Bananas Add Texture, Character to Unusual Pork Chop Dish

Easy Pork Chop Saute can be made in just minutes and slices of sauteed bananas make it irresistible. Cooking bananas lightly in a hot skillet gives them an entirely new character. Combining with chops that were simmered in a curry powder, cumin and orange juice mixture, adds an exotic touch.

Choose firm bananas with a hint of green at the tip for cooking. They will hold their texture and are not too sweet. Store ripe bananas in the refrigerator for a week or slightly more. The peels may darken, but inside, the fruit is good and fresh.

EASY PORK CHOP SAUTE

2 firm, medium bananas, peeled

2 tablespoons oil

2 pork chops, 1/4-inch thick

Salt, pepper

3/4 teaspoon curry powder

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

3/4 cup orange juice

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon cornstarch

Cut bananas in half crosswise, then lengthwise to make 8 slices.

Saute in hot oil until browned, shaking skillet occasionally. Remove bananas to plate.

Sprinkle pork with salt and pepper to taste and half of curry and cumin. Saute pork on both sides, then drain fat from skillet.

Combine remaining curry and cumin, orange juice, honey and cornstarch and stir into skillet with pork. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, 8 to 10 minutes. Arrange bananas and pork on 2 serving plates and spoon sauce over all. Makes 2 servings.