When the craving for takeout strikes, but you’d rather skip the drive and stay in the comfort of your home, Peking Pork Chops come to the rescue! This dish has a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors that dances on your palate, and the crispy texture is simply irresistible. I first prepared this dish one rainy evening, yearning for something comforting yet bold, and it quickly became a household favorite.
Imagine the rich aroma of the marinade mingling with the sizzling sound of pork frying to perfection. It’s a recipe that promises not just ease but also a delightful surprise for your taste buds—all in about 40 minutes! With simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch, you can bring the essence of an authentic Chinese takeout right to your kitchen. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your family or have a special weekday treat that’s far from ordinary. Your new favorite dinner is just a few steps away!
Why will you love Peking Pork Chops?
Simplicity: This recipe uses everyday ingredients, making it easy for anyone to whip up a delicious meal at home.
Bold Flavors: A perfect fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy notes gives every bite an exciting flavor burst.
Crispy Texture: The deep-frying creates a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist, elevating your dining experience.
Quick Preparation: In just 40 minutes, you can serve this restaurant-quality dish that your family will adore.
Versatile Pairing: Serve with steamed rice or fresh vegetables, and adjust the spice level to cater to your taste!
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress guests at a dinner party or bring joy to a cozy family meal with this irresistible recipe.
Peking Pork Chops Ingredients
For the Pork
• 1 lb pork tenderloin – or use pork spare ribs, cut into 1/2-inch slices for a delicious option.
• Oil – about 2 cups, necessary for deep frying to achieve that crispy finish.
For the Marinade
• 1 egg – binds the ingredients and helps create a crispy coating.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – acts as a tenderizer and adds crunch when fried.
• 1/2 teaspoon Shaoxing wine – enhances flavor with its rich, savory profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – brings out the natural flavors of the pork.
For the Peking Sauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons tomato ketchup – adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the sauce.
• 1/2 tablespoon plum sauce – contributes a sweet, fruity taste that’s essential for Peking dishes.
• 1/2 tablespoon chili sauce – infuses heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon sweet bean sauce – or hoisin sauce; it adds depth and complexity to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – brings umami richness to the sauce overall.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons black vinegar – provides a distinct tang that complements the other flavors.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar – balances the dish’s savory elements beautifully.
• 1 pinch Chinese five-spice powder – optional, for an aromatic touch.
• 2 tablespoons water – helps to blend all the sauce ingredients for a velvety finish.
For the Finishing Touch
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds – optional, sprinkle on top for added crunch and flavor.
How to Make Peking Pork Chops
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Prepare the Pork: Pat dry the pork tenderloin using kitchen paper towels. Use a mallet or the back of a Chinese cleaver to pound the slices until tender (skip this if using spare ribs). Set aside while you create the marinade.
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Marinate: In a bowl, blend the marinade ingredients. Add the pork slices and ensure they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse beautifully.
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Make the Sauce: In another bowl, combine all the Peking sauce ingredients. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or heat according to your taste preferences. Set this savory mixture aside for later.
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Heat the Oil: In a wok, heat enough oil for deep-frying over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully lower the pork slices into the oil and fry for about 5 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
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Combine and Serve: Bring the sauce to a quick boil, then add the fried pork chops, stirring gently to coat the meat with the sauce evenly. Transfer the delectable pork chops to a serving platter and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy immediately with steamed rice.
Optional: Serve with steamed vegetables for a colorful, healthy side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Peking Pork Chops are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the pork slices up to 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply follow the marinating instructions, then cover the pork in an airtight container and refrigerate. The Peking sauce can also be prepared ahead of time, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, all you need to do when you’re ready to serve is fry the pork until crispy, reheat the sauce, and combine the two for a quick, effortless meal. This approach not only saves time during busy weeknights but also ensures your Peking Pork Chops are just as delicious as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Peking Pork Chops
Room Temperature: Serve your Peking Pork Chops immediately for the best flavor and texture. Do not leave out for longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain the pork’s tenderness.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the pork chops in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warming.
Reheating: Reheat in a hot skillet or oven for the best results, restoring that crispy exterior while warming through. Enjoy the deliciousness of your Peking Pork Chops once more!
Expert Tips for Peking Pork Chops
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Key Ingredient Prep: Always pat the pork dry before marinating. This helps the marinade adhere better and prevents excess moisture during frying.
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Marination Time: Allow the pork to marinate for a full 30 minutes. This not only infuses the flavors deeply but also tenderizes the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy.
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Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; if not, the pork will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Test by dropping a small piece in—if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
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Crispy Finish: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying; this ensures the pork chops get that wonderful golden-brown, crispy texture. Fry in batches if necessary!
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Sauce Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients to suit your taste. A little more chili sauce can provide that extra kick if you’re after more heat in your Peking pork chops!
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Serving Suggestions: Pair these pork chops with steamed rice or sautéed greens for a balanced meal that will leave everyone satisfied!
Variations & Substitutions for Peking Pork Chops
Feel free to put your own spin on these delicious pork chops to match your cravings and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce in the marinade to make this dish gluten-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
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Pork Alternatives: Substitute chicken breast or tofu for a lighter option that still absorbs the wonderful marinade and sauce flavors.
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Baked Version: Instead of frying, coat the pork with a small amount of oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes until cooked through and crispy.
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Vegetable Boost: Add thinly sliced bell peppers or snap peas to the frying oil to create a colorful and crunchy side that pairs beautifully with the pork.
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Spice Level: Increase the amount of chili sauce or add fresh minced chili peppers for a fiery kick that will elevate your dish!
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Sweet Balance: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that adds a unique twist to your Peking sauce.
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Fresh Herbs: Toss in some chopped cilantro or green onions before serving to add a vibrant freshness that complements the savory flavors.
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Nutty Flavor: Drizzle some toasted sesame oil over the finished dish for a rich, nutty note that rounds out the entire meal.
What to Serve with Peking Pork Chops?
Transport your taste buds to an Asian culinary adventure with pairings that beautifully complement the rich flavors of this dish.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, aromatic rice absorbs the savory sauce perfectly, enhancing the overall experience. It’s a classic partner that balances the dish beautifully.
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Stir-Fried Broccoli: This vibrantly green vegetable adds a crunch and a fresh, nutty flavor that contrasts delightfully with the crispy pork. Plus, it brings an alluring pop of color to your plate!
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Asian Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw featuring cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing brings a crisp, tangy bite that cuts through the richness of the pork. It’s a colorful way to add some crunch to your meal.
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Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar provides a cool contrast to the warm, rich pork. It’s a perfect palate cleanser between bites.
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Spicy Garlic Edamame: These tender, protein-packed soybeans add a delightful dash of spice and a playful texture to your meal, making for a fun appetizer or side dish that everyone loves.
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Fruity Lychee Iced Tea: Complement the flavors with this sweet and floral beverage that cools and refreshes your palate between bites. It’s light yet flavorful, perfect for a warm evening.
Peking Pork Chops Recipe FAQs
What kind of pork should I use for Peking Pork Chops?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is the recommended option for its tenderness, pork spare ribs can also make a delicious alternative. Just ensure you cut them into 1/2-inch thick slices for the best cooking results.
How should I store leftover Peking Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, try to do so in a skillet over medium heat to bring back that crispy texture. The more the merrier, so don’t hesitate to enjoy them again!
Can I freeze Peking Pork Chops?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooled pork chops in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They will keep for up to 3 months. For the best quality, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How can I tell if the pork is cooked correctly?
Excellent question! Properly cooked pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (62.8°C). Ensure the pork is no longer pink in the center, and juices run clear. A meat thermometer can be a handy tool to achieve this.
What should I do if my sauce is too sweet?
If you find your Peking sauce a bit too sweet for your liking, try adding a splash of black vinegar or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. Alternatively, you could blend in some chili sauce for a delightful kick that also cuts the sweetness!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! To make your Peking Pork Chops gluten-free, replace the soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce) with a gluten-free alternative like tamari. Double-check all your sauces for gluten content to ensure a delicious, safe meal for everyone.
Savor Irresistible Peking Pork Chops: Homemade Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat dry the pork tenderloin using kitchen paper towels. Use a mallet to pound the slices until tender, then set aside.
- In a bowl, blend the marinade ingredients. Add the pork slices and ensure they are evenly coated. Let marinate for about 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine all the Peking sauce ingredients and set aside.
- Heat enough oil for deep-frying in a wok over medium-high heat. Fry the pork slices for about 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, add the fried pork chops, and stir to coat. Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.