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Easy Instant Pot Pork Chops Recipe

Pork chops are a versatile and popular meal choice, but achieving tender, flavour-packed meat can sometimes be a challenge. Enter the Instant Pot—a kitchen appliance that has transformed the way we cook by significantly reducing cooking time while locking in moisture and flavour. In this article, we’ll explore an easy recipe for delicious Instant Pot pork chops that even novice cooks can master.

Benefits of Using an Instant Pot

Utilising an Instant Pot for cooking pork chops has several advantages:

1. Speed: The pressure cooking function reduces cooking time drastically, making it possible to serve a comforting meal in a fraction of the time.

2. Moisture Retention: Pressure cooking locks in the juices, resulting in tender and succulent meat.

3. Flavour Infusion: The sealed environment allows for deeper flavours, whether it’s through marination or the addition of spices and broth.

Ingredients

For this simple recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless pork chops (approximately 1 inch thick)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your preferred herbs)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening sauce, optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This not only enhances the flavour but also helps to create a delicious crust when searing.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, place the pork chops in the pot and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavour. Remove the chops and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

With the pork chops set aside, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze and remove any browned bits—this is where much of the flavour lies!

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Stir in the dried thyme, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce (if using). This mixture will create a lovely sauce for the pork chops.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Return the seared pork chops to the Instant Pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chops—6 minutes for thinner chops and 8 minutes for thick ones.

Step 6: Quick Release

Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure by turning the valve to venting. Once the steam has released, remove the lid and check the pork chops for doneness. They should reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).

Step 7: Create a Sauce (Optional)

For a thicker sauce, remove the pork chops once done and set them aside. Turn the Instant Pot back to sauté mode, mix in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, and stir it into the broth. Allow it to simmer until the sauce thickens.

Step 8: Serve

Return the pork chops to the pot to coat them in the sauce, or serve them on a plate drizzled with the sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of colour and flavour.

Serving Suggestions

These Instant Pot pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Cooking pork chops in an Instant Pot is not only easy but also guarantees a delightful and flavourful result. With minimal preparation and just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that the whole family will love. So, dust off that Instant Pot, and give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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