Monégasque-style Pork Chop Sandwich

Ingredients

In the original Chinese version, the pork chops are often marinated in soy sauce and Chinese spices, then deep-fried. However, in the Monégasque adaptation, the marinade incorporates Mediterranean herbs like thyme and rosemary, and the pork chops are pan-fried instead of deep-fried. Additionally, the Chinese version is typically served with steamed buns, while the Monégasque version uses a crusty bun. We alse have the original recipe for Pork Chop Bun, so you can check it out.

• 4 pork chops (200g each) 4 pork chops (200g each)
• 4 crusty buns 4 crusty buns
• 4 tablespoons olive oil (60ml) 4 tablespoons olive oil (60ml)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Tomato relish, for serving Tomato relish, for serving
• Crispy fries, for serving Crispy fries, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, thyme leaves, rosemary leaves, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Rub the mixture onto both sides of the pork chops, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork chops and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
4. 4.
   Remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.
5. 5.
   Slice the crusty buns in half and lightly toast them.
6. 6.
   Place a cooked pork chop on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a spoonful of tomato relish.
7. 7.
   Serve the Monégasque-style Pork Chop Sandwiches with a side of crispy fries.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork chops — Choose boneless pork chops with a moderate amount of fat for juiciness and flavor.
• Crusty buns — Opt for fresh, crusty buns with a soft interior to complement the texture of the pork chops.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops overnight in the refrigerator.
• Add a slice of cheese, such as Gruyère or Emmental, to the sandwich for a creamy touch.
• Customize the tomato relish by adding chopped onions, bell peppers, or chili for a spicy kick.
• Serve the sandwich with a side of mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can grill the pork chops instead of pan-frying them.

Serving advice

Serve the Monégasque-style Pork Chop Sandwiches warm, allowing the flavors to meld together. Accompany them with a side of crispy fries and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

To present the sandwich beautifully, place the pork chop on the bottom half of the bun, followed by a dollop of tomato relish. Top it with the other half of the bun and secure it with a decorative toothpick. Serve the sandwich on a wooden board or a plate lined with parchment paper for a rustic touch.