Go Back
cooknblog24@gmail.com

Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops Recipe

A rich, tangy vegan version of Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops—easy, elegant, and ridiculously satisfying.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 365
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Vegan “Pork Chops”
  • 2 cups seitan or extra-firm tofu thickly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • For the Balsamic Glaze
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp cornstarch optional for thickness
  • For Garnish
  • Fresh thyme leaves
  • Lemon zest

Method
 

  1. Prepare the “Pork”: Pat dry seitan or tofu and season with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Sear to Perfection: Heat a skillet on medium-high heat. Sear each side for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and garlic.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour mixture into the skillet. Simmer on medium heat for 5–6 minutes until slightly reduced and glossy.
  5. Coat the “Chops”: Return “pork chops” to the pan. Spoon glaze generously over each piece.
  6. Thicken if Desired: Stir in cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water) for extra shine and stickiness.
  7. Serve in Style: Plate beautifully, drizzle extra glaze, and garnish with thyme and lemon zest.
  8. Optional Extra: Pair with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for total dinner drama.

Notes

Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 365
  • Total Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.4g
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g

Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Iron: 21%
  • Calcium: 17%
  • Vitamin C: 13%
  • Magnesium: 12%
  • Vitamin B6: 9%

Additional Notes/Tips

  • Add a splash of red wine for deeper flavor (and a sip for you, obviously).
  • Use coconut sugar instead of maple syrup for a smoky twist.
  • Air fry instead of pan-searing for lighter texture.
  • Serve with garlic mash, quinoa, or green beans for the perfect balance.
  • Warning: you may start glazing everything after tasting this sauce.