Pork rib chops are a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer to sear them on the stovetop, bake them in the oven, or grill them outdoors, there’s no denying that pork rib chops are a crowd-pleaser.
But with so many different cooking methods and recipes out there, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to cook pork rib chops, from searing to baking to grilling.
So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Pork Rib Chops?
1. Searing on the Stovetop:
To sear pork rib chops on the stovetop, start by drizzling both sides of the chops with a bit of olive oil and seasoning them with salt and pepper. Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat and add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add garlic and cook until soft and golden. Remove the garlic and raise the heat to medium-high. Add the pork and cook until nicely browned, about 1-1/2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and lower the heat to medium. Add vinegar to the pan and return the chops immediately. Continue cooking until the pork is barely pink in the center, 2 to 4 minutes.
2. Baking in the Oven:
To bake pork rib chops in the oven, start by seasoning them with salt and pepper on both sides. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat a skillet until it is very hot, then add the chops, allowing plenty of room if cooking more than one. Brown for 4 minutes on each side, then move the skillet into the oven. Let the chops roast until reaching an internal temperature of 140°F, which will take around 4-8 minutes depending on their thickness.
3. Grilling Outdoors:
To grill pork rib chops outdoors, start by setting one half of your grill to high heat and the other side to medium. Sear chops over high heat for 4 minutes on each side, then move them to the medium side. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 140°F.
Choosing The Best Pork Rib Chops
When it comes to choosing the best pork rib chops, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, the thickness of the chops is crucial. Chops that are too thin will dry out quickly during cooking and result in a tough, unpleasant texture. Look for pork rib chops that are at least 1 inch thick for optimal results.
Another important factor to consider is the quality of the meat. While you may pay a bit more for higher quality pork, it will be well worth it in terms of flavor and texture. Look for pork that is humanely raised and never given antibiotics or added hormones. Heritage breed pork is a great option, as it tends to be more flavorful and contain more fat than conventionally raised pork.
When it comes to bone-in versus boneless pork rib chops, opt for bone-in cuts whenever possible. While the bone itself may not add much flavor, it helps to keep the integrity of the chop in place during cooking and also provides pockets of tasty fat throughout the meat.
Ultimately, when choosing the best pork rib chops, look for thick, high-quality cuts with plenty of fat and consider going for bone-in options for the best results.
Searing Pork Rib Chops On The Stovetop
Searing pork rib chops on the stovetop is a quick and easy way to cook this delicious cut of meat. To start, pat the chops dry with a paper towel and generously season them with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add some olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear them on one side without moving them at all until they are golden brown, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Flip the chops and sear the other side until browned.
It’s important to note that cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the pork chops. The easiest way to check if they are done is to use a meat thermometer. When they reach an internal temperature of 135°F, remove them from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 10 minutes. During this time, they will continue cooking with the residual heat and eventually reach 145°F.
For added flavor, you can also add garlic to the skillet while cooking the pork chops. Once it’s soft and golden, remove it from the skillet before adding the chops.
To finish off your meal, serve the pork chops with a side dish like Parmesan Pasta with Cabbage and Thyme and a tossed salad. Searing pork rib chops on the stovetop is a simple yet delicious way to cook this flavorful cut of meat that is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Baking Pork Rib Chops In The Oven
Baking pork rib chops in the oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare this cut of meat. To start, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with either aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy clean up.
Next, pat the pork rib chops dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper on both sides. In a small bowl, mix together your desired dry rub ingredients, such as brown sugar, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture over all sides of the pork chops until they are well coated.
Place the pork rib chops onto the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until their internal temperature reaches between 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to note that carryover cooking will occur when you remove the meat from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. During this time, the internal temperature will rise an additional 5-10 degrees.
When the pork rib chops are done baking, remove them from the oven and tent them with aluminum foil to allow them to rest. This will help to redistribute the juices throughout the meat and keep it moist and tender. After resting for a few minutes, serve your deliciously baked pork rib chops alongside your favorite sides.
Grilling Pork Rib Chops Outdoors
Grilling pork rib chops outdoors is a great way to enjoy the smoky flavor of the grill. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Prepare the Chops: Start by selecting good quality pork rib chops. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also use a dry rub or marinade to add more flavor.
2. Heat the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill to high heat, around 450°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals on one side of the grill and leave the other side empty.
3. Sear the Chops: Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Place the pork chops on the hot side of the grill and sear for 4 minutes on each side. This will give them a nice crust and seal in the juices.
4. Move to Indirect Heat: Once the chops are seared, move them to the cooler side of the grill or reduce the heat to medium. Cover and cook until they reach an internal temperature of 140°F. This will take around 4-8 minutes depending on their thickness.
5. Let Them Rest: Once cooked, remove the pork rib chops from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and make it more tender.
Grilling pork rib chops outdoors is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this cut of meat. With a little bit of seasoning and proper technique, you can create a mouthwatering meal that your family and friends will love.
Seasoning And Flavoring Pork Rib Chops
When it comes to seasoning and flavoring pork rib chops, there are a variety of options to choose from. One popular option is to use a dry rub, which is a mixture of spices that is rubbed onto the surface of the meat. A simple and delicious dry rub for pork rib chops can be made with pantry staples such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar.
To use this dry rub, simply measure out each spice and whisk them together to ensure even distribution. Then, use your hands to firmly rub the seasoning directly onto the surface of the pork rib chops, making sure to cover all sides. Let the meat sit for at least 15 minutes so the seasoning can sink in, but for even better results, let it sit for 2 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator.
The sweetness of brown sugar is a great balance to the natural savoriness of pork, while cumin, thyme, oregano, and mustard all mix beautifully with pork as well. Chili powder and paprika both add spice without overpowering. The result is a dry rub that is a little bit sweet but mostly savory and complements the flavor of pork perfectly.
Another option for seasoning and flavoring pork rib chops is to use a combination of garlic, kosher salt, brown sugar, thyme, sage, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This combination creates a foundation of flavors that add a delicate sweetness to an otherwise savory spice blend. Thyme and sage add herby and floral notes that complement pork’s flavor exceptionally well. The smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the seasoning blend and gives the pork chop beautiful color.
No matter which seasoning and flavoring method you choose for your pork rib chops, make sure to let them sit with the seasoning for at least 15 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to sink in. Whether searing on the stovetop, baking in the oven or grilling outdoors, properly seasoned and flavored pork rib chops are sure to be a hit at any meal.
Serving Suggestions For Pork Rib Chops
Now that you have learned how to cook pork rib chops, it’s time to think about the perfect side dishes to serve alongside them. Pork rib chops are a versatile cut of meat that can be paired with a variety of flavors and textures. Here are some serving suggestions that will make your pork rib chops even more delicious:
1. Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted vegetables are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with pork rib chops. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts. Simply toss your favorite vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven while your pork rib chops cook.
2. Mashed Potatoes:
Mashed potatoes are a comforting and hearty side dish that complement the rich flavor of pork rib chops. You can keep it simple with classic mashed potatoes made with butter and cream, or add some extra flavor with garlic or herbs.
3. Apple Sauce:
Apple sauce is a classic pairing with pork chops, and it works just as well with pork rib chops. The sweet and tangy flavor of apple sauce complements the savory flavor of the pork. You can make your own apple sauce by simmering peeled and chopped apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice.
4. Green Beans:
Green beans are a fresh and healthy side dish that add color and crunch to your plate. You can blanch them quickly in boiling water, then sauté them in butter with garlic and lemon zest.
5. Rice Pilaf:
Rice pilaf is a flavorful and fragrant side dish that pairs well with pork rib chops. You can make it with white or brown rice, and add ingredients like onions, garlic, herbs, and nuts for extra flavor.
6. Cornbread:
Cornbread is a classic Southern side dish that adds sweetness and texture to your meal. You can make it from scratch or use a mix, and serve it warm with butter or honey.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
Roasted sweet potatoes are a delicious and healthy side dish that pair well with pork rib chops. Simply toss diced sweet potatoes in olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon, then roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized.
By following these serving suggestions, you can create a delicious and well-rounded meal centered around juicy pork rib chops.