There’s something irresistibly comforting about the sizzle of pork chops frying in the pan, especially when they are infused with the rich flavors of Taiwanese cuisine. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as you prepare these crispy Taiwanese pork chops, perfect for a bento box meal that the whole family will love. On those busy weeknights, there’s no need to resort to takeout when you can whip up this delightful dish in under 30 minutes, complete with a juicy interior and a crunchy exterior that promises satisfaction in every bite.
After a long day, the last thing you want is a tedious dinner prep. Instead, this recipe offers the perfect balance of ease and flavor, transforming your ordinary dinner routine into something extraordinary. Serving these pork chops alongside warm jasmine rice and a zesty cucumber salad makes for a well-rounded meal that feels just right. So, let’s dive into this delicious culinary adventure, where simple ingredients turn into a comforting feast!
Why You’ll Love These Taiwanese Pork Chops!
Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish—no more waiting for takeout!
Rich, Comforting Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and five-spice powder creates a savory experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Crispy Texture: Each chop achieves a perfect crunch while retaining juiciness inside, reminiscent of your favorite fried foods.
Versatile Dish: Pair these pork chops with jasmine rice and a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal or serve with your favorite dipping sauce!
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone, from kids to adults, will appreciate the satisfying combination of flavors in this dish, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this simple yet delicious recipe!
Taiwanese Pork Chops Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
- Pork Chops – Tender rib chops work best for a juicy bite every time.
- Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Oyster Sauce – Enhances savory flavors; use vegetarian oyster sauce as a swap.
- Minced Garlic – Fresh garlic provides the best aromatic touch for a standout dish.
- Sugar – Balances the savory notes; brown sugar offers a richer flavor profile.
- Five-Spice Powder – Adds a complex aromatic quality; reduce for milder tastes.
- White Pepper – Delivers subtle heat; black pepper can also be used if preferred.
- Whole Egg – Binds the coating to the pork, ensuring delicious crunch.
For the Coating
- Corn Starch – Creates a crispy exterior; potato starch is a great alternative.
- Sweet Potato Flour/Tapioca Starch – Contributes to a light, satisfying crunch; arrowroot starch can be an option too.
These crispy Taiwanese Pork Chops make for an unforgettable bento box meal that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Taiwanese Pork Chops
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Prep the Pork: Begin by scoring the edges of the pork chops to prevent curling during cooking, then gently flatten them with the back of a knife for even tenderness.
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Marinate: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, white pepper, and five-spice powder. Coat the pork chops well with this mixture and let them marinate in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to absorb all those delicious flavors.
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Coat the Pork: After marinating, combine 1 whole egg and corn starch in a separate bowl. Dip the pork chops into the mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated. Then, cover the coated chops with sweet potato flour, letting them sit for about 10 minutes to help the crust adhere properly.
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Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the pork chops, frying each side for 3-4 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Taiwanese Pork Chops
- Fridge: Store cooked Taiwanese pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful for quick reheating.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chops in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring the exterior stays crispy.
- Marinade Storage: If you’re prepping ahead, marinate the pork chops a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Make Ahead Options
These Taiwanese Pork Chops (Bento Box Style!) are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving time on those hectic weeknights! You can marinate the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance to allow those flavors to fully develop—just cover them tightly in the refrigerator. Additionally, once cooked, these pork chops can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain their delightful crispiness, reheat them in a hot pan for a couple of minutes on each side before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy that crave-worthy crunch just like right out of the fryer, making dinner a breeze!
Taiwanese Pork Chops Variations!
Feel free to explore delightful changes that will elevate your Taiwanese pork chops experience!
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Chicken Chops: Swap the pork for chicken breast for a lighter twist while keeping the same marinated flavor. Chicken tends to cook faster, so adjust your frying time accordingly.
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Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick or serve with a side of spicy kimchi for an exciting flavor enhancement. Feel free to adjust the heat level to your liking!
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Herb-Flecked Crust: Mix fresh herbs, such as cilantro or green onions, into the coating to add a burst of freshness. This twist will brighten the dish with every bite.
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Crispy Almonds: Toss some chopped almonds into the coating mixture for added crunch and nutty flavor. Just a handful can make your pork chops feel extra special!
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Vegan Option: Substitute the pork with tofu and use a plant-based egg alternative to bind the coating. These crispy tofu steaks will absorb all the delightful flavors beautifully.
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Coconut Coating: Replace sweet potato flour with desiccated coconut for a tropical twist. This gives a new dimension to the texture and a hint of sweetness you won’t forget.
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Savory Marinade: Instead of using sugar, opt for honey or maple syrup for a subtly sweet yet complex flavor that enhances the savory notes wonderfully.
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Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lime or orange zest to the marinade to brighten up the dish, giving it a fresh aromatic quality that pairs perfectly with the richness of the pork.
What to Serve with Taiwanese Pork Chops?
Indulge in a delightful dining experience that perfectly complements the sizzling flavors of your Taiwanese pork chops.
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Warm Jasmine Rice: Serves as a comforting base, absorbing the delicious juices from the pork chops, enhancing every bite.
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Spicy Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds a crisp contrast with its zesty punch, making the meal vibrant and balanced.
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Pickled Radish: The tangy flavors of pickled radish offer a delightful crunch that brightens up the richness of the pork, invigorating your palate.
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Garlic Soy Sautéed Broccoli: Sautéing broccoli with garlic and soy sauce delivers earthy undertones and adds nutrient-rich goodness to the mix.
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Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: Drizzling this sweet and spicy sauce over the crispy chops envelops your taste buds in an explosion of flavor, taking each bite to the next level.
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Lychee Iced Tea: This refreshing drink pairs beautifully with the pork, balancing the savory sweetness while offering a light, fruity contrast.
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Mango Mousse: For a sweet finish, serve a light mango mousse that cools and cleanses the palate with each spoonful, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Expert Tips for Taiwanese Pork Chops
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Rest Before Frying: Allow the coated pork to rest for 10 minutes to ensure the crust forms properly, preventing the batter from falling off.
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Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches 145°F, making sure your Taiwanese pork chops are perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the pork chops in batches to maintain the oil temperature, allowing for evenly cooked, crispy results without steaming the meat.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh minced garlic and quality soy sauce can significantly enhance the overall flavor of your dish, resulting in a mouthwatering experience.
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Experiment with Coatings: For a unique twist, try adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or swapping out the sweet potato flour for arrowroot starch for a different texture.
Taiwanese Pork Chops (Bento Box Style) Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pork chops?
When selecting pork chops, look for tender cuts like rib chops or loin chops. These cuts tend to have a good balance of fat and meat, ensuring juicy and flavorful results. Avoid any that have dark spots or are discolored, as they may not be fresh.
How should I store leftover Taiwanese pork chops?
Store your cooked Taiwanese pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain that delightful crispiness.
Can I freeze Taiwanese pork chops?
Absolutely! To freeze, first lay the cooked pork chops in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to keep the crust crunchy.
What’s the best way to reheat the pork chops while keeping them crispy?
To reheat your Taiwanese pork chops without sacrificing their crunch, place them in a skillet over medium heat. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. You can also add a touch of oil if needed to revive that crispy exterior.
Can I use a substitute for soy sauce due to allergies?
If you have a soy allergy, you can replace soy sauce with coconut aminos, which provides a similar umami flavor without the soy. It’s a great option for those following gluten-free or soy-free diets as well.
How can I tell when the pork chops are done cooking?
The best way to ensure perfectly cooked pork chops is to use a meat thermometer! Insert it into the thickest part of the chop; it should read 145°F. This ensures they are safe to eat and remain juicy. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain the moisture.
These Taiwanese Pork Chops (Bento Box Style) Recipe FAQs should guide you to a deliciously successful cooking experience!
Savory Taiwanese Pork Chops Bento Box for Quick Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by scoring the edges of the pork chops to prevent curling during cooking, then gently flatten them with the back of a knife for even tenderness.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, white pepper, and five-spice powder. Coat the pork chops well and let them marinate in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.
- Combine 1 whole egg and corn starch in a separate bowl. Dip the pork chops into the mixture, ensuring they're well-coated. Cover the chops with sweet potato flour and let them sit for 10 minutes to help the crust adhere.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.