This marinade for pork chops is a game changer! It’s made with tangy soy sauce, zesty garlic, and a touch of sweetness for the perfect flavor boost.
Honestly, I could drink this marinade! It makes the pork so juicy and tasty that you’ll want to make extra for dipping. Pair it with some veggies, and dinner is sorted!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and juiciness. You can swap them for boneless chops, but watch the cooking time, as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This is the base for your marinade, adding richness. For a different flavor, use avocado oil or canola oil. If on a tight budget, vegetable oil works too.
Soy Sauce: It brings saltiness and umami to the dish. For a gluten-free option, try tamari sauce. Or, use coconut aminos for a bit of sweetness.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick. White vinegar or lemon juice can work in a pinch but may alter the overall flavor slightly.
Honey: It balances the marinade with sweetness. Maple syrup or brown sugar makes a suitable substitute if you’re out of honey.
Spices: I love using smoked paprika for depth. If you’d prefer something less smoky, regular paprika or even chili powder could be good choices.
How Can I Get the Best Flavor from the Marinade?
Flavoring the pork chops isn’t just about ingredients but also about how long they marinate. To maximize flavor, here are some tips:
- Mix your marinade well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Marinate at least 2 hours, but overnight is best; the longer the better!
- Ensure all surfaces of the pork chops are coated in the marinade.
Also, letting the pork rest after cooking is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a tender, juicy chop!
How to Make the Best Pork Chop Marinade?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a minimum of 2 hours for marinating your pork chops. For the best flavor, you can marinate them overnight. Then, you’ll need about 15 minutes to cook them on the grill or skillet. Total time can vary, but you can expect to enjoy your tasty pork chops in around 2 hours and 25 minutes if marinating for 2 hours.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Keep whisking until everything is well mixed and smooth.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the delicious marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are completely coated. If using a bag, seal it tightly, removing as much air as possible. If using a dish, cover it well with plastic wrap. Now, pop them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can!
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet to a medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Make sure to discard the leftover marinade as it can’t be reused. Now, grill or sear the pork chops for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the pork chops off the heat and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy! If you like, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your warm and flavorful pork chops!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Marinade?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with various cuts of pork, such as boneless chops, tenderloin, or even pork shoulder. Just adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the cut to ensure it’s cooked through.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for up to 24 hours for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, marinating for at least 2 hours will still impart good taste. Avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours as it can make the meat mushy due to the acidity.
What Can I Substitute for Honey in the Marinade?
If you need a substitute for honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can work nicely, giving a similar sweetness. If you want a less sweet option, you can use brown sugar—just dissolve it in a bit of warm water before adding it to the marinade.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist, or you can microwave them gently on medium power.
