Pork Makes Versatile, Tasty Meals

With the look at modern hog production article on AC we know pork is a safe, nutritious meat to eat. October is one time that, as designated national pork month, we celebrate the hog and the contribution pork makes to the table.

From bacon and sausage to ham and pork chops, pork is a safe way to get nutrition. It's also easy to make in a variety of ways.

Pork chops should be cooked until done but not overcooked, which reduces the taste and dries out the meat. An easy pork chop meal can be done by preheating the oven to 400F and baking six pork chops for 20 minutes. While baking combine a can of Italian tomato soup, a tablespoon each of water, white vinegar Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar and a half teaspoon hot pepper sauce. Spoon this mixture over chops and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes or until done. Easy and tasty!

Another easy one is frying 6 chops over medium heat in a small amount of vegetable oil until browned on both sides. Remove from heat and combine a can of mushroom soup, ¼ cup water and heat to boiling, returning the chops to the pan. Cover and reduce heat to simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Use boneless pork chops for a stroganoff style pork chop. Combine 1/3 cup flour and a half teaspoon seasoned salt in a small bowl, coating six pork chops with the mixture before browning them in a lightly greased skillet. Drain and combine a packet of brown gravy mix, prepared as directed on the packet, and pour over the chops topping it with onion slices. Cover the pan and simmer for 30 minutes, then uncover and simmer an additional 15, or until meat is done. Remove chops, add to the gravy 4 ounces of mushrooms and a half cup sour cream, heating for 3 minutes and pouring over the chops.

These are just three ways to highlight pork. Pork roast is even easier - place in a crockpot with a small amount of water, seasoning and a sliced onion. Slow cook this on low until it falls apart. Add BBQ sauce to taste and use for pulled pork sandwiches, top over potatoes or other creative ways.

Dozens of recipes are easily found online, and you'll find pork is a nutritious and tasty part of the diet. America's hog farmers work hard to deliver a safe food that tastes good and is versatile. A look at the meat counter shows they're doing well!