Description
This flavorful pork rub combines a blend of smoked paprika, herbs, and spices to create a mouthwatering seasoning for pork chops. Perfectly paired with a simple olive oil and butter sauce, this recipe enhances the natural taste of the pork while adding a delightful smoky and savory twist. With easy prep and a short cook time, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner option that delivers big on taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Spice Rub
- 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
Pork and Cooking Ingredients
- 4 pork chops, any type (approx. 220g/7oz each, 2cm / 0.8″ thick)
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil (per batch cooked)
- 50g / 4 tbsp unsalted butter (for flavored butter sauce, approx. 15g/1 tbsp per chop)
Instructions
- Make the Rub: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, mustard powder, cumin powder, and sage powder. Store this spice blend in an airtight container; it retains its flavor for weeks or even months, depending on the freshness of the spices used.
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Sprinkle the pork rub evenly over both sides and the edges of each chop. Use your fingers to gently rub the seasoning into the meat, then shake off any excess rub to prevent burning during cooking.
- Cook the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops, cooking for about 6 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning the spices.
- Finish with Flavored Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to low, add unsalted butter to the skillet. Allow it to melt and mingle with the cooking juices to create a flavorful sauce. Spoon this butter sauce over the pork chops several times to infuse them with richness before removing from heat. Let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use cooking or kosher salt as it provides better flavor and texture for the rub compared to fine table salt.
- The pork chops pictured are pork cutlets weighing about 220g each with a thickness of approximately 2cm (0.8 inches).
- The pork rub mixture keeps well when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
- Cooking times may vary based on chop thickness and cooking equipment; always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
