Savory Pork Chop Recipe – Simple and Delicious

Welcome to the world of the Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe – a recipe that has been passed down for generations and perfected over time. This recipe is an epitome of deliciousness and warmth that you can share with your loved ones.

If you are looking for a recipe that is easy to make, yet impresses your guests with its flavors and juiciness, then this is it. We have meticulously crafted every step of this recipe to ensure that it delivers in terms of texture, depth, and variety of flavors.

The Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe has been created in the small town of Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. It is the flagship dish served at Embers restaurant, where food lovers come to experience the rich aroma and feel satisfied beyond measure.

This irresistible pork chop recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a weeknight dinner. It’s kid-friendly, requires minimal preparation and ingredients that can be easily found at any grocery store.

So what are you waiting for? Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you coming back for more. Trust us, after just one bite, you’ll be hooked on this Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe forever.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Embers Original 1# Pork Chop
The Embers Original 1# Pork Chop

The Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe is a culinary masterpiece that is sure to leave you and your guests satisfied. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to backyard barbecues. The embers original one-pound pork chop recipe is rich in flavor, juicy and tender, and packed with all the essential nutrients you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What makes this recipe special is the mouth-watering blend of seasoning that makes it truly memorable. With a mixture of dry mustard, brown sugar, Heinz Chili Sauce, Heinz ketchup, water, salt, dark molasses, brown sugar, water, and soy sauce that work together harmoniously to create a lasting impression on your taste buds. These ingredients are carefully mixed together and allowed to marinate overnight before grilling or baking.

The result is a delectable dish that is infused with the perfect balance of sweet and savory tastes that are enhanced even more when paired with your favorite beverage. Whether you choose to enjoy this meal at home or at a cozy restaurant nestled in the heart of Mt Pleasant, Michigan – where the Embers Original One-Pound Pork Chop Recipe first originated – you will be impressed by how scrumptious it tastes.

Finally, this recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your unique preferences. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add jalapenos or even porterhouse pork steak instead of pork chops to spice things up some more. Alternatively, you can serve it with fried pork loin or simply grilled vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

In conclusion, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t try out The Embers Original One-Pound Pork Chop Recipe today. Trust me; You’ll fall in love with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will leave you asking for seconds!

Ingredient List

 Let's start by searing this bad boy!
Let’s start by searing this bad boy!

Pork Chops: You’ll need one pound of bone-in pork chops or a porterhouse pork steak for this recipe.

Embers Original Sauce: This recipe will not be complete without the Embers Original sauce which gives the dish a savory and tangy flavor. You’ll need two cups of Embers Original sauce to make the marinade.

Brown Sugar: For this recipe, you’ll need one cup of brown sugar which balances out the tangy flavor of the embers original sauce.

Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is a staple in many marinades and you’ll need two cups of soy sauce to give your pork chops a rich flavor.

Water: Water is essential for dissolving the sugar and salt in the marinade. You’ll need two cups of water for this recipe.

Dark Molasses and Salt: Molasses gives the dish a depth of flavor and you’ll need one tablespoon of dark molasses and one teaspoon of salt for this recipe.

Heinz Ketchup, Chili Sauce, and Dry Mustard: These three ingredients are used to make the red sauce that’s brushed on the pork chops. You will need Heinz ketchup (one cup), Heinz chili sauce (one cup), and dry mustard (one teaspoon) to make it.

Jalapeno (optional): If you’d like to add some heat to your dish, you can add some jalapeno in the marinade or chop them up as a garnish.

The Recipe How-To

 A juicy, mouth-watering pork chop that's sure to impress
A juicy, mouth-watering pork chop that’s sure to impress

Let’s get cooking! Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing the Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of soy sauce, 2 cups of water, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 cup of dark molasses, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 2: Marinate the pork chops

Place one pound pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag, pour the marinade over the pork chops. Seal the bag and refrigerate it for at least two hours but preferably overnight.

Step 3: Preheat and prepare

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Cut pork chops into chops about one inch thick, and pour any remaining marinade into a saucepan over medium-low heat.

Step 4: Cook the pork chops

Place the marinated pork chops on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cook for about 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Make the sauce

Add ½ cup Heinz Ketchup, ½ cup Heinz Chili Sauce to the remaining marinade in the saucepan. Heat it up over medium-high heat and bring it to boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy!

Serve each chop with a generous amount of sauce poured over it. This recipe pairs wonderfully with some grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes on the side.

There you have it – a scrumptious recipe that is tried and tested here at Embers Pork Store in Mt Pleasant, Michigan!

Substitutions and Variations

 Can you smell the aroma? I wish this photo was scratch and sniff
Can you smell the aroma? I wish this photo was scratch and sniff

The Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe is a classic recipe that can be enjoyed as is, but some substitutions and variations can elevate its flavors even more.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the pork chops for a porterhouse pork steak or fried pork loin. These cuts are just as flavorful and add a unique twist to the dish. You can also add some jalapenos to the marinating sauce for a spicy kick.

For those who prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of soy sauce in the recipe or even substitute it with tamari or coconut aminos. You can also experiment with different types of molasses, such as blackstrap or regular molasses.

If you don’t have Heinz Chili Sauce on hand, Worcestershire sauce can be used as a substitute. The same goes for Heinz ketchup; any high-quality ketchup will do.

Lastly, if you’re serving this dish to guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Whatever your preference may be, don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with substitutions and variations to make this classic recipe your own!

Serving and Pairing

 When it comes to pork chops, size does matter
When it comes to pork chops, size does matter

When it comes to serving and pairing the Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe, you will want to keep things simple and let the flavors of the pork chops shine through. One great option for pairing is a fresh green salad with a tart vinaigrette dressing. The acidity in the vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the pork chops.

If you want something heartier, roasted or grilled root vegetables are an excellent choice. Root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips or sweet potatoes complement the sweetness of the glaze on the pork chops while providing a satisfying texture to this dish. Additionally, grilled corn on the cob or mashed potatoes also make for great choices.

Another good option is to serve these pork chops with a rich, full-bodied red wine such as Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon. The bold flavors in these wines cut through the richness of the pork and help to balance out the sweetness of the sauce.

Overall, just about any side dish that is not too heavy or overpowering will work well with this recipe. Letting the pork chops be the star of the show is key, so choose your accompanying dishes wisely and enjoy every bite of this delicious meal!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 Nothing beats the sound of a sizzling pork chop
Nothing beats the sound of a sizzling pork chop

If you are hosting a party or planning for a family dinner, having make-ahead options can save you time and minimize the kitchen mess. Fortunately, this Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for reheating later.

To make ahead of time, cook the pork chops according to the recipe instructions and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer them onto an airtight container and store in the fridge. The pork chops can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.

When it’s time to serve, you can reheat the pork chops in two ways. First, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for around 15 minutes until they are heated through. Alternatively, microwave them for about 2-3 minutes until they are warm.

It’s important to note that the pork chops may lose their crispy texture when reheated. To counter this, you can pan-fry them on medium heat until they reach a golden brown color. If you decide to pan-fry them, be sure to use vegetable oil or butter enough to cover the bottom of the pan.

You can also freeze these pork chops for later use. Simply cook according to instructions provided earlier and then let them cool completely before transferring them into an airtight freezer-safe container. When ready for consumption, defrost overnight in your refrigerator and then follow the reheating steps above.

With these storage and reheating tips on hand, you won’t have to stress about making dinner at crunch time anymore!

Tips for Perfect Results

 The golden crust is the cherry on top
The golden crust is the cherry on top

To ensure the best results for this Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe, there are a few tips and tricks that will take your dish from good to outstanding.

Tip #1: Marinate for Success

The key to making the juiciest and flavorful pork chops is all in the marinade. It’s recommended to marinate the pork chops for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. The longer the chops sit in the marinade, the more they soak up the flavors of soy sauce, water, dark molasses, brown sugar and other ingredients. Remember to frequently turn the pork chops while marinating or flip them halfway through if you don’t have time to do it frequently.

Tip #2: Prep Your Grill

Whether you’re cooking on a grill or a cast-iron skillet, it’s crucial to properly preheat before cooking. Cooking on low heat will ensure even cooking and allows time for the flavors to permeate into the meat. If you’re grilling outdoors, make sure your fire isn’t too hot or too cold. A temperature of around 400 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for achieving a perfect golden brown crust and tender meat inside.

Tip #3: Let Pork Chops Rest

Once your pork chops are done cooking, resist the urge to dig right in! Allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes undisturbed on a warm platter. This resting period lets them absorb their juices back into their fibers and won’t dry out as you cut into them.

Tip #4: Cut Your Pork Chops Right

It’s essential to cut your pork chops correctly for even distribution of flavor and tenderness. To retain moisture and tenderness, slice with a sharp knife across the grain of the meat in parallel strips.

By following these tips, you will be sure to impress your guests with perfectly juicy and flavorful Embers Original 1# Pork Chops.

FAQ

As we near the end of this recipe article for Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe, let’s address some common questions that may arise while preparing this scrumptious meal.

What is the secret to moist pork chops?

If you want to cook the perfect pork chops for your guests, it’s essential to start with the right cut of meat. Unlike other meats, brining isn’t necessary for pork chops, so you can prep the meat quickly. Before cooking, it’s crucial to let the pork chops rest on the counter for a while to bring them to room temperature. One of the secrets to producing juicy pork chops is fat. Don’t overcook the meat and let it rest appropriately before serving.

How long does it take to bake one pork chop?

When cooking pork chops, the cooking time largely depends on the thickness of the chop. As a rule of thumb, for every half inch of thickness, you should cook the pork chops for about 7 to 8 minutes at a temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit. So, if you have 3/4-inch-thick chops, they should be fully cooked in around 10 to 12 minutes, while 1-inch-thick chops will need 15 to 16 minutes on the grill or in the oven.

How do you cook pork chops so they aren’t tough and dry?

For juicy and flavorful pork chops that are cooked to perfection, opt for thick-cut bone-in pork chops instead of thin ones. Thin cuts tend to cook too quickly and won’t have enough time to develop a good sear. Additionally, it is not necessary to brine the pork chops. However, make sure that the chops are seasoned generously to bring out their natural flavors.

Once the pork chops are fully cooked, let them rest for a while to ensure even distribution of the juices. Next, sear them over medium-high heat for that sought-after crispy and charred coating. For extra flavor, baste the pork chops with the pan juices using a spoon or a pastry brush.

It is crucial to let the pork chops rest once again before serving. This final resting period ensures that the juices are retained, and the meat remains tender and moist. Finally, serve the pork chops and savor their delightful texture and taste.

What are the two cooking methods best recommended for pork chop?

Pork chops make for a delicious dish, but cooking them to perfection can be tricky. I have found that using high-heat frying to get that golden brown look, followed by a moderately hot oven at 400 degrees F, is the perfect way to keep the pork chops juicy and tender. To achieve this, I use the “sear-roasting” method where I fry one side until it’s golden brown, then flip, and place the pork chops in the oven directly. This technique results in a mouth-watering, succulent meal that is sure to impress your guests.

Bottom Line

In summary, the Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe is a must-try for any home chef or party host looking to impress guests with a savory and succulent dish. The blend of ingredients such as soy sauce, dry mustard, and brown sugar create a unique flavor profile that will leave your guests craving more.

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it is also flexible in terms of serving and pairing options. Whether you choose to pair it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, this dish can be adapted to fit your culinary preferences.

Additionally, the recipe offers make-ahead, storing and reheating tips for those who want to save time or have leftovers. Furthermore, the tips for perfect results ensure that even novice cooks can achieve the desired texture and taste.

Overall, I highly recommend trying this recipe in your home kitchen to elevate your cooking skills and impress your friends and family. So why not gather the ingredients together and try making the Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe today? Trust me; you won’t regret it!

The Embers Original 1# Pork Chop

The Embers Original 1# Pork Chop Recipe

One of my father's favorite restaurants in Mt Pleasant, Mi - served this for years. We have the original recipe card dating back over 30 years and I am posting it here in honor of my father - and so it is never lost.
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Prep Time 1 d
Cook Time 2 hrs 45 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 chops
Calories 1106.2 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 lbs pork chops

Marinating Sauce

  • 2 cups soy sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon dark molasses
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Red Sauce

  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1 (14 ounce) bottle Heinz ketchup
  • 1 (12 ounce) bottle Heinz Chili Sauce
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon dry mustard

Instructions
 

  • Marinating Sauce:
  • Take soy sauce, water, brown sugar, molasses and salt - mix together in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
  • Let cool.
  • Put chops in a pan with bone side up.
  • Pour marinade over the pork chops and let stand overnight in refrigerator.
  • Take chops out of marinade, place in baking pan and cover tightly with foil.
  • Put in 375 degree oven and bake until tender - about 2 hours.
  • Red Sauce.
  • While chops are baking, combine all red sauce ingredients in heavy saucepan or double boiler.
  • Mix well - leaving no lumps.
  • Bring all ingredients to a slight boil.
  • After chops are tender, remove from oven and dip in red sauce.
  • Take chops after dipping and place in baking pan and bake for 30 minutes in 350 degree oven or until slightly glazed.
  • Both sauces can be reused if brought to a boil and stored in refrigerator or frozen.
  • For an extra flavor keep at room temperature until you are ready to put on a charcoal pit or grill. Have grill as high as possible from coals, not a large bed of coals is needed. Place finished chops on grill, let cook slowly, a little blacking does not hurt chops -- grilling should not take more than 15 minutes.

Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 575gCalories: 1106.2kcalCarbohydrates: 72gProtein: 106.9gFat: 41.8gSaturated Fat: 13.7gCholesterol: 313mgSodium: 7508.4mgFiber: 4.4gSugar: 60.2g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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