Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Asian Pork Chop Recipe
When you try this Instant Pot Asian Pork Chop recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen. The tender, juicy pork chops soak up the rich, savory flavors, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
I love how easy it’s to whip up in just one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Plus, the balance of sweet, spicy, and umami elements makes every bite a delight.
Whether I’m serving it for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this recipe never disappoints. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Instant Pot Asian Pork Chop
When it comes to whipping up something delicious in the kitchen, the right ingredients can make all the difference. For this Instant Pot Asian Pork Chop recipe, you’ll want to gather a few flavorful staples that transform simple pork chops into a mouthwatering meal.
As you gather your ingredients, just imagine the aroma filling your home. You know that feeling when you’re about to cook something special? Yeah, that’s what we’re going for here!
Here’s what you’ll need to make the magic happen:
- 2 thick pork chops
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
Now, let’s talk a bit about these ingredients. First off, you don’t have to stress about finding the perfect pork chops. Just grab some thick ones; they’ll stay juicy and tender during cooking.
And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap out the honey for maple syrup for a unique twist. The balance of sweet from the honey and spicy from the sriracha creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Plus, using low sodium soy sauce helps keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor. So, whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a gathering, these ingredients will work together to create a dish that’s sure to impress.
How to Make Instant Pot Asian Pork Chop
Now let’s explore making those delightful Instant Pot Asian Pork Chops. First off, grab your Instant Pot and set it to the “Sauté” mode. Once it’s hot—like, not “I just went for a jog” hot, but a nice cooking temperature—add in 2 teaspoons of olive oil. We’re talking about that golden liquid goodness that helps get those pork chops all crispy and flavorful.
Speaking of pork chops, you’ll want to place your 2 thick pork chops in the pot. Brown them on both sides. It really isn’t rocket science—just a couple of minutes on each side until they’ve a nice golden color. This step is essential because who doesn’t love a good sear?
After your pork chops look like they belong on a magazine cover, it’s time to bring the flavor. Pour in 1/4 cup of low sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey (the sweet stuff that makes everything better), and toss in 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of minced ginger, 2 teaspoons of sriracha sauce, and just a pinch of black pepper.
Oh, and don’t forget that 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce. Mix it all together, letting those ingredients mingle like old friends. Once you’ve got everything combined nicely, close the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook on “Manual” for 12 minutes.
While you wait, why not take a moment to daydream about how good this meal is going to be?
When the time’s up, let the Instant Pot do its thing with a natural pressure release. This means you can just sit back, relax, and maybe even do a little happy dance while you wait for the pressure to drop.
Once the lid comes off, you’ll be greeted with the most mouthwatering aroma, and your pork chops will be tender and bursting with flavor. Serve them up with a side of rice or steamed veggies, and there you have it—a fabulous meal that’s not just easy to make but also impressively delicious.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Instant Pot Asian Pork Chop Substitutions & Variations
Although the traditional Instant Pot Asian Pork Chop recipe is delicious as is, there’s plenty of room to get creative with substitutions and variations.
For instance, you can swap pork chops for chicken thighs or tofu for a vegetarian option. Instead of soy sauce, try tamari for a gluten-free version. If you want a sweeter flavor, maple syrup works great in place of honey.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition. You can also adjust the heat by using less sriracha or adding more for a spicier kick.
Experimenting can lead to delightful new flavors!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Asian Pork Chop
Pairing your Instant Pot Asian Pork Chop with the right sides can elevate the meal to a whole new level.
I love serving it with fluffy jasmine rice, which absorbs all those delicious flavors.
Steamed broccoli or bok choy adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color. You can also whip up a simple cucumber salad for a revitalizing contrast.
For a heartier option, consider some stir-fried noodles tossed in soy sauce and sesame oil.
Each of these sides complements the savory and sweet notes of the pork chop, making for a truly satisfying meal that I can’t get enough of!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Instant Pot Asian Pork Chop turns out perfectly, I recommend using thicker pork chops, as they hold up better during cooking and remain juicy.
Don’t skip the natural pressure release; it helps the flavors meld together beautifully. If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding some sesame seeds or green onions as a garnish right before serving.
For an extra kick, feel free to adjust the sriracha to your taste. Finally, if you’re short on time, you can marinate the pork chops in the sauce for a few hours beforehand for even more flavor.
Enjoy!