Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops

🔹 Step 1: Marinate the Pork Chops

The magic of this dish lies in the marinade — it’s where all those tropical flavors come together.

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, mix the pineapple juice, crushed pineapple, soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, honey (or sugar), vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using.
2. Season the pork: Lightly salt and pepper the pork chops on both sides.
3. Marinate: Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or shallow container. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they’re well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours for deeper flavor.

📝 Tip: You can marinate them overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.

🔹 Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

Now it’s time to lock in those flavors with a good sear.

1. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Reserve the marinade — you’ll use it later to make a sauce.
2. Heat oil in a skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.

📝 Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). If the chops are thick, you may need to reduce the heat and cook a bit longer or finish them in the oven.

🔹 Step 3: Make the Pineapple Ginger Sauce

Let’s transform that reserved marinade into a glossy, flavorful sauce.

1. Pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan.
2. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5-7 minutes to reduce and thicken slightly. This step also ensures it’s safe to eat.
3. Taste and adjust — add a little more honey for sweetness or vinegar for brightness if desired.

🔹 Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Once the pork chops are cooked and rested for a few minutes, spoon the thickened pineapple ginger sauce over them.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped scallions or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops pair beautifully with:

• Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice
• Stir-fried vegetables
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Grilled pineapple slices for extra tropical flair

Final Thoughts

Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops are proof that a little creativity in the kitchen can go a long way. The sweet-tangy marinade tenderizes the meat while infusing it with exotic flavor, and the quick pan-sear locks in the juiciness. This dish offers a tropical escape on your plate — no passport needed.

Try it once, and it just might become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

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