Taiwanese Pork Chop is a beloved street food staple that brings together the perfect balance of savory flavors and crispy textures. This dish features tender, juicy pork chops marinated in a fragrant blend of soy sauce, five-spice powder, and other aromatic seasonings, then coated in a crispy batter and fried to golden perfection. The appeal lies not only in its mouthwatering taste but also in its delightful crunch and the way it can easily become a comforting meal for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with Taiwanese Pork Chop for its incredible flavor profile and satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist. The marinade infuses the meat with a depth of flavor that is both umami-rich and slightly sweet, while the crispy coating adds a delightful texture. This recipe is also straightforward, making it accessible for beginners and busy cooks alike. Whether you’re adhering to a busy lifestyle or simply looking for a delicious meal to share with family, this dish fits seamlessly into your culinary repertoire.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate your pork chops overnight for maximum flavor. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes is still effective.
- Use a meat mallet to tenderize the pork chops, which helps them cook more evenly and remain juicy.
- For an extra crunchy coating, double-dip the pork chops in the batter by coating them in flour, then the egg wash, and back to the flour before frying.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F/175°C) to prevent the batter from absorbing too much oil, which can lead to sogginess.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the pork chops a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. If you have leftover cooked pork chops, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For meal prep, consider frying several chops at once and reheating them when needed for a quick meal.
Recipe Variations
- Swap out the pork for chicken thighs or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add a bit of chili powder or sliced fresh chilies to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Instead of frying, you can air fry the pork chops for a healthier alternative while still achieving that crispy texture.
How to Serve
Serve your Taiwanese Pork Chops with a side of fluffy jasmine rice and a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. For a more authentic experience, drizzle a bit of sweet chili sauce on top or serve alongside a small bowl of pickled vegetables.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your Taiwanese Pork Chop with a chilled Taiwanese beer for a refreshing complement. Alternatively, a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir works beautifully. For side dishes, consider steamed bok choy or sautéed green beans. To finish off your meal, serve a light dessert such as mango pudding or sesame balls.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked pork chops in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through for best results.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or deep frying pan for frying.
- A meat mallet or rolling pin for tenderizing.
- A whisk for mixing the batter.
- A thermometer to check oil temperature (optional but recommended).
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish vegan, substitute the pork with firm tofu or seitan, and use plant-based milk instead of eggs for the batter. For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free flour for the coating.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, you can add thinly sliced summer vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the marination process for added freshness. In winter, consider incorporating root vegetables like sweet potatoes as a hearty side.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, boneless pork chops work well and will cook faster.
- What can I substitute for five-spice powder? A mix of cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and a bit of black pepper can replicate the flavors.
- How long do I fry the pork chops? Typically, 3-4 minutes per side, but it depends on the thickness of the chop.
Taiwanese Pork Chop
Taiwanese Pork Chop is a beloved street food staple that brings together the perfect balance of savory flavors and crispy textures.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice wine or Shaoxing wine
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, five-spice powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork chops in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Prepare the Coating: Set up a breading station with one bowl for flour and another for beaten eggs.
- Coat the Pork Chops: Remove each pork chop from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge in flour, dip in eggs, and then coat again in flour.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Pork Chops: Fry the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove from oil and place on a paper towel to drain. Serve hot with your preferred sides.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 557Total Fat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 196mgSodium: 1030mgCarbohydrates: 30gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 44g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Taiwanese Pork Chop at home is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of Taiwan right to your kitchen. With its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and rich marinade, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to experiment and enjoy the process, making it your own with different sides and variations. Happy cooking!
