She Strengthens

Savory Pork Chops with Fresh Herbs

A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Inspired by the bold flavors of Vietnamese and Thai cuisine, this recipe is a game-changer for pork chop lovers and skeptics alike. The secret to its success lies in the perfect balance of tender, juicy meat and fragrant fresh herbs.

The Key to Moisture-Rich Pork Chops

To achieve the perfect texture, it’s essential to slice the pork chops thinly and cook them on high heat. This quick cooking method helps retain the natural moisture of the meat, making each bite a tender delight. Interestingly, bone-in pork chops tend to yield juicier results than their boneless counterparts.

The Cilantro-Green Onion Layering Technique

When experimenting with stir-fries, I discovered that cooking green onions can compromise their fresh flavor. To preserve this flavor, I began adding chopped green onions to hot cooked food, and the result was remarkable. This technique has since become a staple in my kitchen, and I often use it in combination with cilantro for added depth of flavor.

A Quick and Easy Recipe

With a total cooking time of just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The ingredients are simple yet flavorful, and the instructions are easy to follow.

Ingredients:

• 5-6 thin sliced pork chops (~1/4 inch thick)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 4 Tbsp olive oil (or cooking oil)
• 4 green onions
• 1 cup cilantro
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Chops
   Sprinkle pepper over both sides of the pork chops and make a small incision on the fat to prevent curling.

2. Marinate in Soy Sauce
   Place the pork chops in a bowl and let them soak in the soy sauce.

3. Chop Fresh Herbs
   Finely chop the cilantro and green onion, and set aside in a bowl.

4. Heat the Wok
   Crush the garlic cloves with a spatula, peel off the skin, and heat half the garlic and half the olive oil in a wok on high heat.

5. Cook the Pork Chops
   Add 3 pork chops to the wok, arranging them so the bones are centered. Cook for 30-45 seconds, then rearrange the chops to cook the round parts. Flip the chops over and cook for another 45 seconds to a minute.

6. Assemble the Chops
   Place the cooked pork chops on a plate with a layer of cilantro-green onion mix. Sprinkle more of the mix on top of each chop, creating a “sandwich” effect.

7. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve the pork chops with sautéed spinach or other stir-fried vegetables cooked in the savory oil left over from the chops. Steamed rice makes a delicious accompaniment.

With its bold flavors and tender texture, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the magic of fresh herbs and savory pork chops!