Stuffed Pork Chops with Asparagus and Pecan Sauce

Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

• 6 center-cut pork chops, each about 1 1/2 inches thick
• 5 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 tbsp finely chopped celery
• 2 tbsp finely chopped tasso or smoked ham
• 1/4 tbsp chopped pecans
• 2 slices of bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• Salt, freshly ground black pepper, and cayenne to taste
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup Italian-style bread crumbs

• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 6 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans
• Lemon zest for garnish