Caribbean-Style Rum Glazed Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy pork chops caramelized with a rich rum glaze and topped with a fresh pineapple salsa for a tropical twist. This caribbean-inspired pork ready in about 35 minutes blends (6 oz each) bone-in pork chops, dark rum, brown sugar into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Caribbean cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 4 bone-in pork chops (6 oz each) and season both sides with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork chops and sear for 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through; transfer to a plate.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1/3 cup dark rum, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 2 tbsp soy sauce. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens into a syrupy glaze.
  4. Step 4: Return pork chops to the skillet and coat them with the rum glaze. Cook for 2 more minutes, spooning glaze over chops.
  5. Step 5: For the salsa, combine 1 cup diced fresh pineapple, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, and 2 tbsp lime juice in a bowl. Mix gently.
  6. Step 6: Serve the glazed pork chops topped with the pineapple salsa while warm.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Caribbean-Style Rum Glazed Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (15 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Caribbean-Style Rum Glazed Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Caribbean-Style Rum Glazed Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Caribbean-Style Rum Glazed Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Caribbean-Style Rum Glazed Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa?

Caribbean pork like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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