7 up Marinated Pork Chop

7 up Marinated Pork Chop is one of those dishes my siblings and I would always have when we were growing up. My mom would always buy pork chops every time she goes to the market.  Her favorite way of cooking it is by frying it. She would marinate it first with 7-up, calamansi (calamondin) and soy sauce overnight. I have tried different pork chop recipes but I still love my mom’s recipe.  Sometimes I would substitute the 7-up with ginger ale and I also use lemon instead of calamansi because lemons are more easily accessible. Additionally, I coat the pork chops with tapioca starch or flour before frying it. I like to make mango salsa as well because it goes great with the fried pork chops.   The 7-up mixture and the fact that it is marinated overnight makes the pork chops so tender and tasty. Every time I make these there are never any leftovers. It is and will always be our family’s all time favorite dish.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops

To achieve the best flavor and tenderness, marinate your pork chops for at least eight hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors from the 7-up and soy sauce to really penetrate the meat. When frying, make sure your oil is hot enough. If the oil is too cold, the chops will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy. A good test is to drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. Flip the chops only once during cooking to ensure they get a nice golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; pork is safe to eat at 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Rest the chops for a few minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute, which keeps them juicy and flavorful. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some minced garlic or fresh herbs to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These 7-up marinated pork chops pair beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple garden salad or coleslaw can complement the richness of the pork. If you prefer something heartier, mashed potatoes or rice are excellent choices. The mango salsa you mentioned adds a fresh and zesty touch that balances the savory flavors of the meat. For a bit of crunch, consider serving the chops with roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots. If you want to take it up a notch, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top can elevate the dish. For drinks, a light, fruity white wine or even a sweet iced tea can work well. This dish is versatile, so feel free to mix and match based on what you enjoy or have on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of 7-up?

Ginger ale works really well as a substitute. It provides a similar sweetness and helps tenderize the pork just like 7-up.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently in the oven or on the stovetop to keep them crispy.

Can I marinate the pork chops for less time?

While marinating for at least eight hours is best, you can marinate them for a minimum of two hours if you’re short on time. Just keep in mind that the flavor and tenderness may not be as rich.

What do I serve with these pork chops?

Mango salsa is a fantastic choice, but you could also pair them with rice, a fresh salad, or even some grilled veggies for a complete meal.

What are common mistakes to avoid when frying pork chops?

Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chops to avoid greasy results. Also, resist the urge to flip them multiple times; flipping once allows for that nice golden crust.

Fried Pork Chop

Liza Agbanlog

Crispy fried pork chops marinated in lemon and soy sauce create a tasty, savory treat. Topped with fresh mango salsa, they’re bursting with flavor and texture.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Filipino

Servings 4 pork chops

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 4 pieces pork chops
• Juice of half a lemon
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 can 7-up or ginger ale
• Tapioca starch or flour
• oil for frying

Mango Salsa (optional)

• 1 tomato diced
• 1/3 cup diced mango
• 1 tbsp diced red onion
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ¼ tsp salt

Instructions

 

• Prepare the chops by making two midway slits on each piece (this process will ensure even cooking when frying). Click here to see how it's done. Sprinkle with salt.
• Put chops on a shallow dish (or in a large Ziploc bag). Add lemon juice, soy sauce and 7-up. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
• Drain and dry thoroughly with paper towels.
• Coat with tapioca starch and fry until golden brown on both sides.
• Prepare the mango salsa by mixing all the ingredients listed under Mango Salsa
• Serve with steamed rice and mango salsa.
• Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 30gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10g

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