Are you looking for a culinary escape to the vibrant island of Puerto Rico, without leaving your kitchen? Look no further! In this article, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey through 20 mouth-watering Puerto Rican pork chop recipes perfect for weeknight dinners. From classic dishes like Bistec Encebollado (Puerto Rican Steak and Onions with Pork Chops) to innovative twists like Pork Chops in Coconut Milk and Annatto Sauce, these recipes showcase the rich cultural heritage of Puerto Rico’s cuisine.
With a mix of traditional cooking methods like grilling and braising, along with bold flavors and aromas inspired by tropical spices and herbs, you’ll discover a world of possibilities for pork chop lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, grab your apron and let’s get started!
Bistec Encebollado (Puerto Rican Steak and Onions with Pork Chops)
A classic Puerto Rican dish that combines tender steak and pork chops with caramelized onions, a hint of garlic, and a burst of flavor from sautéed bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak
– 2 pounds pork chops
– 3 large onions, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season steak and pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add garlic and bell peppers to the skillet; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Grill or pan-fry steak and pork chops until cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side.
6. Serve hot with caramelized onion mixture spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chuletas Fritas (Crispy Fried Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
Savor the authentic flavors of Puerto Rico with this mouthwatering recipe for crispy fried pork chops, a staple in many island households. This beloved dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, about 1-inch thick
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each pork chop in the beaten egg and then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured pork chops in buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Fry pork chops in hot oil (about 350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pernil-Style Pork Chops with Mojo Criollo
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba with this simple and delicious recipe for Pernil-Style Pork Chops with Mojo Criollo.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, about 1 inch thick
– 1/4 cup mojo criollo (see below for recipe)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mojo Criollo:
– 1/2 cup sour orange juice or lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mojo criollo ingredients.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of pork chops with olive oil and garlic.
5. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of mojo criollo over each pork chop.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pork reaches internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Puerto Rican Adobo-Marinated Grilled Pork Chops
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this mouthwatering dish, where succulent pork chops are marinated in a zesty adobo mixture and grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the pork chops to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade and brush with any excess liquid.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chuletas Guisadas (Braised Puerto Rican Pork Chops in Tomato Sauce)
A classic Puerto Rican dish, Chuletas Guisadas is a hearty and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This slow-cooked pork chop dish is smothered in a rich tomato sauce and served with crusty rice and warm tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Sear pork chops until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove pork from pot and set aside.
5. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper to pot.
7. Return pork chops to pot; cover with lid or foil.
8. Braise for 2 hours or until pork is tender and sauce has thickened.
9. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Pork Chops with Sofrito and Olives
Pork Chops with Sofrito and Olives Recipe
This flavorful recipe combines the richness of pork chops with the savory taste of sofrito, a classic Spanish condiment, and the brininess of olives. A perfect combination for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup Sofrito (see recipe below)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Sofrito Recipe:
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Sofrito ingredients. Add pork chops and toss to coat.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and top with sliced olives.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Puerto Rican Pork Chops Escabeche (Pickled Pork Chops)
A classic Puerto Rican dish that combines the rich flavors of pork with a tangy and spicy pickling sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, boneless
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the pork chops to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chuletas a la Parrilla con Piña (Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple)
Elevate your grilled pork chops with a sweet and savory twist by pairing them with caramelized pineapple rings.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, 1 inch thick
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into 1/2-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and cumin. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork chops.
3. Grill pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, place pineapple wedges on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Serve grilled pork chops with pineapple rings on top. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes total, depending on pork chop thickness and grilling time.
Pork Chops with Mofongo Stuffing
Pork Chops with Mofongo Stuffing Recipe
Mofongo is a traditional Puerto Rican dish made from mashed green plantains, stuffed with savory pork chops for a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 ripe green plantains
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel the plantains and cut into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add plantain pieces to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to brown.
5. Stuff each pork chop with the mofongo mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place the stuffed pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chuletas al Caldero (Puerto Rican Pot-Roasted Pork Chops)
A classic Puerto Rican dish, Chuletas al Caldero is a hearty and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner. This pot-roasted pork chop dish is slow-cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices, resulting in tender and juicy chops.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork chops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the pork chops, tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the pork chops are tender and fall-apart.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pork Chops in Coconut Milk and Annatto Sauce
Transform ordinary pork chops into a tropical getaway with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of coconut milk with the vibrant color and subtle bitterness of annatto. Serve with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons annatto powder
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, annatto powder, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger.
3. Place pork chops in a shallow baking dish and brush with the coconut-annatto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Puerto Rican Pork Chops with Sweet Plantain Glaze
Puerto Rican Pork Chops with Sweet Plantain Glaze Recipe
This mouthwatering recipe combines the rich flavors of pork chops with the sweetness of ripe plantains, creating a Caribbean-inspired masterpiece. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 large ripe plantains
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the pork chops to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine the plantain pieces, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
6. During the last 5 minutes of pork cooking time, brush the sweet plantain glaze all over the pork chops.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chuletas con Salsa de Cilantro (Pork Chops with Cilantro Sauce)
Savor the bold flavors of Mexico with this simple and aromatic recipe for pork chops smothered in a tangy cilantro sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, 1/2-inch thick
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the pork chops.
4. Grill the pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine chopped jalapeño (if using) with a splash of water to make a paste.
6. Remove the grilled pork chops from heat and brush with the cilantro-jalapeño paste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork Chops with Tostones and Garlic Mojo
A flavorful and satisfying combination of tender pork chops, crispy tostones, and a tangy garlic mojo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 ripe plantains
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Grill or pan-fry pork chops until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Meanwhile, slice plantains into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Fry in hot oil until crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
6. Serve pork chops with tostones and drizzle with Garlic Mojo sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Puerto Rican Stuffed Pork Chops with Ham and Cheese
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this mouthwatering recipe, where tender pork chops meet savory ham and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 1/2 cup chopped ham
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped ham, shredded cheese, garlic, and oregano.
3. Place pork chops on a flat surface. Divide the ham-cheese mixture evenly among the pork chops, spooning it onto one half of each chop.
4. Fold the other half of each pork chop over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed pork chops and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chuletas con Ají Dulce (Pork Chops with Sweet Peppers)
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this classic Chilean dish, where tender pork chops are paired with caramelized sweet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 large sweet peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking sheet.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add sliced sweet peppers and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until peppers are caramelized and tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Place pork chops in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve pork chops with sweet pepper mixture spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Chops in Criollo Beer Sauce
Elevate your pork chops game with this bold and flavorful recipe, featuring the richness of Criollo beer.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1 cup Criollo beer
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in Criollo beer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until reduced by half.
5. Return pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them. Sprinkle with paprika and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until pork reaches desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Puerto Rican Pork Chops with Rice and Beans
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this hearty dish, featuring tender pork chops smothered in a savory sauce and served alongside creamy rice and flavorful beans.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add pork chops; cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until browned.
3. Transfer pork chops to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions. Combine with black beans and water; bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Serve pork chops with rice and bean mixture.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chuletas con Limón y Ajo (Lemon-Garlic Pork Chops)
Zesty and flavorful, this Spanish-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With the brightness of lemon and the depth of garlic, these pork chops are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, about 1 inch thick
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and lemon juice.
3. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from the oven and brush with the garlic-lemon mixture.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Chops with Mango-Habanero Glaze
This sweet and spicy glaze elevates pork chops to a new level, perfect for a summer dinner party or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of juicy mango and fiery habanero peppers will have your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients:
• 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 2 ripe mangos, diced
• 1/4 cup habanero pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine mango, habanero peppers, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the mango-habanero glaze evenly over each chop.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for flavorful and delicious Puerto Rican pork chop recipes to spice up your weeknights? Look no further! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the island’s rich culinary heritage. From crispy fried chuletas to slow-cooked pernil-style chops, you’ll find a variety of dishes to suit every taste. Discover how to marinate pork chops in mojo criollo or adobo, and learn how to stuff them with mofongo or ham and cheese. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like bistec encebollado or something new like coconut milk and annatto sauce, this collection has got you covered.
Leave a Reply