Go Back
–+ servings
Pork Chops
This handwritten pork chop recipe reflects practical, mid-century home cooking, where one pan did double duty and nothing went to waste. The first method focuses on simple pan-fried chops, cooked slowly and carefully turned for tenderness, while the second expands into a hearty skillet meal with rice, vegetables, and tomatoes simmered together. Recipes like this were designed for busy kitchens, relying on timing and instinct more than precise measurements. The result is a comforting, savory dish that bridges everyday supper and special family meals, offering both simplicity and flexibility depending on what was on hand.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
  • 2 tbsp lard (or cooking oil)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 onion (medium, sliced)
  • 2 celery stalks (cut into large pieces)
  • 14 oz stewed tomatoes
  • 1 to 2 cups water (as needed)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Heat the Pan

  • Heat a large frying pan over medium heat.
  • Add lard or oil and allow it to get hot.

Step 2: Brown the Pork Chops

  • Place pork chops in the pan.
  • Brown on both sides, turning every 10 seconds for the first 3 minutes.

Step 3: Cook Slowly

  • Reduce heat and continue cooking, turning occasionally.
  • Cook until done, about 20 minutes total for 1/2-inch chops.

Step 4: Add Rice and Vegetables

  • Push chops to the side of the pan.
  • Add rice, green pepper, onion, and celery around the chops.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

  • Pour in stewed tomatoes and enough water to just cover rice.
  • Cover and simmer on low heat for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Tips

  • Use bone-in chops for deeper flavor
  • Substitute brown rice, adding extra liquid
  • Add garlic for more savory depth
  • Try canned diced tomatoes with herbs
  • Include carrots or mushrooms for variety
  • Finish with fresh parsley
  • Use cast iron for best browning
  • Serve with crusty bread
  • Add paprika or thyme for seasoning
  • Make ahead and reheat gently

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 32gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 780mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 820IUVitamin C: 38mgCalcium: 65mgIron: 3.4mg
Keyword comfort food, home cooking, one-pan meal, pork, skillet dinner, vintage recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!