Salt and Pepper Pork Chops are a simple, tasty dish! These juicy chops are seasoned with just the right amount of salt and pepper, making them extra delicious.
I love how easy they are to cook; just sear them in a pan and you’re ready to go! Serve with veggies or rice for a meal that everyone will enjoy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in pork chops for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops or pork loin also work well. Just ensure they’re thick enough to stay juicy.
Kosher Salt: You can swap kosher salt for sea salt if that’s what you have. However, use slightly less, as sea salt is finer and saltiness can vary between types.
Black and White Pepper: If you don’t have white pepper, you can just use more black pepper. For a different spin, try using a blend of different peppers for added flavor.
Cornstarch: If you’re looking for gluten-free options, cornstarch is perfect. However, you can substitute it with potato starch for similar results.
Vegetable Oil: Use any high smoke point oil like canola, grapeseed, or sunflower oil. Olive oil can be used, but keep the heat lower to avoid burning.
How Do You Get Crispy Pork Chops Without Burning Them?
Getting your pork chops crispy can be tricky, but with some simple techniques, you’ll nail it! First, drying the chops is essential. Pat them dry to ensure the oil can crisp them up without steaming.
- Season them well, but ensure the seasoning doesn’t get too wet.
- Always coat with cornstarch; this is what gives you that crunchy texture. Don’t skip this step!
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chops. A good way to check is to drop a small piece of bread in; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
- Cook the chops in batches if your skillet is too small. Crowding the pan causes steaming instead of frying, which affects crispiness.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly crispy, flavorful pork chops every time!
How to Make Salt and Pepper Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus extra for finishing)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (optional, for extra pepper flavor)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (for coating)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any high smoke point oil)
- 2 green onions, finely sliced (for garnish)
- 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, so you can have delicious Salt and Pepper Pork Chops on your table in about 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels, which will help them get that nice, crispy crust when cooked. Wet surfaces can cause steaming instead of searing!
2. Season the Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, and white pepper if you’re using it. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly over both sides of the pork chops to ensure they’re flavorful.
3. Coat with Cornstarch:
For that crispy texture, lightly coat each pork chop with cornstarch. It forms a delicious crust when fried, giving you that satisfying crunch.
4. Heat the Oil:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once your oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the pork chops in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if needed, cook in batches!
5. Fry to Perfection:
Fry the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked all the way through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This will help absorb any extra oil, keeping them crispy!
7. Finish with Salt:
Transfer the pork chops to a serving plate and sprinkle a pinch of extra kosher salt on top for that final touch of flavor!
8. Garnish:
For a beautiful presentation, garnish your pork chops with finely sliced green onions, red chili slices, and a few fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Salt and Pepper Pork Chops immediately while they’re hot and crispy. Enjoy them with your favorite sides!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Salt and Pepper Pork Chops!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork chops are a great choice, you can also use pork tenderloin or pork loin roast cut into thick slices. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary since different cuts may require varying cooking times.
What If I Don’t Have Cornstarch?
No worries! If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour. While it may not create quite the same level of crispiness, it will still give you a nice coating and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook and dry them out.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you want extra heat, consider adding more sliced red chilies, or mix in some crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend. For an extra kick, you can also try marinating the pork chops in a spicy sauce before cooking!
