The first time I took a bite of Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites, I was astounded by how such a simple dish could pack a punch of flavor. Picture the crispy exterior giving way to tender, juicy pork, enhanced by a rich blend of spices and the enticing aroma of sautéed garlic. This quick recipe is perfect for anyone tired of fast food, offering a delicious homemade alternative that’s bound to impress.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can easily whip these up for a cozy dinner or a fun appetizer for friends. The combination of Shaoxing wine and Szechuan peppercorns adds a depth that tantalizes the taste buds, while the vibrant jalapeños and chili peppers deliver a delightful kick. If you’re on a quest for a dish that brings excitement back to weeknight meals, look no further. Let’s dive into creating these irresistible bites that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why are Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites irresistible?
Savoriness at Its Finest: Each bite bursts with bold flavors from the combination of spices and peppers, ensuring everyone will love them.
Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether for a casual dinner or a party appetizer, these bites are perfect for any gathering.
Crispy and Tender: Experience the delightful contrast of a crispy exterior and juicy, tender pork that keeps you coming back for more.
Versatile and Fun: Customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or serving over rice for a complete meal. If you want more quick fixes for your weeknight meals, don’t forget to check our collection of delightful recipes!
Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites Ingredients
• Get ready to create something delicious!
For the Pork
- Pork chops – thick-cut and in 1-inch pieces for perfect bite-sized morsels.
- Shaoxing wine – adds a depth of flavor, but sherry can be substituted if needed.
- Soy sauce – use tamari sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Sesame oil – brings a nutty aroma that enhances the dish.
- Salt – simple but crucial for balancing flavors.
For the Coating
- Cornstarch – helps create that satisfying crispy texture you crave.
- Jalapeños – seed and dice for a spicy kick that elevates those flavors.
- Garlic – minced for a wonderful aromatic base.
- Szechuan peppercorns – introduces a unique numbing spice that compliments the pork.
For Frying
- Vegetable oil – used for frying to create a golden-brown crust.
- Red chili peppers – thinly sliced to add vibrant color and texture.
- Green chili peppers – ensure a dynamic medley of flavors.
For the Breading
- Cornstarch – an extra layer for crunch and crispiness.
- Rice flour – contributes to the light and airy coating.
- White pepper – provides a subtle, warm spice.
- Coarse salt – enhances the crispy outer layer.
- Coarse black pepper – adds a bit of warmth that compliments the overall dish.
With these single-focused ingredients at your fingertips, you’ll be well on your way to creating irresistible Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites that’ll tantalize everyone’s taste buds!
How to Make Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites
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Prepare the Pork: Cut pork chops into 1-inch pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and salt. Toss everything to coat evenly and let it marinate for 5 to 10 minutes.
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Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat ¼ cup of vegetable oil until shimmering, around 350°F. This temperature is ideal for frying, ensuring that the pork gets a beautiful golden color.
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Create the Paste: In a mortar, combine 3 garlic cloves, Szechuan peppercorns, and diced jalapeños. Use a pestle to pound them into a fragrant paste, releasing all those delicious flavors.
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Slice the Peppers: Thinly slice the red and green chili peppers along with the remaining 3 garlic cloves. Place them in a bowl and toss with ½ tablespoon of vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch for a tasty coating.
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Fry the Peppers: Add the seasoned peppers and garlic to the hot oil and pan fry for about 1 minute until vibrant. Remove them and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb the excess oil.
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Coat the Pork: In a bowl, mix cornstarch, rice flour, and white pepper. Add this blend to the marinated pork and toss until every piece is evenly coated for that perfect crispy bite.
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Fry the Pork: Carefully add the coated pork to the hot oil and pan fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown. Remember to flip them for even cooking. Once done, set them on a plate alongside the fried peppers.
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Reduce Oil: Use a paper towel to gently soak up some of the vegetable oil in the pan, leaving about 2 to 3 teaspoons to coat the bottom of the pan.
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Cook the Paste: Add the jalapeño garlic paste into the remaining oil and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This will enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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Combine & Toss: Now, return the fried pork, peppers, and leftover garlic to the pan. Stir everything together for just a minute to combine all those wonderful flavors.
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Season & Serve: Remove from heat, then toss with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper for that final flavor boost. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that bring harmony to these irresistible bites.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice complements the crispy pork, providing a neutral base to soak up flavorful juices.
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Sautéed Bok Choy: Crisp bok choy adds a refreshing crunch, while its mild flavor balances the savory spices perfectly.
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Garlic Noodles: Rich, buttery garlic noodles enhance the dish’s umami goodness, creating a textural contrast that’s simply irresistible.
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Spicy Pickled Vegetables: A tangy and spicy crunch from pickled veggies brings brightness to the meal, cutting through the richness and giving every bite an exciting twist.
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Chilled Asian Slaw: Crisp cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing provide a cool, zesty bite that wonderfully offsets the warm, savory pork.
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Coconut Creamed Spinach: Creamy, coconut-infused spinach adds a luscious touch to your plate, enriching the flavor experience with each spoonful.
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Crisp White Wine: A light, aromatic white wine is the perfect drink to refresh your palate, bringing out the intricate flavors of the dish without overpowering them.
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Mango Sorbet: Finish the meal with a scoop of refreshing mango sorbet. Its sweetness and tropical notes create a delightful conclusion to the spicy feast.
Expert Tips for Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites
• Choose the Right Pork: Opt for thick-cut pork chops to achieve that perfect tenderness and juicy interior. Thin cuts may dry out too quickly.
• Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying. This ensures that your Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites get crispy without absorbing too much oil.
• Marinate Well: Allowing the pork to marinate for at least 5-10 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, enhancing the overall taste and richness.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking and soggy bites.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to customize the heat according to your taste—add more jalapeños or opt for milder peppers for a gentler kick.
• Watch the Time: Keep an eye on frying times; pork should be golden-brown and crispy in about 2 to 3 minutes per side to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free. Enjoy without missing a beat!
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Spicy Heat Boost: Add extra sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a fiery punch in each bite.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil during the stir-frying process for an aromatic twist that uplifts the flavors.
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Citrus Zest: Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of lime or lemon zest before serving to brighten up the savory notes and add a refreshing zing.
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Sweet and Spicy: Incorporate a teaspoon of honey or sugar into the marinade for a delightful sweet contrast to the heat.
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Veggie Variation: Mix in diced bell peppers or snap peas for a colorful, crunchy addition that complements the pork beautifully.
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Coconut Crust: Replace regular cornstarch with shredded coconut for a tropical flair and an interesting texture that’s both crunchy and chewy.
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Baked Alternative: For a healthier option, coat the pork bites and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Storage Tips for Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites
Room Temperature: These bites are best enjoyed hot and fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can sit out for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftover Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain their crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the frozen bites on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.
Make Ahead Options
These Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the pork in Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and salt up to 24 hours in advance to maximize flavor. Additionally, you can pre-slice the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the oil, fry the marinated pork according to the instructions, and combine with the prepped peppers and garlic paste. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort—ideal for busy weeknights!
Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pork for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pork for your Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites, opt for thick-cut pork chops that are about one-inch thick. This ensures that your bites remain tender and juicy while achieving that perfect crispy texture. Thin cuts may dry out too quickly during cooking, so stick with the thicker chops for the best results.
What’s the best way to store leftover pork chop bites?
Very! To store any leftover Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you want to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in a skillet on medium heat or in the oven at 375°F to keep their crispy exterior.
Can I freeze Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze your cooked bites. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for about an hour. Once they are solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and they will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them directly from frozen at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my pork bites are getting soggy?
Ah, we’ve all been there! To ensure your Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites remain crispy, it’s critical not to overcrowd the pan when frying. Fry them in batches if necessary to allow proper airflow. Also, ensure your oil is sufficiently hot (around 350°F) before adding the pork, as this will help create that coveted crispy crust. If they do end up a bit soggy, you can try reheating them in the oven to regain some crispiness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, you can easily adjust this recipe. Substitute tamari sauce for soy sauce to make it gluten-free. You can also omit the spicy peppers for a milder dish or use different spices to suit your preferences. Always ensure to check allergens in your ingredients, such as any sauces or additives that might contain common allergens.
How do I tell when my pork chop bites are fully cooked?
To guarantee your Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F. Additionally, the pork will be golden brown and crispy on the outside, which is a good visual cue that they are ready to be enjoyed. If you’re unsure, cut one piece open; it should be juicy and opaque without any pinkness remaining.
Savory Salt & Pepper Pork Chop Bites for Quick Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the pork by cutting into 1-inch pieces and marinating in Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and salt for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan until shimmering, around 350°F.
- Make the paste by pounding garlic cloves, Szechuan peppercorns, and diced jalapeños in a mortar.
- Thinly slice red and green chili peppers, toss with vegetable oil and cornstarch.
- Fry the peppers and garlic for about 1 minute until vibrant, then drain on paper towels.
- Coat the marinated pork with the mix of cornstarch, rice flour, and white pepper.
- Fry the coated pork for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown, then set aside.
- Reduce the oil in the pan, leaving about 2 to 3 teaspoons.
- Cook the jalapeño garlic paste in the remaining oil for 30 seconds.
- Combine the fried pork, peppers, and leftover garlic in the pan, stirring for one minute.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper before serving.