Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops!

Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops are a flavorful, juicy dish that pairs the sweetness of pineapple with the zing of ginger for a tropical twist on your classic pork chop. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or a special meal.

Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup pineapple juice (fresh or from canned pineapple)

• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained, or use fresh pineapple chunks)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)

• 1 tablespoon water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)

• Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

• Sliced green onions (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Season the Pork Chops

1. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side, until the outside is golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

2. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Pineapple Ginger Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add the pineapple juice, crushed pineapple, soy sauce, grated ginger, and honey to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

3. Bring the sauce to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

1. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce and simmer for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Return the Pork Chops to the Skillet

1. Return the seared pork chops to the skillet with the pineapple-ginger sauce.

2. Spoon some of the sauce over the pork chops, and let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, until they’re fully cooked through and the sauce has reduced to a glaze.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and plate them.

2. Spoon the pineapple-ginger sauce over the top of each pork chop.

3. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and green onions (if using).

4. Serve the Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops with your favorite sides like rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success:

• Grilled Pork Chops: If you prefer grilling, season the pork chops with the same seasoning and grill them over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side. Then, brush the pineapple-ginger sauce on top as the chops cook, and finish them off with a glaze.

• Pineapple Variations: If fresh pineapple is available, consider using chunks instead of crushed pineapple for a chunkier sauce.

• Ginger Flavor: Adjust the amount of ginger to your taste. Fresh ginger adds a bold, zesty flavor, while ground ginger provides a more subtle spice.

• Sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by increasing or decreasing the amount of honey, depending on your preference.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 350-400

• Protein: 35g

• Fat: 15g

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 14g (from pineapple and honey)

This Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops recipe combines a unique sweet-savory combination that’s sure to delight your taste buds. The juicy pork is complemented by a vibrant and flavorful pineapple-ginger sauce that brings a tropical flair to your dinner table. Enjoy this easy-to-make, flavorful meal with your favorite sides.