How to Tenderize Pork Chops

A tenderized pork chop will be more pleasant to eat.

Pork chops aren't what they used to be. In response to consumers' increased interest in healthier eating, pork is raised to be about 30 percent leaner than it was a few decades ago. While this decrease in fat may be good news for the waistline, it can lead to meat that is less flavorful and less tender. No one wants tough pork chops, but luckily they can be tenderized and still remain healthful and delicious.

Instructions

1. Flatten the pork chop slightly by pounding it with a tenderizing mallet. Other blunt objects, such as a heavy pan or rolling pin, will also work. Flattening helps break down the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender.

2. Marinade the pork chops. Let the chops sit for about an hour in a marinade that contains tenderizing ingredients, such as citrus juice, vinegar or yogurt.

3. Cook the pork chops for the correct amount of time. Overcooked pork chops will become extremely dry and lose their tenderness.

Tips & Warnings

• Marinating the pork chops too long can make the meat mushy.

References

• O Chef: How To Tenderize Meat
• The Meat Source: How To Cook Pork Chops
• "Ventura County Star"; Tenderize Pork Chops; 2003
• Fine Cooking; Marinades Add Flavor But Don't Always Tenderize; Shirley Corriher
• The Meat Source: Sirloin Pork Chops