Guide Note

Pork Chops are made from the meat of pork ribs or loin chops, distinguished by the T-shaped bone surrounding most chops.

Fast Facts

1. Cuts: pork sirloin chop, pork loin sirloin chop, and sirloin pork chop
2. Contain large amounts of collagen
3. Iowa Chop is a thicker center cut
4. Often served with applesauce

Depending on the cut acquired, pork chops can be reasonably grilled, fried, broiled or braised. Guy Fieri cooks his Cuban Pork Chops by searing on each side, then sauteeing in canola oil for several minutes.

If a marinade is used, it may be preferable to broil or roast the chops. Spicy marinades also work if barbecuing.

Though whole cuts of beef steak can usually be cooked to desired doneness, it is necessary to more thoroughly cook pork products in order to kill bacteria and avoid trichinosis.

Exposed surface area should be cooked to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, however the center need only be cooked to 144 degrees to eliminate the trichiniasis threat. The pork should be cooked to 155 or 160 degrees for a more well done chop.