There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that warms both heart and home. Enter my Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Chops—an exquisite creation that embodies the essence of comfort food. Picture tender, juicy pork perfectly simmered in a luscious sauce bursting with sweet scallions. As the savory aromas waft through your kitchen, you’ll know you’ve stumbled upon a recipe that’s destined to become a beloved staple.
I discovered this gem while searching for an alternative to my usual weeknight dinners, needing something special yet easy enough to whip up in an hour. With its rich flavors and simple techniques, this dish has become my go-to for family dinners and casual gatherings alike. The interplay of succulent meat and aromatic ingredients creates a symphony of taste, making each bite a moment to savor.
So, grab your apron! Let’s transform those ordinary evenings into extraordinary culinary experiences with these Braised Pork Chops, Shanghai-style. Your taste buds are in for a delightful adventure!
Why Will You Love Braised Pork Chops?
Bold, Flavorful Twist: The Shanghai-style seasoning infuses the pork with a distinctively sweet and savory flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Tender & Juicy: These pork chops are marinated and braised to perfection, ensuring each bite is juicy and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners without compromising on flavor or quality.
- Satisfying Comfort Food: The combination of the meaty chops with sweet scallions creates the ultimate comfort dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it up with a glossy sauce for an elegant dish that impresses at any gathering.
- Serve with Rice: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, allowing you and your loved ones to savor every bit of the rich sauce.
For variations, consider experimenting with seasonal vegetables to add even more flavor and nutrition to your meal.
Braised Pork Chops Ingredients
For the Pork
- Boneless Center Cut Pork Chops – Look for thick, well-marbled cuts for maximum juiciness and tenderness.
- Shaoxing Wine – Adds depth and a hint of sweetness; dry sherry can be a suitable alternative.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; kosher salt works best for even seasoning.
- Light Soy Sauce – Imparts umami and color; low-sodium soy sauce can be used as a healthier substitute.
- Water – Adds moisture to the marinade and braising liquid; adjust based on stove settings.
- Eggs – Binds the marinade to the pork, ensuring a flavorful coating.
- Cornstarch – Helps create a crispy exterior when frying and thickens the sauce for a perfect consistency.
For the Sauce
- Rock Sugar – Sweetens the dish; you can use granulated sugar if needed.
- Dark Soy Sauce – Adds extra flavor depth and a beautiful color to the braise.
For the Aromatics
- Scallions – Provides a mild onion flavor and sweetness; using more enhances the richness of the dish.
- Neutral Oil (Vegetable, Canola or Avocado) – Ideal for shallow frying the pork; avoid oils with strong flavors to let the pork shine.
How to Make Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Chops
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Prepare Pork Chops: Cut slits on the fat edge to prevent curling, then pound the chops to a thickness of ¼ to ½ inch for extra tenderness and even cooking.
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Marinate: In a bowl, combine the pork chops with Shaoxing wine, salt, light soy sauce, and water. After adding eggs and cornstarch, marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavor.
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Prepare Scallions: Wash and dry the scallions thoroughly. If they’re thick, cut them in halves lengthwise to allow for better cooking and flavor absorption.
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Shallow Fry: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the pork chops for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side until they’re golden brown, then set aside.
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Cook Scallions: In the same oil, sauté the scallions until they’re wilted and slightly browned, releasing their lovely sweetness into the oil.
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Braise Pork: Place the browned pork chops atop the scallions. Add the rock sugar and dark soy sauce, cover, and let it simmer for 3 minutes. Flip the pork, make sure it’s submerged in the sauce, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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Thicken Sauce: Remove the lid, increase the heat to high, and stir well for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce reaches a glossy, thicker consistency.
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Serve: Plate the pork chops along with the scallions, then pour that luscious sauce over the top. Enjoy with a side of steamed rice to soak it all up!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped scallions for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Braised Pork Chops Variations
Customize your Shanghai-style braised pork chops with these delightful twists that will elevate your dish even further!
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Bone-In Chops: Opt for bone-in pork chops for richer flavor and an extra juicy bite, giving a rustic feel to your meal.
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Vegetable Medley: Include bok choy or bell peppers alongside scallions for added color and nutrition, turning your dish into a vibrant feast.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced fresh chilies or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the marinade for a zingy, spicy twist that will awaken your taste buds.
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Herb Infusion: Throw in some fresh ginger or garlic while sautéing the scallions for an aromatic depth that complements the dish beautifully.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate a splash of orange or lemon juice in the final sauce for a refreshing tang that brightens the overall flavor.
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Mushroom Addition: Add shiitake or enoki mushrooms during the braising process, allowing them to soak up all the delicious sauce for a rich, umami experience.
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Maple Sweetness: Substitute rock sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist, lending a subtle hint of caramel flavor to the dish.
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Rice Variations: Pair with coconut rice instead of plain steamed rice for an exotic complement that enhances the dish’s flavors and makes every bite special.
Make Ahead Options
These Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Chops are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to deepen, making them even more delicious. Simply combine the pork with Shaoxing wine, salt, light soy sauce, water, eggs, and cornstarch, and refrigerate. You can also wash and slice the scallions ahead of time; just store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, shallow fry the pork and sauté the scallions, then braise everything according to the recipe. This way, you’ll have a warm, comforting dinner ready in no time, with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Braised Pork Chops
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Perfect Temperature: Ensure the oil is shimmering hot before frying the pork chops to achieve that coveted crispy exterior and juicy interior. A too-cool oil can lead to tough meat.
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Marination Magic: Take your time with marinating; don’t rush it! Allow the pork chops to soak in flavor for at least 15 minutes for the best taste experience.
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Scallion Prep: If your scallions are thick, cut them in half lengthwise. This simple trick enhances their sweetness and allows them to better absorb the rich flavors of the braise.
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Serve Fresh: To maintain the delightful texture and taste, serve your braised pork chops immediately. Reheating may alter the sauce’s consistency, so enjoy it fresh!
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Adjusting Sweetness: Personalize your dish by adjusting the amount of rock sugar in the braise. Experimenting with sweetness can create a flavor balance that suits your palate.
What to Serve with Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Chops?
Create a delightful dining experience around your savory dish! These simple pairings will elevate your meal and tantalize your taste buds.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the rich sauce, perfectly balancing the dish’s bold flavors.
- Garlic Bok Choy: Crisp and fresh, these bright greens add a crunchy contrast to the tender pork and enrich your plate with nutrients.
- Braised Peppers: Gently cooked and slightly caramelized, they provide sweetness that complements the savory profile of the pork.
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, a tangy cucumber salad can cleanse your palate, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- Pickled Vegetables: Their tartness cuts through the richness of the pork, adding a delightful zing that surprises and delights your taste buds.
- Chrysanthemum Tea: Smooth and fragrant, this herbal tea brings a calming element to your meal, making it a soothing pairing with the savory pork.
- Sesame Noodles: The nutty flavors and chewy texture of sesame noodles provide a delightful contrast, creating a comforting, satisfying side dish.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet Thai treat offers a luscious finish, combining textures and flavors that beautifully round off your meal.
These pairings deserve a spot on your table as you indulge in the flavors of Shanghai!
How to Store and Freeze Braised Pork Chops
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help retain the flavor and moisture of your braised pork chops while keeping them safe to eat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the braised pork chops in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Ensure all air is removed for optimal freshness.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to the sauce if needed to maintain moisture and avoid drying out the pork.
Seal Well: Make sure to seal your containers or bags tightly to prevent freezer burn and keep those delicious flavors intact!
Braised Pork Chops Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pork chops?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for boneless center-cut pork chops that are thick and well-marbled. These will provide maximum juiciness and tenderness, making your Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Chops not just good, but truly unforgettable!
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed well to maintain moisture and flavor. When storing, let the pork cool before refrigerating to avoid condensation and sogginess.
Can I freeze braised pork chops?
Very much so! To freeze your braised pork chops, place them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
What if my pork chops don’t turn out tender?
Ah, that can be a bit frustrating! If your pork chops turn out tough, it could be due to overcooking or using chops that are too lean. To avoid this, ensure your oil is hot enough when frying, and don’t skip marinating the chops. If you’re concerned they’re not tender enough, you can try simmering them for a few more minutes while ensuring they’re submerged in sauce.
Are there any allergens in this recipe?
Great question! This recipe contains soy sauce, which has gluten, and eggs, which can be an allergen for some. If you have dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free soy sauce or another marinade option. Always check ingredient labels if you’re catering to specific allergies, especially if you’re preparing this dish for others!
Savory Braised Pork Chops, Shanghai-Style for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut slits on the fat edge of the pork chops to prevent curling and pound to ¼ to ½ inch thickness.
- In a bowl, combine pork chops with Shaoxing wine, salt, light soy sauce, and water. Add eggs and cornstarch, marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Wash and dry scallions thoroughly. If thick, cut them in halves lengthwise.
- Heat oil in a wok until shimmering. Fry pork chops for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side until golden brown.
- In the same oil, sauté scallions until wilted and browned, releasing their sweetness.
- Place browned pork chops atop scallions, add rock sugar and dark soy sauce, cover and simmer for 3 minutes. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes more.
- Remove lid, increase heat to high, and stir for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Plate pork chops with scallions and pour sauce over. Serve with rice.