Authentic Cuban Pork Chops Recipe | Caribbean Cuisine

Cuban Pork Chops

Authentic Cuban Pork Chops Recipe | Caribbean Cuisine
Region / culture: Caribbean, Cuba | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cuban Pork Chops
Cuban Pork Chops

Cuban Pork Chops are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of garlic, lime juice, and cumin creates a delicious marinade for the pork chops, resulting in a tender and juicy main course.

History

Cuban Pork Chops are a traditional Cuban dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The marinade used in this recipe is a classic Cuban combination of flavors that is commonly used in many Cuban dishes.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a skillet, brown lightly salted pork chops in oil over medium heat for 2 or 3 minutes.
  2. Turn the chops and add garlic, lime juice, and water to the skillet.
  3. Cook uncovered, turning the chops once or twice, until they are done and the juices become syrupy (6-8 minutes).
  4. Spoon the sauce over the chops and sprinkle with cumin and fresh pepper.
  5. Serve with rice and a vegetable of your choice.
  6. Enjoy this simple and delicious recipe!

Variations

  • You can add a splash of orange juice to the marinade for a citrusy twist.
  • Add some chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh herb flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the pork chops before adding the marinade to ensure a nice sear and flavor.

- Be sure to cook the pork chops until they are done and the juices become syrupy to ensure a flavorful and tender result.

- Serve the pork chops with rice and a vegetable of your choice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cuban Pork Chops with rice and a side of black beans for a complete Cuban meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the pork chops before adding the marinade helps to seal in the juices and create a flavorful crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken or beef instead of pork chops in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the pork chops in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Cuban Pork Chops on a platter with a garnish of fresh cilantro or lime wedges.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Cuban Pork Chops with a glass of red wine or a mojito for a refreshing drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250 per serving

Carbohydrates

2g per serving

Fats

12g per serving

Proteins

24g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C and Iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal with a good amount of protein and healthy fats.

Summary

Cuban Pork Chops are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With a flavorful marinade and tender pork chops, this recipe is a must-try for any food lover. Enjoy this Cuban-inspired meal with rice and a vegetable for a complete and satisfying dinner.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a hot summer day in Havana, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria. We sat in her cozy kitchen with the windows open, letting in a gentle breeze that carried the scent of the ocean. Maria, a fabulous cook, had just finished preparing a feast of traditional Cuban dishes. As we sat down to eat, she placed a plate of succulent pork chops in front of me, each one perfectly seared and dripping with juices.

I took a bite and immediately fell in love with the flavors. The meat was tender and juicy, with a subtle hint of garlic and citrus. Maria noticed my enthusiasm and smiled, knowing that she had just introduced me to a new favorite dish. "These are my Cuban Pork Chops," she said proudly. "A recipe passed down from my grandmother."

I begged her to teach me how to make them, and she happily agreed. We spent the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, marinating, and grilling the pork chops to perfection. As I watched her work, I realized that cooking was not just about following a recipe - it was about passion, creativity, and love.

Maria shared with me the story behind the recipe. She told me how her grandmother, a talented cook and devoted mother, would prepare these pork chops for her family every Sunday. The secret, she said, was in the marinade - a simple mixture of garlic, lime juice, cumin, and oregano that transformed the meat into a flavorful masterpiece.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Maria shared more memories of her grandmother and the joy she brought to her family through her cooking. I could see the love and pride in her eyes as she talked about the traditions that had been passed down through generations.

After that day, I made Maria's Cuban Pork Chops a regular part of my cooking repertoire. I would prepare them for family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from my loved ones. The recipe became a symbol of the bond between Maria and I, a connection that transcended time and distance.

Years passed, and I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with new ingredients and techniques. I added my own twist to the recipe, incorporating a touch of honey for sweetness and a pinch of chili powder for heat. Each time I made the dish, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down to me.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of garlic and citrus, I can't help but think of Maria and her grandmother. Their legacy lives on through this simple yet delicious recipe, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

I am grateful for the lessons I learned from Maria and her Cuban Pork Chops. They taught me that cooking is more than just a task - it is a form of expression, a way to share love and joy with those around you. And as I take another bite of the tender, flavorful meat, I am reminded once again of the beauty and magic that can be found in a humble pork chop.

Categories

| Caribbean Meat Dishes | Caribbean Recipes | Cuban Recipes | Lime Juice Recipes | Lime Recipes | Pork Recipes | Rice Recipes |

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