Are you looking for a flavorful and savory meal that’s sure to please? Look no further than Puerto Rican pork chops! With their rich history and cultural influences, Puerto Rico has developed a unique cuisine that combines Spanish, African, and indigenous flavors. And at the heart of it all is the humble pork chop.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering Puerto Rican pork chop recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From spicy dishes like Bistec Encebollado (Puerto Rican Steak and Onions) to savory options like Chuletas a la Parrilla (Grilled Puerto Rican Pork Chops), there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to impress. So let’s dive in and explore the rich flavors of Puerto Rico!
Bistec Encebollado (Puerto Rican Steak and Onions)
A classic Puerto Rican dish that’s simple to make yet packed with flavor, Bistec Encebollado is a mouthwatering combination of tender steak and caramelized onions. Serve it with rice, beans, or tortillas for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Season the steak with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Sear the steak in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
6. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest.
7. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes to deglaze.
8. Slice the steak against the grain and serve with the caramelized onions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chuletas a la Parrilla (Grilled Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
This classic Puerto Rican dish is a staple at many backyard barbecues and family gatherings. Grilled pork chops are marinated in a mixture of citrus, garlic, and spices, then cooked to perfection for a deliciously flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork chops
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and cumin.
2. Add pork chops to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chuletas Guisadas (Stewed Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
A hearty and flavorful Puerto Rican dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion. This recipe is a staple in many Puerto Rican households, and once you try it, you’ll understand why!
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 1 inch)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the pork chops until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, tomato sauce, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pork chops to the pot and add the potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Chuletas Fritas (Fried Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
These crispy fried pork chops are a beloved Puerto Rican dish that’s sure to please. With a flavorful breading and tender meat, they’re perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each pork chop into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total (depending on thickness of pork chops).
Chuletas con Salsa de Tomate (Pork Chops in Tomato Sauce)
A classic Mexican dish, Chuletas con Salsa de Tomate is a flavorful and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Tender pork chops are smothered in a rich and tangy tomato sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onions. Cook until they’re translucent and starting to caramelize (about 5 minutes).
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
7. Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s thickened slightly.
8. Return the pork chops to the skillet and coat them with the tomato sauce.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chuletas al Ajillo (Garlic Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
A classic Puerto Rican dish, Chuletas al Ajillo is a flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of pork chops with the pungency of garlic. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork chops in a shallow dish and brush the garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chops.
4. Let the chops marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove the chops from the marinade and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake the chops for 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chuletas con Pimientos (Pork Chops with Bell Peppers)
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this classic recipe, combining tender pork chops and sweet bell peppers. A simple yet satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking sheet.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and minced garlic. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Place the skillet with bell peppers on top of the pork chops in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until pork chops reach desired doneness.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chuletas con Cebolla y Ajo (Pork Chops with Onion and Garlic)
This classic Latin American recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the richness of pork chops with the sweetness of caramelized onions and pungency of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops, 1-inch thick
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute.
4. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
5. Place the pork chops on top of the onion mixture in the skillet.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through.
7. Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chuletas con Limón (Lemon-Marinated Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this classic dish, where tender pork chops are marinated in a zesty lemon mixture. A perfect combination of tangy and savory, these chuletas are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add the pork chops to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook pork chops for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chuletas con Adobo (Adobo-Seasoned Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
This classic Puerto Rican dish is a staple of island cuisine, with tender pork chops marinated in a zesty adobo seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, oregano, garlic, brown sugar, and cumin.
2. Add the pork chops to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chuletas con Salsa Criolla (Pork Chops with Creole Sauce)
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic dish, featuring tender pork chops smothered in a rich and spicy Creole sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/2 cup Creole seasoning blend
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup dark roux (or store-bought)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season pork chops with Creole seasoning blend.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion until softened. Add tomato sauce, dark roux, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer sauce over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
6. Serve pork chops smothered in Creole sauce, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chuletas con Piña (Pineapple-Glazed Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
A sweet and savory twist on traditional pork chops, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with the juiciness of pineapple. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh pineapple wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork chops in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the glaze.
4. Let the pork chops marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Bake the pork chops for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with fresh pineapple wedges and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chuletas con Mango (Mango-Marinated Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
Experience the sweet and tangy fusion of flavors with this classic Puerto Rican dish, where tender pork chops are marinated in a mixture of juicy mango and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mango, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and oregano. Blend until smooth.
2. Place pork chops in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chuletas con Cilantro (Cilantro-Lime Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
Savor the flavors of the island with these tender pork chops infused with the brightness of lime and the earthiness of cilantro.
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops (1-1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a small bowl, mix together cilantro, garlic, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Place pork chops in a large skillet and drizzle with olive oil. Cook over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until pork reaches internal temperature of 145°F.
- Remove from the oven and brush with the cilantro-lime mixture. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chuletas con Mojo (Pork Chops with Citrus-Garlic Mojo Sauce)
Experience the vibrant flavors of Cuba with this simple recipe for Chuletas con Mojo, featuring tender pork chops smothered in a zesty citrus-garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and oregano.
4. Grill or pan-fry pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush the mojo sauce over the pork chops during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chuletas con Sofrito (Pork Chops with Puerto Rican Sofrito)
A classic Puerto Rican dish that combines the rich flavors of pork chops with the savory goodness of sofrito, a mixture of onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes. This recipe is a staple in many Puerto Rican households and is sure to become a favorite in yours as well.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup sofrito (see below for recipe)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Sofrito Recipe:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the pork chops to a baking dish and spoon some sofrito over each chop.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and the sofrito is caramelized.
6. Serve hot with additional sofrito, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chuletas con Queso (Cheese-Stuffed Puerto Rican Pork Chops)
Savor the rich flavors of Puerto Rico with this mouthwatering dish, featuring tender pork chops filled with melted cheese and spices. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1/2-inch thick)
– 1 cup shredded Queso Blanco or Monterey Jack
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place pork chops between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Pound each chop to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch.
4. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the pork chops, placing it in the center of each chop.
5. Fold the edges of the pork over the filling, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
7. Transfer the pork chops to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chuletas con Chimichurri (Pork Chops with Puerto Rican Chimichurri)
Discover the flavors of Puerto Rico with this easy and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Place pork chops in a shallow dish and brush with the chimichurri mixture on both sides.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve: With your favorite side dishes, such as rice, beans, or roasted vegetables.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the bold flavors of Puerto Rico! This collection of 18 recipes showcases the island’s love for pork chops. From spicy Bistec Encebollado to sweet and savory Chuletas con Mango, these mouth-watering dishes are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With a range of marinades, sauces, and seasonings, you’ll find the perfect combination to elevate your cooking game. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a special occasion dish, this assortment of Puerto Rican pork chop recipes has something for everyone.
