PORK CHOPS SMOTHERED WITH FENNEL AND GARLIC

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 225 degrees.
• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat chops dry and add to skillet. Cook 5 to 6 minutes on each side or until deep golden brown. Pour off fat.
• Remove skillet from heat (leave pork chops in skillet) and add garlic. Cook 1 minute in the hot skillet.
• Return skillet to heat and add 1 cup broth, the wine and fennel, and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer covered 5 minutes.
• Remove chops to a pie plate or other ovenproof dish and cover lightly with foil (set skillet aside). Place chops in the oven and cook 10 to 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer registers 160 degrees when placed near the bone.
• Meanwhile, simmer the sauce in the skillet 5 minutes or until reduced slightly.
• In a small cup or bowl mix remaining 1/4 cup broth (it should be cold or room temperature) with the cornstarch. Add this mixture to the sauce and boil 1 minute, or until lightly thickened. Taste, adding salt and pepper, if desired. Serve chops "smothered" with sauce.