CiberCuba Cocina
Smoked loin with roasted potatoes and onion | Photo © CiberCuba Cocina

Smoked pork chops

Kitchen, Main course

Kitchen, Main dish

Spices
Vegetables
Pork
Dad
Preparation Time:
40
Note:
Smoked pork chop is a fillet prepared in brine with a touch of smokiness as its name indicates. This meat enjoys great popularity in Cuba and various dishes are made with it. In Europe, it can be purchased in butcher shops under the name of chop or fillet of Saxe. It is believed that this way of preparing pork comes from the Hesse region in Germany, where they are known as "Kasseler." However, some say it was the idea of a German butcher with the last name Cassel, and in honor of him, it also carries this name. We know that, like the German butcher, there are people in Cuba who know the formula to smoke meat. However, we also know that Creole cooks do not always guarantee hygienic measures or the exact dosage of nitrite salt and other components that the process may require. For that reason, we do not share the formula for making smoked loin or leg ham on this page. The dish we propose is made with smoked pork chops purchased from a butcher shop, because it is the safest option for the health of ourselves, you, and those who join you in enjoying this delicious meal. It is a simple, tasty, and easy-to-make recipe. I hope you enjoy it.
Ingredients:
  • 6 smoked pork chops
  • 1 onion
  • ¼ cup of oil or lard
  • 4 medium potatoes
  • Salt, oregano, and pepper to taste
Instructions:

Start by roasting the potatoes because that will take the most time. Wash the potatoes and cut them into rounds. Place them on a previously greased baking tray to prevent sticking. Season with salt and pepper, and add oregano to taste.

Smoked pork chops / CiberCuba Cocina

If you want, you can also add a drizzle of oil so that the potatoes brown and have more shine. Place them in the oven at a temperature of 200ºC (392ºF) for 20 minutes. This is an approximate time and may vary depending on the characteristics of the oven and the number of potatoes you use based on the number of diners.

Baked Potatoes / CiberCuba Kitchen

In a skillet, add a little oil to your liking. I suggest not using too much because this meat releases its own fat. The amount indicated in the ingredients is sufficient for the potatoes and the meat. Place the skillet over medium heat and brown the chops for about 3 minutes on each side. Repeat the flipping process if necessary until the meat is cooked and has a golden color.

Smoked boneless pork chops / CiberCuba Cocina

Remove the chops from the heat and in the remaining fat in the pan, add the previously cut onions, either in rounds or finely julienned. Keep the heat low to prevent them from burning. Let them cook for about 10 minutes. This will make them golden and very sweet, providing a contrast of flavor to the salty and smoky meat.

Smoked pork chops with onion / CiberCuba Cocina

Serve the chops accompanied by onion and roasted potatoes. You can also present them with a warm vegetable salad.

Smoked loin with vegetable salad / CiberCuba Cocina

We hope you enjoy this delicious recipe. Bon appétit!!

Rations:
4
Spices
Vegetables
Pork
Dad