Heritage Marinated Baked Pork Chops bring a burst of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors right to your table. With easy-to-find ingredients and a simple marinade, this recipe elevates everyday pork chops to a whole new level.
Pork chops are the star of the show here, providing a hearty and satisfying main dish. Choose bone-in for extra flavor. Soy sauce adds a salty, umami kick that enhances the meat's natural taste. Apple cider vinegar helps tenderize the pork while adding a slight tang that balances the sweetness. Olive oil keeps everything moist and helps the marinade stick to the chops. Worcestershire sauce contributes a complex depth with its blend of savory and sweet notes. Brown sugar brings a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully as the chops bake.
Garlic infuses the marinade with its unmistakable aroma and flavor. Dried thyme adds an earthy, herbal note that complements the pork. Paprika provides a subtle smokiness and a warm color, while black pepper adds just enough heat to tickle the taste buds. Lastly, the optional cayenne pepper can give your chops a little extra kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
These marinated pork chops pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the rich flavors. For a heartier meal, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf.
Start by gathering all your ingredients; this makes the process much smoother. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic, dried thyme, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). This marinade is your flavor base.
Next, take your pork chops and place them in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chops, seal the bag, and give it a gentle shake to ensure the marinade coats every piece. Let the pork sit in this flavorful bath in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. If you can let them marinate overnight, even better!
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the marinated pork chops out of the fridge, remove them from the marinade, and place them on a baking dish. Discard the marinade since it’s done its job.
Bake the pork chops in your preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which keeps the meat juicy and tender. Once they’re done, let the pork chops rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. This rest period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent.
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