Makes 4 servings

4 double-cut veal loin chops (12 to 14 ounces each)
4 teaspoons Creole Seasoning
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup bleached all-purpose flour
2 medium-size yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
1/2 pound assorted exotic mushrooms, such as shiitakes, chanterelles, and oysters, wiped clean and chopped (about 3 cups)
2 1/2 ounces tasso, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
1 tablespoon chopped garlic
2 1/2 cups Chicken Stock
1 tablespoon choppedfresh parsley leaves
3 tablespoons chopped green onions (scallions), green parts only
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Season the chops with the Creole Seasoning, rubbing it in evenly.

Heat the oil in a large saute pan over medium heat. Sear the chops until golden brown but not charred, 5 to 6 minutes, and turn over. Sear for 3 minutes on the second side for rare, or 5 minutes for medium-rare. Remove from the heat and transfer the chops to a heated platter.

Add the flour to the skillet and whisk until the mixture is smooth. Return to the heat. Cook, stirring constantly until the mixture is the color of chocolate, about 3 minutes. Add the onions, salt, and cayenne and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the mushrooms, tasso, and garlic and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add the stock, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and simmer for about 2 minutes. Return the chops to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes, basting often, Remove from the heat and stir in the parsley, green onions, and black pepper.

Serve the chops warm with the pan gravy.

Stocking Tip: Tasso is a heavily seasoned smoked ham used often in Louisiana for flavoring vegetables, stews, gumbos, and sauces. It can be found in some supermarkets. Spiced ham can be substituted.

From Emeril's Creole Christmas by Emeril Lagasse. HarperCollins Publishers. Used by permission.