Pineapple ginger pork chops

Here’s a delicious recipe for Pineapple Ginger Pork Chops that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the zing of ginger for a flavorful, tropical twist on pork chops!

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned pineapple chunks in juice, drained)
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice (if using fresh pineapple, or the juice from canned pineapple)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Chopped cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Pork Chops:
   • Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
   • Add the pork chops and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F). Remove the pork chops from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Pineapple Ginger Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. If there’s too much oil or fat left, drain it off.
   • Add the grated ginger and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add the diced pineapple, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and rice vinegar. Stir to combine.
   • Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly and the pineapple softens. Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or vinegar, as desired.
   • If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.
4. Combine Pork Chops and Sauce:
   • Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the pineapple ginger sauce over the chops and let them simmer for another 5-10 minutes to warm through and allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for freshness and color.
   • Serve with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or sautéed vegetables to soak up that flavorful sauce!

Tips:

• For an extra caramelized sauce, you can add a bit of brown sugar or honey while the sauce simmers to get a sticky, glaze-like consistency.
• If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger works, but fresh ginger will give a more vibrant flavor.
• You can add a splash of lime juice at the end for a bit of zest.

This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal that’ll impress your guests! Enjoy!