Fried pork chops
Chinese cuisine is one of the oldest and most celebrated cuisines in the world. This cuisine is known for its traditional cooking techniques, unique flavor profiles and emphasis on fresh ingredients. One of the most popular Chinese dishes is Fried Pork Chops, a savory and crispy dish that is enjoyed by millions of people around the world.
Pork has a special place in Chinese cuisine and is considered as one of the essential ingredients in many dishes. Pork is relatively affordable, versatile and flavorful, and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Fried Pork Chops is one such preparation which is enjoyed in many parts of China.
Fried Pork Chops, also known as ‘Za Jian Pai Gu’, is a dish traditionally made using marinated pork chops, coated with a crispy batter and deep-fried until golden brown. The result is a juicy piece of meat with a crispy exterior that is packed with flavor.
To prepare Chinese Fried Pork Chops, the pork chops are first marinated, which adds flavor to the meat and tenderizes it. The marinade is typically made of soy sauce, rice wine, garlic, ginger, and sugar, which is then is rubbed onto the pork chops and left to marinate for several hours or even overnight.
Once the pork marinates, it is dusted with cornstarch, which creates a crispy coating on the pork when it is fried. Cornstarch is a commonly used ingredient in Chinese cuisine and is favored over traditional flours because it produces a lighter and more crispy crust.
The pork chops are then deep-fried in hot oil until they are golden brown, crispy and cooked to perfection. The result is a dish that is irresistible, whether eaten alone or served with steamed rice, vegetables or dipping sauce.
Chinese Fried Pork Chops is a dish that can be prepared in different ways, depending on the region of China. In Shanghai, for example, Fried Pork Chops are usually thinner and have a crispy coating, while in Guangdong, the chops are bigger and thicker, and coated with breadcrumbs. Each variation has its unique flavor and texture, but all versions of this dish are delicious.
Chinese Fried Pork Chops have become increasingly popular around the world, and this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Chinese cuisine. The dish is relatively simple to prepare, and the ingredients are readily available at most Asian grocery stores. So, why not try your hand at this popular Chinese dish and savor the flavor of succulent pork combined with a crispy outer crust?
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops, bone-in
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sriracha hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
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In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, honey, sriracha, garlic powder, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to form a marinade.
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Place the pork chops in a dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure to coat all sides. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
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When ready to cook, remove the pork chops from the marinade and pat them dry with a paper towel.
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until browned and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
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Serve the pork chops immediately, garnished with sliced scallions or chopped cilantro, if desired.
Note: For an extra crispy crust, you can dredge the pork chops in cornstarch before frying.