Traditional Cuban Pork Chops

 

Cuban-Style Pork Chops

These pork chops are a classic on the Cuban table. Marinated with sour orange, garlic, and onion, then fried in pork lard to achieve golden and juicy meat, they’re perfect for any family meal.

🍖 Ingredients needed:

  • 3 pork chops
  • 1 large onion
  • 5 garlic cloves
  • 1 pinch of ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 sour orange (its juice)
  • 2 tablespoons of pork lard

 

 

🔪 Prepare the marinade:

Slice the onion into half-moons and crush the garlic cloves in a mortar with the salt. Add the pinch of black pepper and sour orange juice, mix well, and incorporate the onion.

🥩 Marinate the chops:

Make small cuts along the edges of each pork chop to prevent curling while frying. Gently pound them with a mallet to tenderize. Place them in a deep container, pour the marinade over, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

🔥 Cook and brown:

After marinating, remove the chops and shake off excess garlic and onion. Heat the pork lard in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chops without crowding, browning one side first, then the other.

🍳 Finish the recipe:

Once well browned, add the marinade and onions to the skillet. Cook a few more minutes uncovered so the onion caramelizes and the meat stays juicy. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

ℹ️ Useful information:

  • Servings: 3
  • Preparation time: 45 minutes (includes marinating)
  • Cooking time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Meats
  • Cuisine: Cuban

💡 Chef’s Tip:

To give this dish a special twist, serve these pork chops with congrí and some crispy fried plantains. Guaranteed success!


Dare to make them? Tell me how yours turned out and share your secrets in the comments. Your experience enriches our tradition!

🏷️ Tags: pork chops, Cuban recipes, Creole cooking, fried pork, traditional Cuban dishes, homemade recipes

For the Spanish recipe, visit: Chuletas de Cerdo Fritas al Estilo Cubano.