There are a lot of things that go into making the perfect pork chops. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. With our simple tips and tricks, you’ll be cooking up delicious pork chops in no time.
Introduction: Why pork chops?
Pork chops are a classic favourite for a reason: They’re versatile, easy to cook, and economical. When properly seasoned and cooked to the right temperature, pork chops are juicy, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, pork chops make an excellent main course.
The perfect pork chop: what to look for
When shopping for pork chops, you should look for cuts that are about 1-inch thick and bone-in. These types of pork chops will have the most flavour and will stay juicier during the cooking process. Avoid pre-packaged pork chops that are injected with a saline solution — they may be juicier, but they will also be saltier. Always choose organic pork: Learn about the different pork classifications here.
The perfect pork chop: how to cook it
Pork chops are a quick and easy weeknight meal, but all too often they turn out dry, tough, or both. Here’s how to avoid that fate and cook the perfect pork chop.
Season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. Then, let them sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This will help them cook more evenly.
When you’re ready to cook, heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Add the pork chops to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through. (A good way to tell is to insert a digital meat thermometer into the centre of the chop—it should read 60°C.)
Remove the pork chops from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will give them time to reabsorb their juices, making them even more flavorful and tender.
The perfect pork chop: what to serve with it
Providing you’ve chosen the right pork chops, and followed our tips, they’ll surely turn out delicious. But if you want to take them to the next level, consider serving them with one of these five dishes.
1. Mashed potatoes: This classic comfort food is the perfect partner for pork chops. The creaminess of the potatoes offsets the richness of the meat, and the two flavours complement each other perfectly.
2. Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables are a healthy and flavourful side dish that pairs well with pork chops. Try roasting a mix of vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
3. Salad: A simple green salad is a light and refreshing side dish that goes well with pork chops. Add some diced apple or pear for sweetness and some crumbled blue cheese for richness.
4. Fruit salad: A fruit salad is a delightful way to round out a meal featuring pork chops. Choose seasonal fruits, such as apples, pears, or citrus, and mix them with a light dressing made from yoghurt or honey.
The perfect pork chop: leftovers and storage
Once cooked, pork chops can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, or in the freezer for up to six months. When storing cooked pork chops, be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil.
To reheat pork chops, bake them in a 180°C oven until they are heated through. Pork chops can also be reheated in the microwave, but they may dry out more quickly this way.
Troubleshooting: common problems with pork chops
One common problem when cooking pork chops is that they can easily become dry and tough. This is especially true if you are cooking lean pork chops with little fat. There are a few things you can do to avoid this:
– Use a marinade: A good marinade will help to keep your pork chops moist and flavorful.
– Cook them on the stovetop: Pork chops are best cooked on the stovetop over medium-high heat. This will give you more control over the cooking process and help to prevent them from drying out.
– Don’t overcook them: pork chops should be cooked until they are just slightly pink in the centre. overcooked pork chops will be dry and tough.
