These Korean pork chops are a tasty and quick dinner option! They’re full of flavor from sweet soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Plus, they cook up in just 30 minutes!
Just imagine the yummy smell filling your kitchen! I love serving them with rice and veggies to make it a complete meal. It’s a fun and easy way to bring some Korean flavor at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops work best, but you can use bone-in ones if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider pork loin or tenderloin.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds a great umami flavor. If you need to reduce salt intake, go for low-sodium soy sauce. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos!
Brown Sugar: This gives sweetness and helps caramelize the pork. You could substitute it with honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity since both are sweeter than brown sugar.
Gochujang: This spicy Korean paste adds heat. If you can’t find it, use sriracha or skip it for a milder flavor. You can also increase red pepper flakes for more spice.
Sesame Oil: This oil has a nutty flavor. If you’re out, you can use canola or olive oil, but you’ll miss that signature taste. Try adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds for flavor instead.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops just right can be tricky! Follow these tips for delicious results:
- Start with evenly thick chops to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Don’t skip marinating! It adds flavor and keeps them juicy.
- Monitor the cooking time closely. They usually need about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness – look for 145°F (63°C) for optimal juiciness.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing to retain moisture.
Easy Korean Pork Chops Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) or 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time plus around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have delicious Korean pork chops ready in just 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochujang (if using), and vinegar. Keep whisking until the brown sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. This will be full of flavor for your pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Lightly season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, pour half of the marinade into a shallow dish. Add the pork chops and turn them to coat on all sides. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer if you have time—it’ll just make them that much tastier!
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the pork chops from the marinade (be sure to discard this marinade) and place them in the skillet. Cook the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully caramelized and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Thicken the Remaining Marinade:
While the pork chops are cooking, take the remaining marinade (that was not used for soaking) and pour it into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the pork chops are cooked through, drizzle the thickened marinade over them. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a lovely touch! Serve immediately with steamed rice and your favorite veggies for a delicious meal.
Enjoy your flavorful and quick Korean pork chops!
FAQ for Easy Korean Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the pork chops before marinating. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry after thawing to ensure a better sear!
What Can I Substitute for Gochujang?
If you don’t have gochujang on hand, you can use sriracha or another hot sauce for spice. For a milder option, simply omit it, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to taste for a bit of heat without the gochujang.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance. When ready to cook, simply follow the cooking instructions. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat for an even tastier result!
