Recipe: Sesame Crusted Pork Chops with Maple Vegetable Stir-Fry

SESAME CRUSTED PORK CHOPS WITH MAPLE VEGETABLE STIR-FRY

"Black sesame seed creates a colorful crust for pork chops, while sealing in the juices. Maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to balance the heat and offer unique flavor."

FOR THE PORK CHOPS:
1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/4 cup McCormick Gourmet Collection Black Sesame Seed
1 teaspoon McCormick Garlic Powder, divided
1 teaspoon salt
6 boneless pork chops (about 3/4-inch thick)
3 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
FOR THE MAPLE VEGETABLE STIR-FRY:
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup light soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon McCormick Crushed Red Pepper
1 medium red onion, cut into thin wedges (1 1/2 cups)
1 medium red bell pepper, cut into bite-size strips (1 cup)
1 package (6 ounces) baby spinach leaves

Mix breadcrumbs, sesame seed, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and salt on a plate. Moisten pork chops lightly with water. Coat evenly with crumb mixture.

Heat 2 tablespoons of the sesame oil in large nonstick skillet on medium heat. Add pork chops; cook 8 minutes or until desired doneness, turning once. Remove from skillet; keep warm.

Mix maple syrup, soy sauce, vinegar, remaining 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, cornstarch and crushed red pepper in small bowl until smooth; set aside. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon sesame oil in skillet on medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook and stir 3 minutes. Restir maple syrup mixture. Add to skillet; stirring constantly, bring to boil, 1 minute. Pour into large bowl. Add spinach; toss gently just until spinach is wilted. Slice pork chops and serve over spinach mixture.

Makes 6 servings

Nutritional Information Per Serving: About 389 Calories, Fat 21g, Protein 28g, Carbohydrates 22g, Cholesterol 70mg, Sodium 952mg, Fiber 3g

Source: McCormick & Company, Inc.