Asian Brined Pork Chops

Name: Asian Brined Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 people
Ingredients: 4 pork chops; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil; 3/4 cup mirin; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 3 ounces ginger; 6-8 dried chili; 1 orange; 1 1/2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 1/2 cups water; mint

User Reviews

5

12 reviews

Excellent

Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
20 mins
Servings
4 people
Calories
482 kcal
Course
Main Course
Cuisine
Asian

Asian Brined Pork Chops

Kelsey Carr

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These pork chops are brined in a savory mixture of mirin, soy sauce, fresh ginger slices, dried chilies, orange slices, and sesame oil, which imparts a layered Asian flavor profile. Pan-frying after brining develops a caramelized crust while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Resting the chops before serving helps redistribute juices for better texture. Optional mint garnish adds fresh aroma and contrast to the rich pork.

Description

Asian Brined Pork Chops are enhanced by soaking in a brine that combines mirin and soy sauce for umami and sweetness, along with fresh ginger and dried chilies for warming spice and subtle heat. Thin orange slices introduce brightness and citrus fragrance, while sesame oil adds nuttiness to the marinade. This brining step tenderizes the pork chops and infuses complex flavors throughout the meat.

After brining, the chops are brought to room temperature and patted dry to ensure even pan frying. Cooking in a neutral oil over medium heat creates a brown, flavorful crust, sealing in juices. The resting period wrapped in foil allows the meat fibers to relax, resulting in tender, juicy pork chops with crisp edges.

The pork chops can be served with the optional fresh mint garnish to introduce a refreshing herbal note that contrasts with the rich, savory meat. This dish balances sweet, salty, spicy, and citrus elements and works well as a main course alongside steamed rice or vegetables.

Note that boneless pork chops can be used as a substitution, but cooking times should be adjusted accordingly to avoid overcooking.

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Ingredients

Servings

4 pork chops 3/4-inch thick (7 cm/10 cm, bone-in
1/8 teaspoon salt or to taste
1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil generic cooking oil

Brine:

3/4 cup mirin
1/2 cup soy sauce low sodium
3 ounces ginger thinly sliced, fresh
6-8 dried chili small
1 orange thinly sliced
1 1/2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 1/2 cups water cold

Garnish (optional):

mint leaves

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Instructions

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Lightly season the pork chops with salt.
Mix all the ingredients for the brine in a container or pot that is just big enough for the pork chops. Marinate the pork chops in the Brine for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
Before cooking, remove the pork chops from the brine and let them come to room temperature. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
Heat the cooking oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry the pork chops for about 4–5 minutes on each side. Transfer the pork chops and wrap them in foil. Let them rest for 8–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Boneless pork chops can be substituted; reduce cooking time to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

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Serving 4people Calories 482kcal (24%) Carbohydrates 29g (10%) Protein 38g (76%) Fat 24g (37%) Saturated Fat 6g (30%) Cholesterol 117mg (39%) Sodium 1575mg (66%) Fiber 2g (8%) Sugar 15g (30%)