Amazing Pork Rub for Unforgettable Flavors
Just a Great Pork Rub
Introduction
If you love cooking pork, then a great pork rub is a must-have in your kitchen. This simple yet flavorful recipe enhances the taste of any pork dish. It’s perfect for highlighting the natural flavors of pork while providing a delightful kick. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward, making it a go-to recipe for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own pork rub at home gives you complete control over the flavors. Using a blend of spices, you can adjust the taste to suit your preference. Homemade rubs also avoid preservatives and additives found in store-bought versions. Plus, this rub keeps for weeks or even months, so you can always have it on hand for a quick flavor boost. Impress your family and friends with juicy, seasoned pork that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare!
How to Make Just a Great Pork Rub
Creating this spice blend is quick and simple. Just combine the ingredients in a bowl, and you have your pork rub ready to go!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 1/4 tsp salt (cooking/kosher salt)
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 3/4 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp sage powder
- 4 pork chops, any type (about 220g/7oz each, 2cm / 0.8" thick)
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil (per batch you cook)
- 50g / 4 tbsp unsalted butter (for flavored butter sauce, about 15g / 1 tbsp per chop)
Directions:
-
Rub: Mix all the spices in a small bowl. You can store this spice mix for weeks or even months, depending on the shelf life of the spices you used.
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Using Pork Rub: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the rub generously on both sides of the chops, using your fingers to rub the seasoning in well. Shake off any excess.
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Cooking Thin Pork Chops (up to 1.75 cm / 0.7" thick):
- Place a rack over a tray.
- Heat oil in a heavy-based skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the pork chops for 3 minutes on each side until they are deep golden. Avoid overcrowding the pan; otherwise, the pork will steam instead of sear!
- Let the pork rest on the rack for 3 minutes.
- Melt butter in the skillet, stirring to dissolve the rub left in the pan into the butter, and serve this sauce over the cooked pork.
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Cooking Thick Pork Chops (2cm / 0.8" or thicker):
- Preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F (or 180°C fan).
- Place a rack over a tray.
- Sear the edges of the chops in the skillet, rotating until they are nicely colored, about 3 minutes. Then, sear each side for 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Place the pan in the oven to finish cooking for 3 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 65°C/149°F. Remove and rest for 3 minutes on the rack.
- Melt butter in the skillet again, stir in the rub, and serve over the pork.
How to Serve Just a Great Pork Rub
Serve your seasoned pork chops hot, drizzled with the buttery sauce for added flavor. Pair them with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation with family and friends!
How to Store Just a Great Pork Rub
Store the pork rub mixture in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can last for several weeks or even months. Leftover cooked pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Tips to Make Just a Great Pork Rub
- Adjust the amount of salt based on your taste preference or dietary needs.
- Feel free to experiment with other spices like chili powder or brown sugar for variations.
- Ensure the pork chops are dry before applying the rub for better flavor absorption.
Variations
You can customize the pork rub by adding other spices such as cayenne pepper for extra heat or brown sugar for a hint of sweetness. Feel free to mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use this rub on other meats?
Yes! This rub is versatile and can be used on chicken, beef, or fish for added flavor.
2. How long can I store the leftover pork rub?
The pork rub can be safely stored for several weeks or months in a sealed container.
3. What is the best way to apply the rub?
Pat the meat dry first, then sprinkle the rub and massage it into the meat for maximum flavor.
With this simple and delicious pork rub, you’re ready to elevate your pork dishes. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and impressing your dinner guests!
Just a Great Pork Rub
Ingredients
Pork Rub Ingredients
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 1/4 tsp salt (cooking/kosher salt) Adjust based on taste preference.
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 3/4 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp sage powder
Pork and Cooking Ingredients
- 4 pieces pork chops (about 220g/7oz each, 2cm/0.8" thick) Can vary in thickness.
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil Per batch you cook.
- 50 g unsalted butter For flavored butter sauce (about 15g/1 tbsp per chop).
Instructions
Rub Preparation
- Mix all the spices in a small bowl. Store this spice mix for weeks or even months.
Using the Pork Rub
- Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel.
- Sprinkle the rub generously on both sides of the chops, using your fingers to rub the seasoning in well. Shake off any excess.
Cooking Thin Pork Chops
- Place a rack over a tray.
- Heat oil in a heavy-based skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the pork chops for 3 minutes on each side until they are deep golden.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; otherwise, the pork will steam instead of sear!
- Let the pork rest on the rack for 3 minutes.
- Melt butter in the skillet, stirring to dissolve the rub left in the pan into the butter, and serve this sauce over the cooked pork.
Cooking Thick Pork Chops
- Preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F (or 180°C fan).
- Place a rack over a tray.
- Sear the edges of the chops in the skillet, rotating until they are nicely colored, about 3 minutes.
- Then, sear each side for 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Place the pan in the oven to finish cooking for 3 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 65°C/149°F.
- Remove and rest for 3 minutes on the rack.
- Melt butter in the skillet again, stir in the rub, and serve over the pork.
