the boneless pork chops in the bread crumbs. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes at 425.
2.) 10 minute marinade: 1 1/2 TBSP Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 TBSP oregano, 1 TBSP extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 TBSP of soy sauce, 1 TBSP Italian dressing, salt, pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Mix together and add to a large plastic zip bag. Add the pork or beef to the bag. Make sure the meat is evenly coated. Set aside or in the refrigerator for 10 or 15 minutes. Grill or bake for 15 - 20 minutes. It's just that easy.
Quick fix ideas are very helpful on days when dinner is a last minute thought. Do what ever you can to avoid running out to the local fast food restaurant or ordering a pizza. Although, I am plenty guilty of doing this too.
Jon and I are blessed to have an ice chest freezer in our basement. I usually watch for meat sales at the local grocery store and stock up when we can. Typically, I will have a lot of fish, chicken and pork in stock.
Hopefully these quick fix tips are helpful to you and your family. Take care, readers. Have an excellent week.
Coming soon: Flashback Friday - Chili
We could all use a hint of more time.
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