The ultimate air fryer coffee-crusted pork chops

This mouthwatering recipe for coffee-crusted pork chops in the air fryer packs a punch with a simple rub made from coffee grounds, creating a robust and aromatic pork chop ready in just 10 minutes.

Pork chops and air fryers? A match made in South African culinary heaven. Dry rubs are our secret weapon, elevating the taste to the next level. This particular rub, featuring coffee, brings out the pork’s natural richness while infusing it with the deep, aromatic notes of coffee.

What’s in a coffee rub?

Coffee offers a spectrum of flavours from complex to subtle. South Africans, we’ve got a soft spot for coffee, in all its diverse forms. Incorporating coffee into a rub isn’t just innovative; it’s downright delicious. While coffee grounds can be bitter solo, blending them with other spices creates a harmonious symphony of bold flavours, enriching the pork’s taste without overpowering it.

For this recipe, kick things off with your favourite ground coffee, a medium grind is perfect. Pair that with brown sugar for balance. Add depth with chili powder and smoked paprika. Onion and garlic powder add layers of savouriness. Ground coriander introduces a zestiness, and a pinch of cinnamon enhances the flavour medley. A dash of salt ties everything together.

Preparation

Getting these coffee-crusted pork chops ready is a breeze. Combine all the dry ingredients, brush your pork chops with a touch of olive oil, then generously apply the seasoning rub. I love to pile it on, creating a flavour-packed crust. Any leftover rub? Save it for another flavourful adventure.

Air fry at 200°C for 8-12 minutes

Begin by preheating your air fryer at 200°C for 5 minutes – this step’s crucial. When you pop those pork chops in, you want that sizzle. Once preheated, switch to the air fry setting for 8-12 minutes, adjusting for pork chop thickness. Around ½” thick? Aim for 8 minutes. Over 1.25″ thick? Give them 12 minutes. Aim for an internal temperature of 63°C. A trusty food thermometer ensures perfection. Remember to flip your chops halfway through.

Rest before serving

Once cooked to perfection, gently remove your pork chops from the air fryer. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes on a plate before slicing and serving. Resting ensures the juices evenly distribute, resulting in tender, juicy pork chops with every bite. Enjoy!