Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Chops

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 2–3 cm thick)
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for balance)

Method

1. Season the pork chops
   • Pat the pork chops dry.
   • Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear the chops
   • Heat oil or butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
   • Cook pork chops for about 3–4 minutes per side until browned.
   • Remove temporarily from the pan.
3. Make the glaze
   • Lower the heat.
   • Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
   • Stir in brown sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar/lemon juice.
   • Let the mixture simmer until it becomes glossy.
4. Finish cooking
   • Return pork chops to the pan.
   • Spoon the glaze over them and cook until the pork reaches 63°C internal temperature, followed by a short rest before serving.

Serving Ideas

Great with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted carrots or green beans
• Steamed rice
• A crisp salad

Tips for Juicy Pork Chops

• Don’t overcook them—pork can become dry if cooked too long.
• Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Bone-in chops often stay more tender and flavourful.

For extra flavour, you can add a pinch of chilli flakes or a little Dijon mustard to the glaze for a sweet-and-tangy finish.