Mozzarella-Stuffed Pork Chops with Polenta and Tomatoes

Ingredients for Mozzarella-Stuffed Pork Chops with Polenta and Tomatoes

• 240ml quick-cooking polenta

• 4 (1-inch) thick bone-in pork chops (about 1.1kg total)

• 4 (1/4-inch) thick slices smoked mozzarella (about 100g )

• 20ml anchovy paste, divided

• 60ml plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

• 1 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, divided

• 4 garlic cloves, smashed

• 1125ml grape tomatoes (about 850ml )

• 120ml low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

• 1/2 cup milk

• Chopped flat-leaf parsley, for serving

• toothpicks

Preheat grill on high and set oven rack 4 inches from heat. Line grill pan or rimmed baking sheet with foil.

In a medium saucepan, prepare polenta according to package directions.

While polenta is cooking, prepare the pork chops. Place chops flat on cutting board and, using a sharp paring knife, make a horizontal slit 3 to 4 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches long in the side of each chop. Spread each mozzarella slice with 1 teaspoon anchovy paste. Stuff a piece of mozzarella inside each chop, press the pork closed, and secure with a toothpick.

Rub the chops with 1 tablespoon oil, season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoons pepper, and place on the foil-lined pan. Grill until cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm remaining 60ml oil. Add garlic, tomatoes, and broth. Cover and cook until tomatoes softened and just beginning to burst, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove cover and discard garlic. Stir in 1 tablespoon butter, 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoons pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.

When the polenta is cooked, whisk in enough milk to thin the polenta to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Serve pork chops over polenta, topped with tomato pan sauce and parsley.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.