How to Tenderize Pork Chops

Pork chops are a versatile and delicious protein option, but achieving that perfect tenderness can sometimes be challenging.

Whether you’re planning a hearty family pork dinner or an intimate gathering, this simple guide will walk you through three different ways to tenderize your pork chops. You’ll be rewarded with mouth-watering pork chops that leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Ingredients

Pork chops: I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe because they are the most flavorful after cooking. The bone marrow flows out to the surrounding meat, adding its deliciousness. However, you can use boneless pork chops if you like. You can get pork chops from your local grocery store.

Marinade or tenderizing solution of choice: Buttermilk, citrus-based marinade, or a simple salt brine.

Seasonings and herbs (optional): Use any pork seasoning you choose.

Equipment

You will need a meat mallet or tenderizer tool for mechanical tenderization. You will also need a zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish for marinating. Some plastic wrap or parchment paper will also be useful here.

Steps to Tenderize Pork Chops With a Marinade

1. Select a marinade based on your flavor preferences. Common ingredients include acidic components like citrus juice or vinegar, oil, herbs, spices, and seasonings. You can also use tenderizing acids like yogurt. Consider options such as garlic, soy sauce, honey, or Dijon mustard to add depth to your marinade.
2. Trim excess fat from the pork chops to ensure better marinade absorption. 
3. In a bowl, whisk together your chosen marinade ingredients. Adjust the proportions based on your taste preferences. Ensure a balanced combination of acid, oil, and flavorings for optimal results.
4. Use a zip-top plastic bag or a shallow dish that is large enough to hold the pork chops in a single layer. Placing them flat helps ensure an even coating of the marinade. This also makes turning the chops easier for more thorough marination.
5. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring each chop is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the pork chops to marinate for at least 30 minutes to several hours or overnight for more intense flavor.
6. If marinating for an extended period, turn the pork chops occasionally to ensure all sides absorb the flavors evenly. Additionally, massaging the marinade into the meat with clean hands can enhance the absorption process.
7. Before cooking, remove the pork chops from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes. This helps ensure more even cooking.

Steps to Tenderize Pork Chops with a Meat Mallet

1. Lay out a clean and sturdy work surface, such as a cutting board or a flat countertop. Ensure it provides enough space to work on the pork chops comfortably.
2. Grab a meat mallet or a tenderizer tool. Make sure it is clean and in good condition for effective tenderization.
3. Trim any excess fat from the edges of the pork chops. This helps prevent uneven cooking and allows the meat mallet to contact the meat directly.
4. Lay the pork chops on the work surface, ensuring they are spaced apart. This provides room to maneuver the meat mallet without causing damage to neighboring chops.
5. Place a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper over the pork chops. This creates a barrier between the meat and the meat mallet, preventing the mallet from sticking to the pork and making cleanup easier.
6. With a steady hand, start tenderizing the pork chops using the flat side of the meat mallet. Begin at the center of each chop and work outward. Use a firm, even pressure to flatten and break down the muscle fibers.
7. Flip the pork chops and repeat the tenderizing process on the other side. This ensures that both sides are evenly tenderized.
8. As you tenderize the pork chops with the spiky side of the meat mallet, check for uniform thickness. Aim for an even thickness across the entire pork chop to ensure consistent cooking.

Steps to Tenderize Pork Chops with a Brine

1. Prepare a brine solution in a large bowl or container using hot water, salt, and other desired seasonings. Common additions include sugar, herbs, garlic, and lemon. Ensure the salt is fully dissolved in the water, then allow it to cool to room temperature.
2. Select pork chops suitable for brining. Center-cut chops or bone-in loin chops work well for this method.
3. Place the pork chops in the brine solution, ensuring they are fully submerged. If needed, place a plate or weight on top of the chops to keep them submerged.
4. Cover the container and refrigerate the pork chops in the brine for a designated period. Brining times can vary but generally range from 30 minutes to several hours. For a more intense flavor and tenderness, you can even brine overnight.
5. Remove the pork chops from the brine once the brining time is complete. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess salt on the surface.
6. Use paper towels to pat the pork chops dry. Removing excess moisture on the surface helps achieve a better sear during cooking.
7. Allow the pork chops to rest at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures more even cooking.

Tips for Tenderizing Pork Chops

1. Depending on the end recipe, 1-inch thick pork chop cuts are ideal for preventing the meat from drying out when cooking.
2. Enhance the flavor by adding aromatics like garlic, herbs, and your favorite seasonings to the marinade. This step is an opportunity to infuse the pork chops with additional taste.
3. Be sure to gently pound the pork chops evenly on both sides to avoid uneven cooking. 
4. Allow the chops to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the desired level of tenderness. The acid in the marinade helps to tenderize the meat, so the longer, the better.
5. You may opt for pork known for its tenderness, such as loin chops. These cuts typically have less connective tissue, making them naturally more tender. If you prefer bone-in chops, consider center-cut chops for a good balance of flavor and tenderness.
6. Depending on the cut, you can use any of these methods for steak.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftover marinated pork chops, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Cooked pork chops can be refrigerated for 3 to 4 days or frozen for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions