Baked Pork Chops

Honey Garlic Glazed Baked Pork Chops

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Serves: 2–4
Calories: ~400 per chop (without sides)

🛒 Ingredients:

For the pork chops:

•  4 thick-cut pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste).
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil for searing.

For the glaze:

• ¼ cup honey
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp ketchup or BBQ sauce (optional, but this gives a deep red glaze).
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tsp paprika (for colour and mild heat).
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

🔪 Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).

Make the glaze:

1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup/BBQ sauce, minced garlic, vinegar, paprika and pepper.
   Bring to a simmer over a low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened slightly (3–4 minutes). Set aside.
2. Sear the pork chops (optional, but adds flavour).
   Pat the pork chops dry. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
   Heat the olive oil in a frying pan and sear the chops for two minutes on each side until browned.

Bake with glaze:

1. Place the pork chops in a baking dish or on a baking tray. Brush generously with glaze on both sides.
   Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through and brushing with more glaze.
2. For an optional finishing touch, broil for 3–5 minutes.
   In the last 3–5 minutes, broil on a high heat to slightly caramelise the glaze (watch carefully to avoid burning).

Rest and serve:

1. Let the chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain the juices.

🍽 Serve with:

• Roasted potatoes: Toss halved potatoes in olive oil, salt, pepper and paprika, then roast at 200°C for 35–40 minutes.
• Steamed peas: Boil or steam for 2–3 minutes and then toss with butter and a pinch of salt.

Enjoy