Moo Tod Kratiem Prik Thai (Garlic-Pepper Pork Chops)

Method

1. 1

   Pound the pork chops between plastic wrap to an even thickness, about 1 cm, so they cook through quickly and evenly.

2. 2

   Pound or finely mince the garlic, cilantro and cracked pepper together into a coarse, fragrant paste.

3. 3

   Rub the paste over the chops with the fish sauce and sugar, and marinate at least 20 minutes.

   💡 The garlic paste smells sharp and raw at first — it mellows and sweetens as it sits on the meat.

4. 4

   Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chops 4–5 minutes per side, until deeply golden and cooked through.

5. 5

   Rest the chops 3 minutes before slicing.

6. 6

   Scrape any browned garlic bits loose from the pan and spoon them over the sliced pork.

7. 7

   Serve with jasmine rice, cucumber slices and lime wedges.