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    Perfectly Tender Caramelized Pork Chops

    clock-icon130 minutes
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    Pixicook editorial team

    Juicy and flavorful pork chops with a caramelized crust, perfect for a delicious dinner.

    Ingredients for Perfectly Tender Caramelized Pork Chops

    units in
    USchevron
    units in
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    serves
    4 peoplechevron
    serves
    4 peoplechevron

    Bone-in Pork Rib Chops, trimmed

    0 oz

    Substitute chevron-down

    Kosher Salt

    to taste

    Substitute chevron-down

    Pepper, freshly ground

    to taste

    Substitute chevron-down

    Vegetable Oil

    tablespoons

    Substitute chevron-down

    How to Make Perfectly Tender Caramelized Pork Chops

    1. Prepare the Pork Chops

    First, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, ensuring they are free from any excess moisture. Make a few slits through the fat and silverskin along the edges of each chop, which will help prevent them from curling up during cooking. Generously sprinkle the chops with kosher salt and let them stand on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet for 45 minutes.

    2. Preheat the Oven

    While the chops are standing, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).

    3. Season and Cook the Pork Chops

    Once the standing time is up, season the pork chops with freshly ground black pepper. Transfer the chops to the preheated oven and let them cook slowly for 30 to 45 minutes. This low and slow method ensures the meat cooks evenly and remains juicy.

    4. Sear the Pork Chops

    Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is just beginning to smoke. Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear them for about 1.5 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a deep, golden-brown crust. Use tongs to stand the chops on their edges and sear the fat and sides for about 1.5 minutes.

    5. Rest the Pork Chops

    Once seared, transfer the chops to a plate and tent them loosely with aluminum foil. Let the chops rest for 10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.

    Variations

    Core Recipe

    Caramelized Pork Chops . Searing

    Sauce Variation: - Mustard Cream Sauce

    After removing the chops, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine, then stir in Dijon mustard and heavy cream for a rich, tangy sauce. . Apple Cider Glaze

    Herb Variation: - Rosemary and Garlic

    Add minced garlic and finely chopped fresh rosemary to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking. This combination offers a fragrant and earthy flavor profile. . Thyme and Lemon

    Spice Rub Variation: - Smoky Paprika Rub

    Combine smoked paprika with a touch of cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this mixture onto the pork chops before searing to give a smoky, slightly spicy kick. . Five-Spice Rub

    Side Dish Variation: - Spiced Apples

    Sauté sliced apples in the same pan with a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg for a side that complements the pork's richness. . Savory Pear Compote

    Pitfalls and tips

    Select Quality Meat

    Choose high-quality, well-marbled, bone-in pork chops at least 1 inch thick for more flavor and juiciness.

    Don't Overcook

    Use a meat thermometer and aim for 145°F for medium-rare, accounting for carryover cooking during rest.

    Resting Time

    Allow the pork chops to rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking for juice redistribution and tenderness.

    Brining

    A simple brine of water, salt, and sugar can significantly enhance moisture and flavor, especially if brined for at least 30 minutes.

    The Sear

    Sear without moving them for a few minutes on each side to develop a golden brown crust via the Maillard reaction.


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