Beef chops can be a delicious and hearty dish when prepared with the right ingredients and cooking techniques. Here's a classic recipe for tender and flavorful beef chops:
Ingredients:
- 4 beef chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or red wine (for deglazing)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
Instructions:
Marinate the beef chops: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture all over the beef chops. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably, overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Sear the beef chops: Heat a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a nice crust. This step helps to lock in the juices and enhance the flavor.
Finish in the oven: Once the beef chops are seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes (depending on the desired doneness and thickness of the chops). Use an oven thermometer to check the internal temperature: 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.
Deglaze the pan: Remove the cooked beef chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate. Place the skillet back on the stovetop over medium heat. Pour in the beef broth or red wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits (these add great flavor to the sauce).
Create the sauce: If you prefer a richer sauce, you can swirl in a tablespoon of butter at this stage and mix it with the pan juices. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly.
Serve: Plate the beef chops and drizzle the sauce over them. They go well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your delicious and succulent beef chops!