Basic Pork Chops with Onions and Spices

Pork is very nutritious (loaded with vitamins) and cheap, so everyone should know how to do basic pork chops.   For students and singles, who don't generally cook, learn this standby.

Buy the cheapest pork on sale, with as much fat and bone as possible.   Yes, that is where the taste and nutrition is.   Pork steaks are the tastiest and cheapest so watch for them.

I have provided two versions, one with onions, one with the addition of spices.

The method is called braising, which is cooking with liquid.  It takes a little more cooking time but prep time is minimal.  

Ingredients:
1-2 large white or yellow onions

1 to 4 pork chops or steaks
1-2 Tbsp. olive oil
Spices (optional): 4-5 whole juniper berries, 1 star anise, 1 tsp. cumin seeds, and 4-5 green cardamon.  Crush slightly in a mortar and pestle. 

Instructions:
Heat a large saute pan on medium heat.
When the edge of the pan is hot to the touch, add oil and heat.
Meanwhile, peel and slice the onions into thin slices.
Saute the onions until soft and starting to turn brown (caramelize).  Toss frequently with tongs so they don't burn.
Remove the onions to a bowl.
Meanwhile, season pork with salt and pepper on one side. 
Add a bit more oil to the pan and heat.
Sear the pork chops on both sides.   Leave the meat in place until it loosens on its own.
While searing, prepare spices and fry them beside the meat in a little oil.
Once the pork is brown on both sides, add back the onions and a quarter cup of water.
Then immediately put the lid on the pan.
Turn down the heat, and simmer for 45 minutes.