Yes, you can shred boneless pork chops! Shredding pork chops is a great way to use up leftovers or transform a plain pork chop into something more exciting. While you’ll get the best results shredding bone-in pork chops, it’s certainly possible to shred boneless chops too.
The key is to cook the boneless chops first until they are fall-apart tender. This allows the meat to shred easily. You’ll want to use moist cooking methods like braising, simmering in sauce, or slow cooking to get the chops tender. Grilling, pan frying, or baking alone likely won’t make the chops tender enough to shred.
Once the pork chops are fully cooked and cooled slightly, you can use two forks or fingers to shred the meat. You’ll be able to pull it into long, stringy threads. Shredded pork chops make excellent additions to tacos, nachos, sandwiches, pasta, soups, and more. They add texture and flavor just like shredded pork shoulder or chicken.
How to Shred Boneless Pork Chops
Follow these simple steps for shredding boneless pork chops:
Step 1: Choose the Right Chop
Opt for boneless pork loin or rib chops about 1 inch thick. Very thin chops may dry out and overcook too quickly, while thick chops take longer to become tender. Boneless sirloin chops or pork cutlets can also work.
Step 2: Cook with Moist Heat
Braising, simmering in sauce, or slow cooking are the best cooking methods for shredding boneless chops. This moist heat thoroughly and gently cooks the meat.
For braising, brown the chops first in a skillet, then add a small amount of liquid like broth or water. Cover and cook at a gentle simmer for 1-2 hours until tender.
Simmering the chops in tomato sauce, salsa, or another flavorful sauce produces similar moist, tender results. Cook covered for at least one hour.
Slow cooking the chops with some liquid in a crockpot on low for 6-8 hours also allows the meat to become fall-apart tender.
Step 3: Shred the Chops
Once the pork chops are fully cooked, take them out of the cooking liquid and let cool slightly. Then use two forks or your fingers to pull the meat into shreds or strings.
Discard any fat or gristle. Keep shredding until all the meat is pulled apart.
Step 4: Use the Shredded Meat
Stir the shredded pork chops into soups, chilis, pasta sauces, tacos, sandwiches, rice bowls, and more. You can also crisp them up in a skillet for carnitas-style tacos. Enjoy!
Tips for Moist, Tender Results
Follow these tips to help ensure your boneless pork chops become fall-apart tender for easy shredding:
– Don’t overcook. Cook just until a thermometer reads 160°F. Overcooked meat will be dry.
– Add liquid. The moisture helps tenderize the meat. Use broth, water, juice, or sauce.
– Bring to a gentle simmer. Vigorously boiling chops can make them tough.
– Keep chops whole. Shred after cooking, not before, for best texture.
– Let chops rest before shredding. This allows juices to re-absorb for moistness.
– Shred across the grain. Pulling meat across the grain makes it easier.
Unique Ways to Use Shredded Pork Chops
Shredded pork chops are endlessly versatile. Here are some unique ways to enjoy this tasty shredded meat:
– Tacos – Top corn or flour tortillas with shredded pork, salsa, avocado, cotija cheese, and cilantro.
– Handhelds – Stuff shredded pork into rolls or sandwiches along with pickles, slaw, and barbecue sauce.
– Salad – Toss shredded pork with mixed greens, veggies, beans, cheese, and vinaigrette.
– Omelet Filling – Make a breakfast omelet with eggs, shredded pork, onions, peppers, and cheese.
– Hash – Cook shredded pork with potatoes, peppers, and onions for a tasty hash.
– Nachos – Top chips with shredded pork, beans, cheese, jalapeños, and more for nachos.
– Pizza – Sprinkle shredded pork over pizza along with other favorite toppings.
– Pasta Sauce – Toss cooked pasta with shredded pork and marinara sauce.
– Soup – Add shredded pork to minestrone, tomato, tortilla, or vegetable soup.
– Fried Rice – Stir shredded pork into freshly cooked rice with veggies and soy sauce.
FAQs
What is the best cut of pork for shredding?
Boneless pork loin or shoulder chops work best. They have more fat and connective tissue than tenderloin, so they shred easier after braising.
How long does it take to braise boneless pork chops?
Plan on braising boneless pork chops for 1-2 hours to make them shred-ably tender. Thicker chops take longer than thin. Cook until chops reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
Can you shred pork chops in a slow cooker?
Yes, the slow cooker is perfect for shredding pork chops! Cook boneless chops on low heat for 6-8 hours until very tender. Then shred.
What temperature do you cook pork chops to shred them?
Always cook pork to a safe internal temperature of 160°F as measured by a meat thermometer. This ensures any bacteria are killed. The chops need to reach this temp for shredding.
Do you remove the fat when shredding pork chops?
Yes, after cooking it’s best to shred the pork chops while still warm. Then discard any large pieces of fat or gristle. Some fat can be left in for flavor and moisture.
The Bottom Line
Shredding boneless pork chops takes a little time and the right cooking method but yields delicious results. Braise, simmer in sauce, or slow cook the chops until extremely tender. Once cooled slightly, use two forks to pull the meat apart into long strands or shreds for versatile recipes from tacos to soups, pastas, pizzas, and more. With moist heat and some elbow grease, you’ll be able to transform plain pork chops into flavorful shredded meat.