Taiwanese Pork Chops

Taiwanese Pork Chops Recipe - Authentic Chinese-Taiwanese Dish

Region / culture: China, Taiwan | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Taiwanese Pork Chops are a popular dish that combines the flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and Chinese five-spice powder to create a delicious and savory meal. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

History

Taiwanese Pork Chops have roots in Taiwanese cuisine, where pork is a staple ingredient. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and five-spice powder is a classic flavor profile in Taiwanese cooking, creating a dish that is both flavorful and comforting.

Ingredients

4 bone-in pork chops (0.75 inch thick)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 tbsp sugar
0.5 tbsp white wine
0.5 tbsp chinese five-spice powder
vegetable oil
vegetable oil for frying
cornstarch

How to prepare

Using a sharp knife, make several small slits near the edges of the pork chops to prevent them from curling when fried.
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the soy sauce, garlic, sugar, white wine, and five-spice powder. Place the chops into the bag and seal tightly. Gently massage the marinade into the chops, ensuring they are well coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, turning the bag over occasionally.
In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil to fill the skillet to a depth of about 0.5 inch. Remove the chops from the resealable bag without wiping off the marinade. Lightly sprinkle cornstarch on both sides of the chops.
Carefully add the chops to the skillet and cook, turning once, until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through.

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs for pork chops for a lighter option.
Add chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the pork chops for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Use a sharp knife to make small slits in the pork chops to prevent them from curling when fried.

- Be careful when adding the pork chops to the hot oil to avoid splattering.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Taiwanese Pork Chops with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Frying

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute brown sugar or honey for sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the pork chops overnight for even more flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Taiwanese Pork Chops on a bed of lettuce with a side of pickled vegetables for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Taiwanese Pork Chops with a cold beer or a glass of oolong tea for a refreshing drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Taiwanese Pork Chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Taiwanese Pork Chops contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Taiwanese Pork Chops contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Taiwanese Pork Chops contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Taiwanese Pork Chops contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Taiwanese Pork Chops are a good source of iron, vitamin B6, and niacin.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and may contain gluten if the soy sauce used is not gluten-free.

Summary

Taiwanese Pork Chops are a balanced meal that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Taiwanese Pork Chops are a flavorful and satisfying dish that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques, you can enjoy this delicious Taiwanese classic in no time.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many decades ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother. We had a neighbor who had recently moved to our small village from Taiwan, and she brought with her a wealth of culinary knowledge that piqued my interest.

One day, I happened to catch a glimpse of her preparing a dish that caught my eye - Taiwanese Pork Chops. The aroma of the sizzling meat and the blend of spices wafting through the air drew me in, and I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I mustered up the courage to approach our neighbor and ask her for the recipe. She was delighted to share her culinary secrets with me and invited me into her kitchen to watch and learn. As I stood by her side, I watched in awe as she expertly seasoned the pork chops with a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and five-spice powder. She then marinated the meat for hours, allowing the flavors to meld and infuse the meat with a rich and savory taste.

As the pork chops cooked in a hot skillet, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of caramelized meat and spices. My neighbor explained to me the importance of achieving the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in Taiwanese cuisine, and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious and delicious dish.

After the pork chops were cooked to perfection, she plated them with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables. The first bite I took of the tender and flavorful meat was a revelation. The combination of spices and seasonings danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving more.

From that moment on, I was determined to master the art of making Taiwanese Pork Chops. I practiced tirelessly in my own kitchen, experimenting with different proportions of seasonings and cooking techniques until I finally achieved the perfect balance of flavors that reminded me of that first unforgettable taste.

Over the years, I have made Taiwanese Pork Chops for my family and friends, sharing the recipe and passing down the culinary tradition that I learned from my neighbor so many years ago. Each time I prepare this dish, I am transported back to that small kitchen in our village, watching with wide-eyed wonder as my neighbor worked her magic with a few simple ingredients.

The recipe for Taiwanese Pork Chops has become a treasured part of my culinary repertoire, a dish that never fails to impress and delight those who taste it. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from someone who shared their passion for cooking with me, and I will always cherish the memories of that fateful day when I discovered the magic of Taiwanese cuisine.