Dinner: Hoisin-Glazed Pork Chops

Recipe by /contributors/claire-saffitz Why make your own hoisin? Because the addictively sweet-salty condiment will wake up just about everything you’re making this week.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Hoisin-Glazed Pork Chops

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/3 cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
2 tablespoons tahini
2 teaspoons Sriracha
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
2 (1 1/2-inch-thick) bone-in pork rib chops (about 1 pound each), patted dry

Instructions

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium. Cook garlic, stirring often, until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Add soy sauce, honey, vinegar, tahini, and Sriracha and whisk until smooth. Cook, whisking occasionally, until mixture is thick and smooth, about 5 minutes. Season hoisin sauce with salt and pepper; let cool.
Season pork chops all over with salt and pepper. Place in a large resealable plastic bag and add half of hoisin sauce (reserve remaining sauce). Seal bag, pressing out air, and turn to coat pork. Chill at least 30 minutes. Set remaining sauce aside.
Preheat a large skillet, preferably cast iron, or grill pan over medium. Remove pork from bag, shaking off excess marinade. Cook pork chops until bottom side is golden brown, about 1 minute. Turn and cook on other side about 1 minute, then turn again. Continue to cook, turning about every minute, until chops are deep golden brown and charred in spots and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 135 °F, 15 –18 minutes (cooking time will depend on thickness of chops). Transfer to a cutting board and let rest at least 10 minutes (pork will come to 145 °F as it sits). Serve with reserved hoisin sauce spooned over.

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