Remember that first cold night when the chill of winter blankets Perth, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal to bring the family together. One standout recipe from the Nyabing Heritage Cookbook that perfectly captures this cozy spirit is Sticky Chinese Chops. This dish, infused with a rich blend of sweet and savory flavors, not only warms the heart but also celebrates a heritage rooted in simplicity and resourcefulness.
A Flavorful Harmony
At the heart of Sticky Chinese Chops is a mouthwatering marinade that combines barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, and sweet chili sauce, creating a sticky glaze that coats the meat beautifully. The addition of Chinese five-spice powder and ground ginger adds depth and warmth, while garlic brings a hint of aromatic freshness. This balance of flavors transforms humble lamb or pork chops into a culinary delight that tantalizes the taste buds.
When you bite into these chops, the sweetness from the honey and barbecue sauce melds perfectly with the savory undertones of soy sauce, making each mouthful an explosion of flavor. The sticky texture clings to the meat, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the last.
A Taste of Tradition
The origins of this recipe reflect a rich history of home cooking, particularly in rural Western Australia. The Nyabing Heritage Cookbook pays homage to the traditional practices of families who raised their own livestock. In many homes, especially those where farming was a way of life, recipes evolved based on what was readily available—often homegrown or locally sourced.
The use of lamb or pork chops in this recipe is a testament to this resourcefulness. By making the most of what is available, families have created meals that not only nourish but also bring everyone to the table, fostering connections and shared stories. The flexibility of the ingredients allows for creativity, encouraging cooks to adapt the recipe based on pantry staples or personal preferences.
Perfect Pairings for Winter
As the oven warms up to 180°C, the aroma of the sticky chops wafts through the house, creating a sense of anticipation. After 35-40 minutes, these golden-brown delights are ready to be served. While they shine on their own, pairing them with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables takes this dish to another level.
The buttery richness of the mashed potatoes perfectly complements the robust flavors of the chops, while the fresh crunch of steamed vegetables adds a refreshing contrast. This combination not only satisfies the palate but also provides a wholesome meal, perfect for a cozy night in.
A Simple Yet Satisfying Recipe
One of the beautiful aspects of Sticky Chinese Chops is its simplicity. With ingredients most people have in their pantry, it’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t demand hours of preparation. Whether you’re using leftover ingredients or substituting as needed, this dish encourages creativity and ease in the kitchen.
Sticky Chinese Chops
Course: MainCuisine: ChineseDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes40
minutes400
kcalOne standout recipe from the Nyabing Heritage Cookbook that perfectly captures this cozy spirit is Sticky Chinese Chops.
Ingredients
6 lamb or pork chops
1/3 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
4 tbsp vinegar
1/2 tsp Chinese 5 spice powder
1/2 tsp ground ginger
2 tsp garlic
1/3 cup sweet chilli sauce
Directions
- Marinade your chops prior for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 180°C
- Lightly spray a large baking dish with oil and arrange chops in a single layer.
- Pour the remaining marinade evenly over the chops
- Place in oven and bake for 35 - 40 minutes until cooked. Baste chops with sauce throughout cooking, although only turn once.
Notes
- "So good with fried rice or served with mash potato and steam vegetables.
Quantities aren't that important with this recipe, ingredients can be substituted or
removed altogether."
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