Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an explosion of Korean-inspired flavor that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! These Korean Style Pork Chops are not just a meal, they're a culinary adventure that combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory in every single bite. With a mouthwatering gochujang marinade that caramelizes beautifully and creates an irresistible crust, these pork chops are about to become your new go-to recipe for an impressive yet surprisingly easy dinner.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and sugar until a smooth marinade is formed.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better caramelization.
- Place pork chops in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each chop is evenly coated. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove pork chops from marinade, letting excess drip off. Reserve remaining marinade for basting.
- Cook pork chops for 4-5 minutes on each side, basting with reserved marinade and ensuring internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with finely chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or your preferred side dish.
Tips
- Temperature is key: Always let your pork chops come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Pat those chops dry: Use paper towels to remove moisture, which helps achieve that gorgeous caramelized exterior.
- Don't rush the marinating: Allow at least 10-15 minutes for the marinade to infuse flavor, but avoid marinating too long to prevent the meat from becoming too salty.
- Watch your heat: Medium-high heat is perfect for creating a nice sear without burning the sugars in the marinade.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure your pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
- Rest is best: Always let your pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices and keep the meat tender.
- Garnish generously: Fresh chopped green onions not only add color but a bright, fresh flavor that complements the rich marinade.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
