Pork chops were a dish I treasured preparing in my early adulthood. Cooking for my parents and myself on weekends brought me comfort, and those shared moments meant so much to me.

While preparing this baked pork chop recipe with some beloved classic Filipino ingredients for my family, I couldn’t help but feel nostalgic, reminiscing about those cherished days with my parents.

Ingredients:

• 6 pieces of pork chops
• 1 whole lemon or 3 pieces calamansi (Philippine lemon)
• 1/2 cup Filipino brand soy sauce
• 4 cloves of garlic, crushed and minced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/4 cup banana ketchup
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (For grilling)

Recipe Preparation:

1. Prepare the marinade by mixing soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, salt, sugar, black pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir well.
2. Place pork chops in a large bowl with marinade, cover, and refrigerate for about 5-8 hours.
3. Arrange pork chops on a large baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-25 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), then broil for 2 minutes per side. Alternatively, grill the marinated pork chops over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, basting with marinade and oil. Repeat twice, adding more time if needed.
4. Transfer to a serving plate. Enjoy!