Mastering Pork Chops In The New Wave Fryer

Air fryers are a convenient and healthy way to cook pork chops. They yield a crispy exterior and a juicy interior in under 15 minutes. The first step is to pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and then coat them with olive oil and seasonings. The air fryer should be preheated to 400°F for 5 minutes. Then, cook the pork chops for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The ideal internal temperature for the pork chops is 145°F. Once they're done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Choosing the right pork chops

Thickness:

When choosing pork chops for a NewWave fryer, opt for chops that are thicker rather than thinner. Thick pork chops, ranging from 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches in thickness, are ideal. This is because thicker chops will have more time to develop a beautiful char on all sides during the cooking process. Thin pork chops tend to cook too quickly and may not achieve the desired level of doneness.

Bone-in or Boneless:

For the best results in a NewWave fryer, consider selecting bone-in pork chops. Bone-in chops add flavour to the meat and help keep it moist during cooking. However, boneless pork chops can also be used and may be more convenient for even cooking.

Cut of Pork:

The type of cut you choose for your pork chops can impact the overall taste and texture of the dish. For NewWave frying, it is recommended to go with centre-cut pork chops. This cut tends to be more uniform in shape and size, ensuring even cooking. Additionally, the loin, sirloin, or rib chops are good options, offering a balance of flavour and tenderness.

Quality:

When selecting pork chops, it is essential to choose high-quality meat. Look for chops with a good amount of marbling, which is the fat distributed throughout the meat. This fat will help keep the chops moist and juicy during the cooking process. Avoid pork chops with excessive amounts of fat or those that appear dry or discoloured.

Freshness:

Always opt for fresh pork chops whenever possible. Check the packaging or ask your butcher about the date the chops were cut. Fresher pork chops will have a brighter colour and firmer texture. Avoid chops that have been sitting in the display case for too long, as they may have lost some of their moisture and flavour.

Personal Preference:

Lastly, consider your personal preferences when choosing pork chops. If you prefer a more robust flavour, go for chops with a darker colour and more marbling. For a leaner option, select chops with less fat. You can also choose between different types of seasonings or marinades to further enhance the flavour of your pork chops.

Preparing the pork chops

Firstly, select the right pork chops. Opt for chops that are at least 1-inch thick, as thinner chops may dry out and become overcooked. You can choose either boneless or bone-in pork chops, depending on your preference. Bone-in pork chops will take longer to cook, but the bone adds flavour and moisture to the meat. Look for pork chops with a pinkish-red colour and a firm texture, avoiding any with a pale colour or soft texture as these may be of poor quality.

Once you have selected your pork chops, it is important to rinse them under cold water to remove any impurities. Pat the chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial, as it will help the seasoning stick to the meat and create a crispy exterior when cooked.

Now it's time to season the pork chops. You can use a simple mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. If you want to get creative, try adding some brown sugar, onion powder, ground mustard, or dried herbs like parsley or thyme. Mix your chosen seasonings together in a small bowl, then coat the pork chops generously with olive oil and rub the seasoning mix all over the meat. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for an even coating.

If you have time, you can also try marinating the pork chops for extra flavour. A classic marinade includes olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and dried thyme. For a spicy kick, add some hot sauce. Alternatively, mix together olive oil, fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon juice for an herby marinade. Allow the pork chops to sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for maximum flavour.

Finally, if you're using a breading or coating, now is the time to apply it. You can use a simple mixture of Parmesan cheese and spices, or experiment with breadcrumbs and different herbs and spices. Dredge the seasoned pork chops in the breading or coating, making sure to press it onto the meat so it adheres well.

Your pork chops are now ready to be cooked in your Newwave fryer! Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results, and remember to cook the pork chops in batches if your fryer is on the smaller side. Enjoy your juicy, tender, and flavourful pork chops!

Preheating the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in making perfect pork chops. Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures your pork chops cook evenly and efficiently.

Different air fryers have different preheating requirements, so be sure to consult your air fryer's user manual for specific instructions. However, the general process involves turning on the air fryer and setting it to the desired temperature.

While your air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your pork chops. Start by rinsing the pork chops with cool water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step removes any impurities and ensures the seasonings will adhere properly.

Next, gather your seasonings and make your spice rub. A simple and tasty option is to mix brown sugar, paprika, ground mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add some olive oil to the spice rub to help it stick to the pork chops.

Once your pork chops are dry and your seasonings are mixed, it's time to coat the meat. Generously apply the spice rub to all sides of the pork chops, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Don't be shy with the rub—use it all!

By the time you're done coating your pork chops, your air fryer should be preheated and ready to go. Now, you're one step closer to enjoying juicy, tender, and delicious air fryer pork chops.

Seasoning and placing the pork chops in the air fryer basket

Now that you've gathered your ingredients, it's time to season and place the pork chops in the air fryer basket.

First, pat your pork chops completely dry using paper towels. This step is important as it helps the seasoning stick to the meat and ensures a crispy exterior. Next, coat both sides of your pork chops with olive oil.

Now it's time to make the rub. In a small bowl, mix together all your dry ingredients. For a simple rub, you can use brown sugar, paprika, ground mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add Parmesan cheese to the mix for a nice crust. If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with other seasonings like smoked paprika, black pepper, or dried herbs.

Once your rub is ready, coat both sides of the pork chops generously with the seasoning mixture. Make sure to press the seasoning into the meat so it adheres well. This step will ensure a flavorful crust on your pork chops.

After the pork chops are seasoned, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Then, arrange the seasoned pork chops in a single layer in the basket, leaving some space between each chop to allow for even cooking.

Your pork chops are now ready to go into the air fryer!

Cooking and serving the pork chops

Now that you have selected and prepared your pork chops, it's time to cook them in your NewWave fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Preheat your NewWave fryer

Preheat your NewWave fryer to 375-400°F. Most recipes recommend a temperature of 400°F, but you can adjust it slightly depending on your preference and the thickness of your pork chops. Preheating is important as it ensures even cooking and helps you achieve the desired char on your pork chops.

Step 2: Season and place the pork chops in the fryer

Prepare your chosen seasoning mix or rub in a small bowl. You can use a variety of seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, brown sugar, ground mustard, or dried herbs. Coat the pork chops with olive oil and then generously apply the seasoning mix or rub, making sure to cover all sides of the meat. Lightly spray the fryer basket with cooking spray, and then arrange the seasoned pork chops in a single layer, leaving some space between each chop for even cooking.

Step 3: Fry the pork chops

Place the basket with the pork chops into the preheated NewWave fryer. Cook the pork chops for 9-15 minutes, depending on their thickness and the desired level of doneness. For thicker pork chops, aim for a higher cooking time, such as 12-15 minutes. Flip the pork chops halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking on both sides. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. The target internal temperature is 140-145°F.

Step 4: Rest and serve

Once the pork chops have reached the desired internal temperature and have a golden-brown crust, remove them from the NewWave fryer. Place the pork chops on a plate or a cutting board and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and moisten the meat, ensuring juicy and tender pork chops. You can serve the pork chops with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, salad, or roasted beet and kale salad. Enjoy your delicious and perfectly cooked pork chops!

Frequently asked questions