Black Pepper Pork Chops Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming humble ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish, and these perfectly seared, juicy pork chops with a rosemary-infused glaze are a testament to that magic. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Sink into a delectable experience with my Black Pepper Pork Chops. Their robust flavor pairs just perfectly with that hint of garlic and onion powder.

Seared in olive oil with a touch of soy sauce, the very juicy chops become an irresistibly mouthwatering experience.

Black Pepper Pork Chops Recipe Ingredients

• Pork Chops: Rich in protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, they’re satisfying and hearty.
• Black Pepper: Adds a spicy, aromatic kick enhancing the meat’s natural flavors.
• Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats, providing moisture and aiding in flavor absorption.
• Garlic Powder: Offers a savory, umami depth, complementing the pork’s richness.
• Onion Powder: Enhances flavor with mild sweetness and complexity.
• Soy Sauce: Provides a salty, umami punch that balances and enhances other flavors.
• Fresh Rosemary: Optional herb adding fragrant, earthy notes and Mediterranean flair.

Black Pepper Pork Chops Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
• 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)

How to Make this Black Pepper Pork Chops Recipe

1. Start by drying the pork chops with paper towels to remove any extra moisture. This will help them sear properly.

2. In a tiny bowl, combine the freshly milled black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Apply the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of every pork chop, pressing it into the flesh.

4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.

5. Put the pork chops into the skillet, frying each side for about 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust has formed.

6. Lower the heat to medium. Add the soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the skillet. Swirl the pan to coat the pork chops.

7. To enhance the flavor of the pork chops with a touch of caramelized sweetness, sprinkle them with brown sugar.

8. Keep cooking the pork chops, using the pan juices to baste them occasionally, for another 5-7 minutes or until they clock in at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

9. In the final minute of cooking, add to the skillet the last tablespoon of butter and the chopped fresh rosemary, swirling the pan to combine the flavors.

10. Take the pork chops out of the skillet and permit them to rest for approximately 5 minutes before serving them. This allows the juices in the chops to redistribute.

Black Pepper Pork Chops Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Paper towels
2. Tiny bowl
3. Measuring spoons
4. Large skillet
5. Stove
6. Spatula or tongs
7. Meat thermometer

FAQ

• Q: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?Yes, but they may cook faster and require adjustments in cooking time to avoid overcooking. Use pork chops that are not tenderized.
• Q: Is there a substitute for soy sauce if I’m avoiding soy?You have the option of using tamari, which is gluten-free, or coconut aminos, which is soy-free, as alternatives.
• Q: How can I tell when the pork chops are done?A: To verify that pork is safe to eat, take its temperature with a meat thermometer. The only way to know for sure that it has reached the minimum safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is to check it after cooking. Anything less may harbor live pathogens that can cause foodborne illness.
• Q: Can I prepare this dish without any added sugar?A: Yes, you can leave out the brown sugar and have a dish that is entirely free of sugar, if you don’t want any sugar.
• Q: How should I store leftovers?A: Leftover food can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently to ensure moisture is retained.
• Q: Can I add vegetables to the dish?A: Of course, vegetables like bell peppers or onions can be roasted or sautéed alongside the pork chops to serve as part of a complete meal.

Black Pepper Pork Chops Recipe Substitutions and Variations

For a milder flavor, use white pepper instead of black pepper.
Use sea salt or kosher salt in place of table salt for a flavor with more complexity and a texture that’s just a little different.
Replace garlic powder with fresh garlic, minced. This will give you a more aromatic and intense garlic flavor.
If you don’t have onion powder, using finely minced fresh onions works well. Just make sure they are sautéed until soft.
Use either avocado oil or sunflower oil instead of olive oil for a neutral flavor and a high smoke point.

Pro Tips

1. Brine the Pork Chops For extra juicy and flavorful pork chops, consider brining them for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Use a simple brine of water, salt, sugar, and any additional herbs or spices you like.

2. Room Temperature Chops Before cooking, allow the pork chops to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve a perfect sear.

3. Cast Iron Skillet Use a cast iron skillet for optimal heat retention and distribution, which will help in developing a beautiful crust on the pork chops.

4. Resting is Key After removing the pork chops from the skillet, cover them lightly with foil while they rest. This traps the heat and allows the juices to redistribute evenly.

5. Deglaze the Pan After cooking the pork chops and removing them from the skillet, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine, chicken broth, or water to create a quick pan sauce. This can capture all the caramelized bits and enhance the overall flavor when serving.