
As a parent, I’m always on the lookout for meals that are not only delicious and nutritious but also easy on the wallet. Pork chops have become a favorite in our household for precisely these reasons. They add a nice variety to our protein rotation and are an affordable cut of meat that fits perfectly into a family budget. Today, I want to share my toddler-friendly fried pork chop recipe that has become a hit in our home.
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops
- 2 eggs
- A few tablespoons of flour
- Lemon pepper seasoning
- Soy sauce
- Panko bread crumbs
- Avocado oil (for frying)
- White rice
- Bagged salad
- Cucumbers
Instructions:
- Tenderize the Pork Chops: Start by tenderizing the pork chops using the back of your knife. This helps make them more tender and easier for little ones to chew.
- Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and a few tablespoons of flour until you achieve a pancake batter consistency. Season the batter with lemon pepper seasoning and a splash of soy sauce for flavor.
- Coat the Pork Chops: Dunk each pork chop into the batter, ensuring they are well coated. Then, press them into a plate of panko bread crumbs, taking your time to make sure they are thoroughly covered. This step is crucial for that perfect, crispy texture.
- Fry the Pork Chops: Heat a shallow pan with avocado oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops and fry for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Let them drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Cut the pork chops into strips, making them easy for toddlers to handle. Serve over a bed of white rice, which is a staple in our home at least three times a week. Add a bagged salad and some cut-up cucumbers for a complete, balanced meal. Feel free to serve with any vegetables your toddler likes to make it even more appealing.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Variety: Pork chops are a great way to diversify your protein sources, ensuring your family doesn’t get bored with the same meals.
- Affordability: Pork chops are a budget-friendly option, making them perfect for families looking to save on grocery bills.
- Kid-Friendly: The crispy, fried coating is similar enough to chicken nuggets, which makes it more likely that your toddler will be eager to taste and enjoy. Plus, involving them in the preparation process can make them more interested in the meal.
Tips:
- Get Your Toddler Involved: Let your little one help with the battering process. It’s messy but fun, and they’re more likely to eat something they helped create.
- Customization: This recipe is versatile—feel free to adjust the seasonings to your family’s taste or try different dipping sauces on the side.
With this easy and delicious recipe, you’ll have a new, balanced meal to add to your dinner repertoire that both you and your toddler will love. Enjoy!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
One Response