This pork chop marinade is a game-changer! With simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, it makes your pork chops juicy and full of flavor!
I love how easy it is to whip up this marinade. Marinating is like giving your pork a spa day—who doesn’t want that? 🥳 Just mix, pour, and let it soak in all that goodness!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in pork chops as they stay moist and flavorful while cooking. If you prefer boneless, go for those. Just adjust cooking times, as boneless chops can cook faster.
Soy Sauce: This is key for umami flavor! If you’re avoiding soy, use tamari or coconut aminos instead. Both options offer a similar salty taste.
Olive Oil: I find that extra virgin olive oil adds a nice richness. For a different flavor, try avocado oil or canola oil. They also work well in marinades.
Honey: It adds a touch of sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, maple syrup or agave nectar are great substitutes.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This vinegar brings tanginess to the marinade. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or regular vinegar can work too, but be cautious with stronger varieties.
Spices: Feel free to mix spices! I like adding a bit of chili powder for heat or rosemary for herby notes. Experiment with what you enjoy!
How Do You Make Sure the Marinade Really Penetrates the Pork Chops?
To maximize flavor, marinating is essential. A good marinade should have enough liquid and acid, like vinegar, to penetrate the meat. Here are some tips:
- Use a resealable bag for even coverage—squeeze out air and seal it tight.
- Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is better. If you can, try marinating overnight for the best flavor.
- Remember to coat the pork chops well in the marinade; give them a gentle massage!
With these techniques and ingredient tips, your pork chops will be bursting with flavor!
How to Make the Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious marinade requires about 10 minutes to prepare. After that, let the pork chops marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours if you want more flavor). Cooking the pork chops will take another 10-12 minutes. In total, you should expect about 1 hour if you’re allowing time for marinating and cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, and black pepper until everything is nicely blended. This flavorful mixture will make your pork chops delicious!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they’re all well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it into the refrigerator. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak in all the flavors. If you have time, letting them sit for up to 8 hours is even better!
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Grill or cook the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side. They’re ready when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and you see nice grill marks!
4. Let Them Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the heat and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely touch. Enjoy your tasty and juicy pork chops!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Marinade?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with various cuts of pork, such as boneless chops, tenderloin, or even ribs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; thinner cuts will need less time on the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you don’t have honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener. Both will provide a similar sweetness and flavor profile. Just use the same amount as the honey in the recipe!
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork?
You can marinate the pork chops for as little as 30 minutes or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor. If you marinate longer, just ensure to keep them in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! The marinade can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This is perfect for meal prep or if you want to save time on cooking day. Just give it a good whisk before using!
