Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Rub the marinade evenly over the pork chops. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Pour apple cider vinegar and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine with the pan juices.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
- Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
FAQs:
- What ingredients are needed for Delicious Brown Sugar Chops?
- Key ingredients typically include pork chops, brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, olive oil, and optionally, apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for added tanginess.
- How do I prepare the brown sugar rub for the pork chops?
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops, ensuring they are well coated.
- What is the best cooking method for brown sugar pork chops?
- You can cook these pork chops using various methods, such as grilling, baking, or pan-searing. For grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the chops for about 4-5 minutes per side. For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes. For pan-searing, heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil and cook for 4-5 minutes per side.
- How can I ensure the pork chops stay juicy and tender?
- To keep pork chops juicy and tender, avoid overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and remove the chops from the heat when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Can I make any substitutions or additions to the brown sugar rub?
- Yes, you can customize the rub to your taste. Consider adding chili powder for a spicy kick, ground cumin for a smoky flavor, or herbs like thyme and rosemary for added aroma. You can also substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar if desired.