Indulge in a captivating experience with the crispy oven-fried pork chops paired with the thrilling pages of "The Death of Mrs. Westaway" by Ruth Ware. This pairing is the epitome of a cozy night in, delighting in the crunch of golden breadcrumbs as you unravel the secrets in Ware's gripping mystery. Accompanied by a refreshing glass of Elderflower Spritz, this trio creates an atmosphere of suspense balanced with soothing flavors, making it perfect for a relaxed yet engaging evening. Both the book and the beverage complement the dish's simplicity and depth, promising a memorable and delightful experience.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme or oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Set up the dredging station: Place the flour in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Coat the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip the chop into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chop into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.
- Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the breaded pork chops on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the tops of the chops with olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp up during baking.
- Bake: Bake the pork chops in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, you can broil the chops for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, oven-fried meal!
The Death of Mrs. Westaway
On a day that begins like any other, Hal receives a mysterious letter bequeathing her a substantial inheritance. She realizes very quickly that the letter was sent to the wrong person—but also that the skills she’s honed as a tarot card reader might help her claim the money. Soon, Hal finds herself at the funeral of the deceased…where it dawns on her that there is something very, very wrong about this strange situation and the inheritance at the center of it.
A “perfectly executed suspense tale very much in the mode of Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca” (The Washington Post) from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of In a Dark, Dark Wood, The Woman in Cabin 10, The Lying Game, and The Turn of the Key. On a day that begins like any other, Hal receives a mysterious letter bequeathing her a substantial inheritance. She realizes very quickly that the letter was sent to the wrong person—but also that the cold-reading skills she’s honed as a tarot card reader might help her claim the money. Soon, Hal finds herself at the funeral of the deceased…where it dawns on her that there is something very, very wrong about this strange situation and the inheritance at the center of it. Full of spellbinding menace and told in Ruth Ware’s signature suspenseful style, this is a “captivating and eerie page-turner” (The Wall Street Journal) from the Agatha Christie of our time.
Discussion Questions
- What was your initial impression of Hal as a protagonist?
- How does Hal’s background as a tarot card reader shape the narrative?
- Discuss the family dynamics portrayed in the novel.
- What role does the setting of Trepassen House play in the story?
- How does the theme of deception manifest throughout the novel?
- In what ways does the novel explore class and inheritance?
- What did you think of the novel’s pacing and suspense?
- How does Ruth Ware use minor characters to advance the story?
- What are the key turning points in the plot?
- How did you interpret the ending of the novel?
Authors:
Ruth Ware
ISBN: 9781501156212
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published Date: 2018-05-29
ISBN: 9781501156212
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published Date: 2018-05-29
Elderflower Spritz
A light and refreshing cocktail perfect for pairing with savory dishes like crispy pork chops. The delicate sweetness of elderflower combined with sparkling wine creates an elegant sip that complements any meal, refreshing your palate between bites.
Ingredients
- 2 oz elderflower liqueur
- 3 oz Prosecco or sparkling wine
- Club soda
- Ice
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Add 2 oz of elderflower liqueur.
- Pour 3 oz of Prosecco or sparkling wine.
- Top off with a splash of club soda.
- Garnish with a lemon slice and fresh mint leaves.