Did you know that pork is the world’s second-favorite meat?
Pork is loved the world over for its succulent, tender texture and sweet flavor. What could be better than some juicy baked pork chops?
But, pork is also a meat that can be easily ruined. If you overcook pork, it can be dry, flavorless, and chewy. A lot of people make the mistake of overcooking pork chops because pork can harbor pathogens if you serve it too rare.
Are you already feeling overwhelmed at the thought of cooking pork chops?
Don’t be. Once you know what to do, cooking juicy pork chops is very simple and requires a minimum of prep time.
Read on to find out how to make juicy pork chops in a few easy steps.
Start With Good-Quality Meat
The first secret to any great pork chop recipe is to start with good-quality meat. Low-quality pork often contains artificially injected brine. If the pigs are kept in poor conditions and given low-grade feed, this can also influence the taste of the meat.
Heritage or pasture-raised pork has more marbling, resulting in supreme flavor and juiciness.
If you aren’t sure where to source good-quality pork, look for a butcher or supplier than specializes in pasture-raised pork, such as newmanfarm.com.
Use a Brine
One of the best ways to ensure soft, juicy baked pork chops is to soak them in brine before baking.
All you have to do is combine a few cups of water with a pinch of salt, 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and some peppercorns (optional). Once the brine has cooled, let the pork chops marinate in it for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Whip up a Rub
If you’re wondering how to make pork chops extra tasty, then you might want to whip up a rub. Once you have soaked your pork chops in brine, remove the chops and coat them in a simple rub.
Not sure what rub to use? Here is an easy pork chop recipe for a tasty rub. Simply combine a couple of tablespoons of brown sugar with a pinch of salt and a pinch of mustard and paprika.
If you really want to up the flavor ante, you can even use smoked paprika for extra umami flavor.
Adjust the Time According to the Thickness of Your Pork Chops
One of the most critical tips for making juicy baked pork chops is to adjust your cook time to the thickness of your pork chops. If your chops are on the thicker side, you should increase the bake time by a few minutes. If they are thin, decrease the cook time.
Pork chops need to reach an internal temp of 145°F, but once it has reached this you should take them out of the oven to prevent dryness. The easiest way to ensure that you get the perfect cook on your chops is to check the internal temp with a meat thermometer.
Now You Know How to Make Juicy Baked Pork Chops
Making juicy baked pork chops is very simple. Don’t overcook the pork chops, and consider doing a brine and a rub to maximize tenderness and lock in extra flavor.
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