Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooked Oriental Pork Chops Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, you’ll love this Slow Cooked Oriental Pork Chops recipe. I can’t get enough of how tender and juicy the pork chops become after simmering all day in the slow cooker.
The combination of soy sauce and garlic creates a rich, savory sauce that perfectly complements the meat. Plus, the hint of sweetness from the brown sugar balances everything out.
It’s a one-pot meal that saves time and effort, making it perfect for busy nights. I enjoy serving it over fluffy white rice, soaking up every drop of that delicious sauce.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds!
Ingredients of Slow Cooked Oriental Pork Chops
When it comes to whipping up a comforting meal, having the right ingredients is half the battle. For the Slow Cooked Garlic Soy Pork Chops, you’re going to want to gather a few simple but flavorful items that will transform your pork into a tender, savory masterpiece.
Trust me, if you can chop some garlic and measure out a few liquids, you’re already on your way to a delicious dinner. Let’s check out what you’ll need to make this dish sing.
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops, about 1 inch thick, bone-in
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon chili pepper flakes, crushed (you can use sweet or red, depending on your taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold water
Before you dash off to the kitchen, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit more.
First off, the pork chops—bone-in is key here because it adds flavor and moisture as they cook. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even use a different cut, but the chops really shine in this recipe.
And don’t skimp on the garlic; it’s the heart of this dish, giving it that aromatic punch. As for the soy sauce, it’s essential for that umami kick, while the brown sugar adds a lovely sweetness that balances the saltiness perfectly.
Finally, the cornstarch will help thicken up that sauce at the end, so it clings deliciously to the pork. So gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooked Oriental Pork Chops
Alright, let’s plunge into how to make those Slow Cooked Garlic Soy Pork Chops. It’s a pretty simple process, so don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned chef.
First things first, you’ll need 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick. Grab a skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is nice and hot—like, sizzle alert hot—carefully place the pork chops in the pan. Let them brown for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want that delicious golden color to form; it’s all about the flavor, right?
Once they’re done, transfer the chops to your trusty crockpot.
Now, don’t just leave all those tasty drippings sitting in the pan. Toss in 1 minced garlic clove into that pan and give it a good stir for about a minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s all golden and fragrant—seriously, it’s like a warm hug for your senses.
After that, it’s time to add in 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of chicken broth, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Oh, and don’t forget the 1/4 teaspoon of chili pepper flakes! Stir it all together until the sugar dissolves—your kitchen is about to smell amazing, I promise.
Pour this delightful mixture over the pork chops in the crockpot, cover it, and let it work its magic on low heat for about 7 to 8 hours.
When the time is up, gently remove the chops from the crockpot. Here’s where it gets a bit fancy. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until it’s smooth. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the crockpot and then return the chops back in.
Crank the heat up to high, cover it again, and let it cook for an additional 20 minutes. This last step thickens the sauce, creating that perfect coating.
Serve these savory chops over some fluffy white rice or with a boxed oriental-style rice for a truly comforting meal. Trust me, you’re going to want seconds. Just try not to eat them all in one sitting—although I totally understand the temptation.
Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Slow Cooked Oriental Pork Chops Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basic recipe for Slow Cooked Garlic Soy Pork Chops, you might want to get a little creative with substitutions and variations to suit your taste or what’s in your pantry.
For a different flavor profile, try using teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweeter, bolder taste. If you’re out of brown sugar, honey or maple syrup can work well too.
You could also swap out the pork chops for chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
For added crunch and flavor, toss in some sliced bell peppers or snap peas during the last hour of cooking.
Don’t hesitate to experiment—every variation can lead to a delightful surprise!
What to Serve with Slow Cooked Oriental Pork Chops
Pairing your Slow Cooked Oriental Pork Chops with the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level.
I love serving these tender chops over a fluffy bed of white rice, which absorbs all those delicious flavors. For a burst of color and nutrition, steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy works wonderfully alongside.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, try a revitalizing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil. It adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the pork.
Finally, don’t forget some warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. These combinations not only complement the dish but also create a well-rounded dining experience!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Slow Cooked Oriental Pork Chops, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind to enhance the dish.
First, don’t skip browning the chops; it adds a rich flavor that elevates the entire meal. If you want a bit more heat, feel free to increase the chili pepper flakes. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a splash of honey instead of brown sugar.
If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chops overnight in the soy sauce mixture for deeper flavor. Finally, always let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy.
Serve with steamed veggies for a balanced meal, and enjoy every bite!