Fried pork chop is a beloved dish, but where did it actually come from? There’s been some debate—many believe it’s Japanese, but a colleague from Shanghai argues it’s a traditional Shanghai snack. Known locally as fried large chop, it’s typically served with soy sauce over rice. So, where does the truth lie?
The Origin of Fried Pork Chop:
According to Wikipedia, both the Japanese and Shanghai versions of fried pork chop are derived from the Viennese schnitzel, a classic Austrian dish. This shows that what we call “fried pork chop” has an interesting European origin, having traveled across continents before becoming a favorite in various cultures.
A Fried Pork Chop Sandwich:
Moving beyond its traditional form, let’s take this crispy delight to the next level. The Lonely Eats blog features a special fried pork chop sandwich, combining pork chop, bread, lettuce, tomatoes, and even apples. The apple slices cut through the richness of the pork, offering a refreshing twist to the texture and flavor. Even the famous character McDull would likely find it irresistible! 
Fried Pork Chop Sandwich Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Pork tenderloin: 250g
- Flour: As needed
- Cornstarch: As needed
- Bread slices: 2
- Shredded lettuce: As needed
- Tomato slices: As needed
- Apple slices: As needed
- Salad dressing: As needed
Marinade:
- Soy sauce: 1 tsp
- White sugar: ½ tsp
- Salt: ⅓ tsp
- Broth: 4 tsp
- Vinegar: ¼ tsp
- Black pepper: To taste
- Garlic powder: To taste
Directions:
- Marinate the Pork: Mix the marinade ingredients, cut the pork tenderloin into 7mm thick slices, and marinate overnight.
- Fry the Pork Chop: Set up three bowls. Bowl A: Beaten eggs. Bowl B: A mixture of flour and cornstarch (3:1). Bowl C: Breadcrumbs. Coat the marinated pork in the A-B-C-B-A-C sequence, then fry in medium heat oil until golden. Drain the oil.
- Double Fry: After draining, raise the oil temperature and fry the pork a second time until the surface is darker, then drain again and set aside.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Toast or fry the bread slices until crispy. Spread a layer of salad dressing, then layer lettuce, tomato, pork chop, apple slices, and more lettuce. Top with another slice of bread, cut diagonally, and serve.
Tips:
Adding apple slices to the sandwich helps cut through the oiliness of the pork chop. Green apples work especially well for this!
