These Salt and Pepper Pork Chops are simple yet tasty! Just a sprinkle of salt and pepper turns juicy pork into a delicious meal. Perfect for any night of the week!
Honestly, there’s something charming about the classic combo of salt and pepper. It brings out the pork’s flavor beautifully. I love serving these with veggies for a colorful plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for this dish, but you can use bone-in chops if you prefer more flavor. Chicken breast or thighs also work if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Flour & Cornstarch: The combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch creates a crispy coating. If gluten-free is what you need, substitute with a gluten-free blend for both ingredients.
Spices: The mix of black pepper, garlic powder, and five-spice powder adds depth. If five-spice isn’t available, you can substitute with a mix of cinnamon, star anise, fennel seeds, and cloves for a similar flavor, or just stick to black pepper and garlic.
Eggs & Milk: For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with almond or soy milk, and you can skip the eggs by using a mixture of cornstarch and water as a binder instead.
How Do I Ensure the Pork Chops Are Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that golden, crispy texture is key to this dish. Here are easy steps to achieve it:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough—test it by dropping a small piece of coating in; it should sizzle immediately.
- Work in batches. Frying too many pieces at once will lower the oil temperature and make them soggy.
- Let them rest on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil and maintain crispiness.
By following these tips, your salt and pepper pork chops will come out crispy and delicious every time!
How to Make Salt and Pepper Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 1 lb pork chops, boneless and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp five-spice powder
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup fried garlic slices (for garnish)
- Oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and an additional 15-20 minutes for cooking. You’ll want to set aside a total of about 40 minutes for marinating, breading, and frying. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by placing the cut pork chop pieces in a mixing bowl. Season them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and five-spice powder. Mix everything well so the pork is evenly coated with the spices. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb all the delicious flavors.
2. Prepare the Breading:
In one bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it). In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until nicely blended. This will help create a tasty, crunchy coat for the pork.
3. Bread the Pork:
Take each marinated piece of pork and dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Next, coat the pork piece thoroughly in the flour mixture. Make sure it’s well-covered by pressing lightly. Place the breaded pieces on a plate and set them aside.
4. Heat the Oil:
Grab a large skillet or wok and pour in enough oil to cover the bottom. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. Test if it’s hot enough by dropping a small piece of breaded pork in; it should sizzle immediately!
5. Fry the Pork Chops:
Carefully add the breaded pork in batches to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once all the pork is fried, it’s time to serve! Sprinkle the crispy pork with sliced green onions and fried garlic slices for an extra crunch. Enjoy them hot with a side of dipping sauce or served over rice for a delightful meal!
Now you’re all set to enjoy crispy, flavorful Salt and Pepper Pork Chops that everyone will love!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces as suggested, and increase the cooking time slightly, as bone-in pieces can take longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This will result in a juicy and flavorful dish!
What Can I Substitute for Cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute it with an equal amount of arrowroot starch or potato starch. Both will yield a similar crispy texture. Additionally, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, these substitutes work well in the breading process!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops in a hot skillet or oven (about 350°F or 175°C) for a few minutes to retain that crispy texture. Alternatively, if you use the microwave, be sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out.
