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There’s a comforting allure to the sizzle of pork chops frying in a pan, and when it comes to Taiwanese Pork Chops, that sound is an anthem of culinary delight. I stumbled upon this recipe during a quiet Sunday afternoon, craving a homemade meal that could whisk me away to Taiwan’s bustling street food scene. These pork chops, with their crispy coating and tender, juicy center, are not only a culinary treat but also incredibly easy to whip up—perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but long on appetite.

Imagine plating these golden beauties beside a mound of warm rice and a refreshing spicy cucumber salad; each bite sends you on a savory adventure, transporting you straight into the heart of Taiwan’s rich food culture. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting meal or just need a break from fast food, these Taiwanese Pork Chops promise a delicious escape that’s as simple as it is satisfying. Ready to dive into this flavor-packed experience? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are Taiwanese Pork Chops a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze, taking minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor.
Mouthwatering Flavor: The harmonious blend of soy sauce, five-spice powder, and garlic creates a taste sensation that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
Crispy Texture: The combination of sweet potato flour and corn starch gives these chops an impressively crunchy exterior, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Versatile Pairing: Serve them with warm rice and a zesty cucumber salad for a complete, restaurant-quality bento-style meal at home.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Family and friends will adore this dish—perfect for dinner parties or any night when you’re craving something special.
For an extra easy meal solution, consider trying other simple recipes from your favorite comfort food collection!

Taiwanese Pork Chops Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Pork Chops – The star of the dish; choose bone-in for more flavor or boneless for ease.
• Soy Sauce – Adds depth and umami; low-sodium options can balance the saltiness.
• Oyster Sauce – Enriches the flavor profile; feel free to leave it out for a vegetarian version.
• Minced Garlic – Fresh minced garlic provides intense flavor; use more if you’re a garlic lover!
• Sugar – Balances the savory with sweetness; brown sugar can deepen the taste.
• Five-Spice Powder – Essential for authentic flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic mix.
• White Pepper – Adds a subtle heat; black pepper can be a milder alternative.

For the Coating
• Whole Egg – Helps the coating stick; a flax egg can be used as a substitute if needed.
• Corn Starch – Ensures the chops get that irresistible crunch; potato starch works too.
• Sweet Potato Flour/Tapioca Starch – Gives a unique crisp texture; other flours may alter the final crunch.

Dive into this comforting dish and savor the rich flavors that make Taiwanese Pork Chops an irresistible dinner option!

How to Make Taiwanese Pork Chops

Prep the Pork: Cut through the fat edge of each pork chop to prevent curling, then gently flatten them with the back of a knife for even cooking. The pork should lie flat and be about ½ inch thick.
Marinate: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, white pepper, and five-spice powder. Marinate the pork chops in this mixture, covering them completely, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to soak up those delicious flavors.
Coat: In a separate bowl, beat a whole egg and mix in corn starch. Then, coat each marinated chop in the mixture before generously dusting with sweet potato flour, making sure they are fully covered. Allow them to rest for 10 minutes to let the batter adhere.
Fry: Heat a generous amount of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and fully cooked through. They should be crispy and have an internal temperature of 145°F for juicy perfection.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Taiwanese Pork Chops Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own; the possibilities are endless!

Chicken Swap: Use chicken thighs or breasts in place of pork for a leaner option that still maintains flavor.
Tofu Delight: Substitute firm tofu for a vegetarian twist; marinate and slice it for the same savory taste.
Spicy Kick: Add minced fresh ginger or chili flakes to the marinade for an exciting heat that warms the palate.
Herb Blend: Introduce fresh herbs like basil or cilantro after frying for a aromatic flavor boost and a pop of color.
Coconut Crunch: Substitute half the corn starch with shredded coconut for a sweet, tropical twist on texture.
Pineapple Glaze: Top with a quick pineapple glaze for a sweet-tangy contrast—mix pineapple juice with soy sauce and simmer before drizzling.
Vegan Version: Use aquafaba (chickpea water) instead of egg and chickpea flour for a plant-based crispy coating.
Asian Flare: Infuse sesame oil or rice vinegar into the marinade to deepen the umami flavor for a more authentic Asian taste.

Each variation brings a unique flavor and texture, ensuring a delightful experience every time!

Expert Tips for Taiwanese Pork Chops

Rest the Coating: Allow the coated pork to sit for at least 5 minutes before frying, ensuring a firm grip on that crunchy texture.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 145°F, preventing overcooking and keeping the pork juicy.
Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and make your Taiwanese Pork Chops soggy instead of crispy.
Oil Selection: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil, to achieve the best frying results.
Customize Your Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of five-spice powder based on your spice tolerance; more creates deeper flavor complexity.
Air Fry for Health: For a lighter version, try air frying these pork chops—just watch the cooking time closely!

Make Ahead Options

These Taiwanese Pork Chops are a meal prep superstar! You can marinate the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor; just ensure they are sealed tightly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can coat them with the batter and refrigerate them for about up to 3 hours before frying, keeping the coating crispy. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil and fry the chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy and golden. This prep practice saves you valuable time on busy weeknights while ensuring your Taiwanese Pork Chops retain their delicious flavor and texture!

What to Serve with Taiwanese Pork Chops?

Add a delightful touch to your meal with the perfect accompaniments for your crispy, juicy pork chops.

Warm Steamed Rice: The soft, fluffy rice acts as a wonderful base, soaking up flavors and balancing the savory taste of the pork.
Spicy Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds a zingy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the crispy pork, creating a burst of vibrant flavor.
Pickled Vegetables: Tangy, crunchy pickles elevate the meal, adding zesty notes that enhance the richness of the pork.
Garlic Green Beans: Quickly sautéed green beans offer a healthy, savory side, adding a vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the meal perfectly with umami-rich flavors, making it feel truly authentic.
Chilled Tofu with Soy Sauce: This silky dish provides a creamy contrast to the crispy pork, while its light flavor keeps the meal balanced.
Taiwanese Pineapple Cake: For dessert, this sweet treat perfectly rounds out the meal, balancing the flavors with its fruity sweetness.

Each of these pairings enhances the unforgettable flavor experience of Taiwanese Pork Chops, creating a memorable meal that your family will love.

How to Store and Freeze Taiwanese Pork Chops

Fridge: Store cooked Taiwanese Pork Chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to preserve texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork chops in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy and juicy. Avoid microwave reheating to maintain the delightful crunch.

Room Temperature: If serving for a meal, allow the pork chops to sit at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain optimal taste.

Taiwanese Pork Chops Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pork chops for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing pork chops, look for cuts that are bright pink with a small amount of marbling—the fat adds flavor and juiciness. Bone-in chops can enhance flavor, while boneless chops offer convenience. Aim for chops that are about 1 inch thick for the best cooking results.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your delicious Taiwanese Pork Chops, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the pork chops cool completely before sealing. This keeps the moisture in!

Can I freeze Taiwanese Pork Chops? If so, how?
Very! For freezing, lay the cooked pork chops in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Remember to label your bags with the date!

What should I do if my pork chops don’t turn out crispy?
If your pork chops fall flat on the crispiness scale, it could be due to overcrowding the pan or not allowing the coating to rest. Be sure to fry in batches and let the coating sit for at least 5 minutes before frying to help achieve that desired crunch.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Indeed! For those with soy allergies, using coconut aminos can be a great substitute for soy sauce, and keep in mind that the oyster sauce can be omitted entirely for a vegetarian version. Always check packaging for allergens to ensure the meal is safe for everyone, including your furry friends!

How long should I reheat previously cooked pork chops?
Reheat your pork chops gently in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes on each side or until heated through. This method helps retain their crispy texture; microwaving is likely to make them soggy. Enjoy that crispy goodness!