Ella Walter
Cooking the perfect pork chop can be a challenge, but the results are well worth it. Pan-searing is a great way to achieve a juicy, tender pork chop with a delicious golden crust. The key to success is balancing the right cooking techniques and temperatures to avoid overcooking the meat. This involves searing the meat at a high temperature to create a flavourful brown crust, while also cooking at a lower temperature to maintain the juiciness of the meat. To achieve the perfect sear, it is important to ensure the meat is dry before cooking, and to use a heavy skillet or cast iron pan.
Can you pan-sear BBQ pork chops?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Oil | Avocado, Olive, Vegetable, Peanut, Sunflower, Corn |
| Pan | Cast iron |
| Temperature | High |
| Timing | 30 minutes |
| Thickness | 1-2 inches |
| Seasoning | Salt, Pepper, Sugar, Thyme, Rosemary, Sage, Marjoram, Oregano, White Pepper |
| Sides | Salads, Potatoes, Green Beans Almondine, Sauteed Cabbage |
| Sauce | BBQ, Dijon Mustard, White Wine, Herbs, Cream |
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What You'll Learn
Brining and seasoning
Brining is an optional step that adds flavour and helps tenderize the meat. To brine your pork chops, create a mixture of water, baking soda, salt, peppercorns, and brown sugar in a large bowl. Stir the mixture until the salt and sugar dissolve, then add the pork chops. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for anywhere between 30 minutes and eight hours before cooking. If you choose to brine for longer, you may want to consider salting the pork chops the day before you plan to cook them, and leaving them uncovered in the fridge overnight to drive off surface moisture and improve browning.
When you are ready to cook the pork chops, remove them from the brine 20-30 minutes in advance. The baking soda may cause the chops to feel slippery, but this is normal. It is important to pat the chops dry with paper towels, as moisture will steam the meat instead of searing it when it hits the pan.
If you don't have time to brine, you can still season your pork chops before cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper, and consider adding other mild seasonings like sage, marjoram, oregano, or a dash of white pepper. You can also use a simple dry rub, Cajun spices, jerk seasoning, or garlic butter and lemon.
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Pan and oil type
To achieve the perfect sear on your BBQ pork chops, it's important to select the right type of pan and oil.
Pan type
A heavy skillet or a cast iron pan is the best choice for searing pork chops. Cast iron pans are ideal because they provide an even cooking surface and allow for a nice sear. They also retain heat well, which is essential for getting a good sear on your meat. If you plan to transfer the skillet to the oven after searing, make sure your cast iron pan is oven-proof.
Oil type
When it comes to oil, you have several options, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it one of the best choices for pan-searing. It's a healthy fat and has a mild flavor.
- Vegetable oil: This oil also has a high smoke point, higher than olive oil, making it better suited for searing.
- Olive oil: Olive oil is a good second choice for searing. It has a slight flavor and a lower smoke point compared to avocado oil.
- Peanut oil, sunflower oil, or corn oil: These oils are also suitable for searing, offering alternative options with their own unique properties.
It's important to avoid using butter as the sole cooking fat when searing, as it will burn. However, you can add a tablespoon of butter towards the end of the cooking process to impart extra flavor. Additionally, consider using a combination of half olive oil and half ghee or clarified butter to get the butter flavor without the smoke.
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Cooking techniques
The first step to achieving the perfect BBQ pork chops is to select the right cut of meat. Bone-in pork chops offer more flavour, but boneless chops are less fussy to eat. Thicker chops are generally preferred as they are juicier and more tender, but thinner chops cook faster and still taste great. For pan-searing, select rib or loin chops as they are the most tender.
Before cooking, remove the pork chops from the refrigerator and let them rest at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes. This ensures that the chops cook evenly on the inside and reach the perfect internal temperature. Brining the chops is optional but recommended as it adds flavour and helps tenderize the meat. If you choose to brine, dab the chops dry with a paper towel after removing them from the brine, and reduce the amount of salt you use in your seasoning.
To season the pork chops, pat them dry and sprinkle both sides with a generous amount of your chosen spice mixture. You can use any combination of salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, sage, marjoram, oregano, or white pepper. If you have time, season the chops a day in advance and let them rest in the fridge, covered in plastic wrap. This allows the flavours to penetrate the meat even more.
When you're ready to cook, heat oil in a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Avocado oil, vegetable oil, peanut oil, sunflower oil, and corn oil are good choices due to their high smoke points. Ensure the pan is ripping hot before adding the oil, and be careful not to use butter as it will burn. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops in a single layer and sear until the first side is golden brown. Resist the urge to move or flip the chops too early, as this will disrupt the searing process.
After achieving a good sear on the first side, flip the chops and continue pan-searing until cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare chops, remove them from the heat when they reach an internal temperature of 135°F to 145°F. Allow the chops to rest for at least 3 to 5 minutes before serving, as this helps retain their juices.
To add extra flavour, create a simple pan sauce while the pork chops are resting. Deglaze the pan with about 1/4 cup of white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Add butter, herbs, and 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream, simmering until thickened. Spoon this sauce over the chops just before serving.
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Resting and serving
Resting your pork chops after searing is an important step in the cooking process. It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that they are moist and tender when served. The recommended resting time varies, but most sources suggest resting the chops for at least 3 to 5 minutes before cutting or serving. This allows the chops to reach their perfect temperature and prevents overcooking.
While the pork chops are resting, you can prepare a sauce or add aromatics to enhance the flavour. One suggestion is to deglaze the pan with a quarter cup of white wine, scraping up any brown bits left over from searing the chops. Then, melt butter and herbs into the wine and add heavy whipping cream, simmering until thickened. This sauce can be seasoned with salt and pepper and poured over the chops just before serving. Another option is to baste the chops with aromatics such as butter, shallots, and thyme while they cook, or to sprinkle rosemary and thyme on top of the chops while they rest.
If you want to ensure that your pork chops are cooked to your desired level of doneness, you can use a meat thermometer. The recommended internal temperature for pork chops varies, with some sources suggesting 135°F, while others recommend 138-145°F. Keep in mind that the chops will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the heat, so it is best to remove them from the heat a few degrees early.
Leftover pan-seared pork chops can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen in zippered bags for up to 4 weeks. Reheat leftovers on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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Sides and accompaniments
BBQ pork chops are a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas for sides and accompaniments to elevate your BBQ pork chops:
Starchy Sides
Starchy sides are a classic choice to accompany any meat dish, and BBQ pork chops are no exception. Here are some options to consider:
- Potato Salad: A creamy and tangy potato salad with a crunch from onions and pickles is a perfect side for a summer cookout or BBQ.
- Mashed Potatoes: Buttery and creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting and indulgent side dish that pairs well with the chops.
- Scalloped Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce with cheese are a special treat and a delightful side for any meal.
- Roasted Fingerling Potatoes: These potatoes are a classic side that can be grilled or roasted to add a smoky flavour.
- Fried Rice: For an Asian-inspired meal, serve your chops with a side of fried rice.
- Cornbread: A Southern-style cornbread is a delicious and comforting side that complements the chops perfectly.
- Corn Casserole: Sweet corn balanced with paprika and chives creates a tender and custardy texture that pairs well with the chops.
- Mac & Cheese: This classic, comforting dish is always a crowd-pleaser and makes for a hearty side.
Vegetable Sides
Adding a vegetable side to your BBQ pork chops provides a nutritious and flavourful complement to the dish. Here are some options:
- Roasted Green Beans: Fresh beans tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper before roasting are a simple yet delicious side.
- Grilled Corn: Grilled corn in the husk is a classic BBQ side that adds a touch of sweetness to the meal.
- Grilled or Fried Cabbage: Cabbage, fried or sautéed with ginger and cream, is a delicious and healthy side that pairs well with the chops.
- Roasted Carrots: Roasting carrots concentrates their flavour and sweetens them. Pair them with Parmesan and a touch of lemon for a tasty side.
- Brussels Sprouts: Caramelised Brussels sprouts are crispy, slightly sweet, and a surprising yet delicious pairing with the chops.
- Salad: A simple salad with leafy greens, tomatoes, red onions, herbs, and feta cheese is a refreshing side that works well with grilled meats.
Fruit Sides
Fruit sides can add a touch of sweetness and freshness to your BBQ pork chops:
- Applesauce: This classic side dish can be made less sweet or adjusted with sugar to suit your taste.
- Caramelised Apples: Apples caramelised with herbs provide a sweet and savoury contrast to the savoury chops.
- Balsamic Reduction: Simmer balsamic vinegar until it becomes a thick syrup that complements the pork chops beautifully.
- Roasted Peaches: Grilled peaches are a delightful summery side that adds a unique flavour to the meal.
These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to experiment and create your own signature sides to accompany your BBQ pork chops!
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Frequently asked questions
Make sure the surface of the meat is as dry as possible before placing it in a hot pan. Use a heavy skillet or cast iron pan for an even cooking surface and a nice sear.
Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavour, making it a great choice. Peanut oil, sunflower oil, vegetable oil, and olive oil are also good options.
Sear each side for about 2 minutes or until golden brown. Then, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for about 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-145°F.
The pork chops will release from the pan when they are crisp and ready to flip, usually after about 4 minutes per side. Resist the urge to move or flip them too early!
Pan-seared pork chops go well with roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or cauliflower. They also pair nicely with potatoes, salads, or green beans.
