2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon chopped rosemary
1 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 pork loin chops (about 3/4 pound each)
2 teaspoons olive oil
Combine the brown sugar, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub mixture all over chops. Let spices penetrate meat for a few minutes before cooking. If there's time, cover and put in refrigerator for a few hours before cooking.
If chops have been refrigerated, remove them from refrigerator and let the chill dissipate for 10 to 15 minutes.
Warm a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and swirl to coat the pan. Lay the pork chops in the pan to cook. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip the pork chop. Cook for 6 more minutes and then begin checking for doneness. The pork chop is done when the interior registers at least 145°F with an instant-read thermometer. A 1-inch thick chop will be done (medium-rare) in about 12 minutes total; cook an extra minute or two per side if you prefer your chops more well-done. Bone-in chops will also take a few extra minutes to cook.
Place the pork chops on a plate and pour the pan juices over the top. Tent loosely with foil, and let rest a few minutes before serving.
Recipe Note
• For the best pork chops, cook and eat the chops on the same day or the next day after you buy them. If you can afford it, buy organic or antibiotic-free meat from as small and local a farmer as possible.
This post and recipe have been updated. Originally published June 2009.