Pork Chops au Poivre

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Coarsely crush peppercorns by gently pounding once or twice with a heavy skillet. Pat chops dry and sprinkle both sides evenly with salt and peppercorns, pressing to help them adhere.

   Step 2

   Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderate heat until hot but not smoking, then cook 2 chops, turning over once, until browned and just cooked through, 4 to 6 minutes total. Transfer to a plate and wipe out skillet. Cook remaining 2 chops in remaining tablespoon oil in same manner, transferring to plate. (Do not wipe out skillet after second batch.)

   Step 3

   Add Sherry to skillet and boil, scraping up any brown bits, until reduced by half, about 1 minute. Add cream and any meat juices accumulated on plate, then boil, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Season sauce with salt and serve over chops.