Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with these mouthwatering Gochujang Pork Chops with Pineapple Buns! Imagine tender, juicy pork chops glazed with a spicy-sweet Korean gochujang marinade, perfectly seared and nestled between golden toasted buns, crowned with caramelized pineapple slices. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor journey that combines the bold heat of gochujang, the sweetness of honey, and the tropical tang of grilled pineapple in one irresistible dish that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 can (400g) pineapple slices
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by combining gochujang, soy sauce, and honey in a small mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and searing. Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Brush each pork chop generously with the gochujang marinade, ensuring complete coverage. Let marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the marinated pork chops into the hot pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- While pork chops are cooking, drain the pineapple slices and pat them dry. Briefly grill or pan-sear the pineapple slices for 1-2 minutes per side to caramelize.
- Lightly toast the hamburger buns until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Let the pork chops rest for 3-4 minutes after cooking to retain juices.
- Assemble the buns by placing a grilled pork chop on each bun, topping with caramelized pineapple slice.
- Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added freshness.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach exactly 145°F for perfect doneness and juiciness.
- Marinade Magic: Let the pork chops marinate at room temperature for maximum flavor absorption, but don't exceed 30 minutes to prevent the meat from becoming too salty.
- Searing Secrets: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for the best caramelization and even cooking.
- Pineapple Pro Tip: Pat the pineapple slices dry before grilling to achieve beautiful caramelized grill marks.
- Rest and Relax: Always let your pork chops rest for 3-4 minutes after cooking to help the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite.
- Customize Your Buns: For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or additional gochujang on the buns before toasting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 456kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg
