Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops

Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops Recipe - Authentic Taste at Home

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger with crispy breaded pork chops. This recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional fried pork chops, as they are baked in the oven instead of being fried in oil.

History

The origins of oven-fried pork chops are not clear, but the technique of oven-frying has been used in various cuisines for many years. This recipe likely originated as a healthier alternative to traditional fried pork chops, as baking the chops in the oven reduces the amount of oil used in cooking.

Ingredients

1 egg
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp water
0.5 tsp garlic powder
0.25 tsp ground ginger
4 to 6 pork chops, fat trimmed
bread crumbs to coat

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Spray a cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
In a shallow bowl, beat together the egg, soy sauce, water, garlic powder, and ginger.
Dip and coat both sides of the pork chops in the egg mixture.
Press each chop into bread crumbs, coating both sides.
Place the coated chops on the prepared cooking sheet.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Turn the chops and bake for an additional 20 minutes.

Variations

You can add a touch of heat to the pork chops by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the bread crumbs.
For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce.
You can also try using different types of bread crumbs, such as panko or seasoned bread crumbs, for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to trim the fat from the pork chops before coating them in the egg mixture and bread crumbs.

- Be sure to press the bread crumbs firmly onto the pork chops to ensure a crispy coating.

- For extra flavor, you can marinate the pork chops in the egg mixture for a few hours before coating them in bread crumbs.

- To ensure even cooking, flip the pork chops halfway through the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops can be served with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Oven-frying is a cooking technique that involves baking food in the oven to achieve a crispy exterior, similar to frying. This technique is healthier than traditional frying, as it requires less oil.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have soy sauce, you can substitute it with tamari or coconut aminos.

- If you don't have garlic powder, you can use minced garlic or garlic paste.

- If you don't have ground ginger, you can use fresh grated ginger or ginger paste.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the egg mixture and bread crumbs ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook the pork chops, simply dip them in the egg mixture and coat them in bread crumbs before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or green onions. You can also drizzle a little extra soy sauce over the chops for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops pair well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve them with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chops on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops are a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops are a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients. However, they are also relatively high in fat and calories, so they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of Hong Kong. My family had recently moved to a new neighborhood, and I was eager to explore the local markets and eateries to discover new flavors and dishes.

One day, while wandering through the streets, I stumbled upon a small, tucked-away restaurant that emitted the most enticing aromas. Curious, I peeked inside and saw a chef expertly preparing a dish that I had never seen before. It was a plate of crispy, golden-brown pork chops that looked absolutely mouthwatering.

Intrigued, I mustered up the courage to approach the chef and ask him about the dish. He smiled warmly and explained that it was a traditional Chinese recipe for Oven-fried Pork Chops, a beloved favorite among locals. He even offered to share the recipe with me, sensing my eagerness to learn.

As he wrote down the ingredients and cooking instructions on a scrap of paper, I couldn't contain my excitement. I rushed home to try out the recipe, eager to recreate the delicious flavors that had captivated me at the restaurant.

The first attempt at making Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops was not without its challenges. I struggled to get the seasoning just right and had a few mishaps with the cooking temperature. But with each try, I learned something new and improved my technique.

Over time, I perfected the recipe, adjusting the seasoning to my liking and mastering the art of achieving that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy. The secret, I discovered, lay in marinating the pork chops in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar before coating them in a mix of breadcrumbs and sesame seeds.

The aroma that filled my kitchen as the pork chops baked in the oven was simply irresistible. And when I finally took a bite of the finished dish, I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a cherished staple in my culinary repertoire.

As the years went by, I shared my recipe for Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops with friends and family, who all raved about its delicious taste and crispy texture. It became a beloved dish that we would often enjoy together during festive gatherings and special occasions.

I remember one particular Chinese New Year when I prepared a feast for my loved ones, featuring an array of traditional dishes alongside my signature Oven-fried Pork Chops. The table was filled with laughter and chatter as we savored the flavors of home-cooked meals made with love and care.

To this day, whenever I make Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops, I am transported back to that moment of discovery in the bustling streets of Hong Kong. The recipe holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and satisfaction that comes from exploring new flavors and mastering the art of cooking.

And as I pass down this cherished recipe to the next generation, I hope that they too will experience the same sense of anticipation and delight that I felt when I first discovered the magic of Chinese Oven-fried Pork Chops.