Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This Kan Kan Pork Chop recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It's a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors that will quickly become a family favorite. This homemade cooking masterpiece requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for even the most novice cooks. Get ready to experience a delicious dish that's both healthy and satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish, chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. This creates the flavorful marinade for your pork chops.
Marinate the pork:
- Add the pork chops to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor absorption. The longer they marinate, the more tender and flavorful they become.
Cook the pork chops:
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet.
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Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the pork chops are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
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Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
Serve and enjoy:
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve your Kan Kan Pork Chops immediately with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. This complete meal is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Kan Kan Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the pork chops in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, add more for an intensely sweet flavor.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Use bone-in chops: For a richer flavor, use bone-in pork chops. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Variations:
- Kan Kan Chicken: Replace pork chops with chicken breasts or thighs for a delicious variation.
- Kan Kan Tofu: Use firm or extra-firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Marinate the tofu for at least an hour to allow it to absorb the flavors fully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe offers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal! This is one of the best recipes for a satisfying and effortless weeknight dinner.