Are you craving a truly delicious and satisfying meal that’s also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for the best Filipino pork chop will become a staple in your kitchen. Forget bland, dry pork; this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful pork chops bursting with authentic Filipino tastes. It’s a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both quick and incredibly rewarding. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
Instructions:
Marinating the Pork Chops (the secret to juicy perfection!):
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, calamansi juice, brown sugar, white vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. This creates the flavorful marinade that will tenderize and season your pork chops beautifully.
- Add the pork chops to the marinade, ensuring they're fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. The longer they marinate, the more tender and delicious they’ll be!
Cooking the Pork Chops:
- Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the pork chops from the marinade, reserving the marinade.
- Place the pork chops in the hot skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned.
- Pour the reserved marinade over the pork chops. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the juices run clear. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious Filipino pork chops hot with steamed rice and your favorite side dishes. A simple green salad or sauteed vegetables would complement this dish perfectly.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Pork Chop Thickness: Using pork chops of consistent thickness ensures even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, or other seasonings to your liking.
Variations:
- Spicy Pork Chops: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Lovers: Add minced fresh garlic to the marinade for an extra punch of garlic flavor.
- Pineapple Infusion: Add a 1/4 cup of crushed pineapple to the marinade for a sweet and tangy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30-35g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This easy recipe for delicious Filipino pork chops is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of the Philippines from the comfort of your own kitchen! It’s a testament to how simple ingredients and a little time can create truly memorable and satisfying dishes. Happy cooking!