These creole lemongrass pork chops are a Caribbean twist on the delicious Vietnamese dish. They are flavorful and seasoned just right with fresh lemongrass.
Recipe video:
Lemongrass isn’t a stranger to us in the Caribbean. They grow everywhere, in our yards and on the side of streets. Even though it is familiar to us West Indians, I rarely hear about it being used in our cooking. Thankfully, I will show you how to use this delicious herb with these Creole Lemongrass Pork Chops.
Without a doubt, lemongrass is a staple in each Caribbean household. We like to pick the fresh leaves and make tea with them. But we tend to forget about the stems. In addition to the leaves being packed with flavor, the stems are packed with flavor as well.
I came across the stems in an international grocery store and I knew I had to use them. It was new to me but I was very curious about it. Not only was the aroma and taste new to me but it had now become one of the best things. And it will surprise you as well.
How to use Lemongrass?
Earlier I mentioned using lemongrass in tea, well that is one way to use it. At least, that is the only I knew how to use it.
Now, I’ve learned how to use it in my marinades and I am in love.
I only used the stems for the recipe and I pounded the stems before chopping it to release the flavor. Then I chopped the stem finely and I tossed it into the marinade.
Where to find lemongrass?
Clearly not everyone can go into their backyards and just pick a stalk of lemongrass. So I wanted to help you guys out as much as I can so you can make these delicious chops.
You can find lemongrass stems at your local supermarket in the international section. However, if you cannot find it there then you can definitely find some at an international/asian supermarket.
I hope you enjoy the recipe.
Now, let’s get into it.
Creole Lemongrass Pork Chops
Ingredients
Marinade:
- 4 Pork chops
- 2 stalks Fresh lemongrass chopped finely
- 2 medium Garlic cloves minced
- 1 medium Pimento pepper chopped finely
- 1/4 cup Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1 Lime
Sauce:
- Marinade
- 1 tsp Water
- 1/2 tsp Cornstarch
Other ingredients:
- 2 tbsp Olive oil or any other cooking oil
Instructions
Making the marinade:
- In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, chopped lemongrass, lime juice, garlic cloves, black pepper and pimento pepper.
- In a large ziplock bag or a Tupperware, add the pork chops and pour the marinade over them.
- Marinade for 8 hours to overnight. For the best results, I recommend leaving it overnight.
Cooking the pork chops:
- Place a frying pan over medium heat and heat the oil.
- Remove the pork chops from the marinade, set the marinade aside.
- Place frying pan over medium heat, warm the oil and add the chops to the pan. Cook the chops for 8-10 minutes on each side.
- Once the chops are done cooking, remove from the pan and set aside.
Making the sauce:
- In a medium size pot over medium-low heat, pour in the marinade.
- Mix the cornstarch and water together then stir it into the pot.
- Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, being sure to stir constantly.
Other pork recipes you may enjoy:
Caribbean Pigtails & Red Beans Soup
