Smoked Pork Chops Recipe – Oma's Kasseler (2024)

Home
German Meat Recipes
Smoked Pork Chops

by: Gerhild Fulson / Cookbook Author, Blogger, German Oma!

This post may contain affiliate links, whichmeans I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extracost to you. Please readfull disclosurefor more information.

This smoked pork chops recipe is one of those traditional German food recipes that is so easy and quick to make.

The only difficulty you may have is finding the meat. Most delis will have this - called "Kasseler" (or "Kassler") - it's a type of salt-cured and slightly smoked pork loin chops.Can't find that? Check below for alternatives.

Together with making the potato salad and broccoli, thequick German mealbelow was ready in under 30 minutes. A verytraditional German Kasseler dinner!

Can't find Kasseler?

Then athick piece of boneless cooked hamwould work, although not quite the same flavor. You may want to try different brands to find one that tastes "just right".
A similar flavor can be had by using a thick piece of Canadian pea-meal bacon. Again, these are just substitutes for the real thing.

Dinner Tips ...

It doesn't get much easier than the recipe below! Just long enough in the pan to get it a bit browned and hot.

Below, it is shown served with some quick and easy potato salad and some steamed broccoli. Thechops are done within 5 to 10 minutes, so together with making thepotato salad and broccoli, this dinner was ready in under 30 minutes, starting from scratch.

All the meat needs is a quick fry to heat and brown. Often it'sserved withsauerkrautandmashed potatoesfor a really traditional German meal.Finish off the meal in real German style by serving fruit over ice cream ("Heiss und Eis") or a pudding.

Choose your own favorite side dishes from the many German food recipes posted underor Vegetable Recipes-- great accompaniments to these smoked pork chops.

Health benefits of Pork

It is important to include meats into your diet as your source of protein. Why is it so good for your body? Protein is responsible for fuelling the energy to your body to keep you from feeling weak and tired. It also assists in carrying oxygen through your blood.

With a lack of protein, your body can show significant changes in energy levels. You can lose muscle mass and slow your metabolism, which can cause fatigue, anemia, low blood pressure, and other health concerns. Protein is a key ingredient to keeping your body healthy and strong!

Pork is also an excellent source of vitamins B12 and B6, which are crucial vitamins that your body needs. These vitamins are good for brain function, proper blood cell formation, and more. But wait, there's more!

Did you know that pork is a Wunderbar source of iron too? Irons' job is to transport oxygen throughout your body, from your lungs to your bloodstream. It plays a big role in your body's overall function.

Pork is strongly suggested to those who struggle with low blood pressure, anemia, and low iron, seeing as it is SO beneficial. That's just one more reason to make this delicious recipe!

There’s something absolutely mouth-watering about having a German meat-and-potato dinner. Get Oma's revised collection of her favorites inGerman Meat Dishes.

Take a peek at all Oma's eCookbooks. They make sharing your German heritage a delicious adventure!

Oma says:

Where the original name "Kasseler" comes from is unknown. It is assumed that it did NOT come from the town of Kassel in Germany.

It's a salted and slightly smoked cut of pork, usually loin or neck. Often there's a bone, but this can be removed if desired before cooking.

Lydia Remembers ...

I have so many wunderbar memories in the kitchen with my Oma and have had MANY of her most popular and traditional recipes, like these smoked pork chops!

My first time having these pork chops was after spending the day at Oma's, working together on some new pages for you to enjoy! We decided on a traditional German dish for dinner, and off we went to the kitchen!

Observing Oma's techniques in the kitchen is something I have loved doing ever since I was little, and she still amazes me to this day. This pork chops meal was no exception. The immaculate flavors melt in your mouth.

I LOVE when my pork has lots of juiciness, flavor, and spices on top to add a nice crispy crust, and this pork had just that. I ate a huge piece and still wanted more ... it was that good!

We enjoyed some creamy brussels sprouts with our pork chops, and the two just go together so well. These pork chops sure are memorable, and I find myself craving them often!

Learn a little bit about me, Lydia, and my kitchen adventures with Oma!

Ready to make these smoked pork chops?

Is the recipe below locked?Here'swhy.

Smoked Pork Chops Recipe – Oma's Kasseler

This smoked pork chops recipe is one of those traditional Germanfood recipes that is so easy and quick to make.The only difficulty youmay have is finding the meat.

Most delis will have this - called Kasseler - it's a type of smoked pork loin chops.Can't find that? Check the hints for alternatives.

Prep Time

1 minute

Cook Time

5 minutes

Total Time

6 minutes

Servings:

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:

4 smoked pork chops (Kasseler)
oil and/or butter to fry

Instructions:

Heat oil and/or butter, about 2 tablespoons in a fry pan.
Over medium heat, lightly brown Kasseler chops on both sides.
Serve and enjoy. Great with German mustard, potatoes, and vegetables.

Notes/Hints:

A thick piece of boneless cooked hamwould work, although not quite the same flavor. You may want to try different brands to find one that tastes "just right".
A similar flavor can be had by using a thick piece of Canadian peameal bacon. Again, these are just substitutes for the real thing.
Try any European deli and see if they carry this. I've found Kasseler in a Polish deli, a Dutch deli, and, of course, a German one. It may not be labelled as such, but try anything that's labeled as smoked pork chops, or cured and smoked chops. You may just be pleasantly surprised.

* * * * *

Unless otherwise noted recipe, images and content © Just like Oma | www.quick-german-recipes.com

Newest Recipes

The Best Jagerschnitzel Sauce: Oma's Mushroom Gravy for Jägerschnitzel
Jagerschnitzel: Rich creamy bacon & mushroom gravy over crispy breaded pork schnitzel (cutlets). HEAVENLY! A traditional German meal that's PERFECT anytime.
Go to Recipe
How to Make German Schnitzel Recipe: Oma's Classic Schweineschnitzel
Discover the ultimate German schnitzel recipe with Oma's quick and easy method - perfect for any occasion! Taste the authentic flavors of Germany today.
Go to Recipe
Oma's Favorite Finds offer a range of Oma’s favorite German-inspired must-have items that make cooking and entertaining more enjoyable, yummy, and efficient.
Go to Recipe

* * * * *

PIN to SAVE this recipe to your Pinterest board!

And let’s be friends on Pinterest!

Oma's Smoked Pork Chops Recipe ~ Kasseler

By Oma Gerhild Fulson

Smoked pork chops, Kasseler are one of those traditional German recipes that's so easy & quick to make. Delicious with a quick potato salad or sauerkraut on the side.

Ingredients: smoked pork chops,oil,

For the full recipe, scroll up ...

Words to the Wise

"Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you."

Proverbs 11:17 (NLT)

Top of Smoked Pork Chops Recipe

Smoked Pork Chops Recipe – Oma's Kasseler (2024)

FAQs

Are smoked pork chops already fully cooked? ›

The great thing about smoked meats—besides the wonderful flavor—is that they come fully cooked, requiring a simple warm-up on the stove, grill, or oven. For our recipe, you'll need fully cooked smoked pork chops, and just a few minutes in a frying pan, under the broiler, or on the grill.

Keep Reading ›

What cut of pork is Kassler? ›

Kassler (German: [ˈkaslɐ]) or Kasseler in German cuisine is the name given to a cured and slightly smoked cut of pork similar to gammon. It can be either hot or cold smoked. Pork necks and loins are the most often used cuts although ribs, shoulders and bellies can also be used.

Tell Me More ›

How long to smoke pork chops at 225? ›

Smoking the pork chops at 225°F for 90 minutes – 2 hours means the pork chops will absorb all of the delicious smoky flavors, without drying the pork chops out.

Read On ›

What to do with Kassler? ›

"German Kassler is a cured and lightly smoked pork loin. It's delicious in stews, but also in combination with cabbage, as with us in combination with sauerkraut—another real German classic. The already cured and smoked meat only needs to be briefly roasted, boiled, or baked in the oven.

Learn More Now ›

Why are my smoked pork chops tough? ›

Because pork chops are such a lean cut, they are relatively quick-cooking and prone to overcooking. When they're cooked for even a few minutes too long, whether it's in the oven or on the stovetop or grill, they're quick to dry out, and — you guessed it — become tough, chewy, and less than appealing.

Should I sear pork chops before or after smoking? ›

The actual cooking part is going to be a two step process.

BUT, if you want to really take things to the next level, you might want to consider searing your pork chop after the smoke stage. Contrary to popular belief, searing meat does not lock in any juices.

Keep Reading ›

Can you eat Kassler without cooking? ›

The process of smoking and ripening in a salt brine, makes the meat ready-to-eat as is. So, keep in mind, that the cooking time of Kasseler Rippchen is short - it really only needs to be heated through. Kasseler Rippchen goes well with a cold German beer.

Show Me More ›

Is Kassler ready to eat? ›

Serving – Serve at room temperature. Kasseler has been hot smoked so is ready to eat! Storage – Keep Kasseler refrigerated & consumer within 3 days of opening.

Read The Full Story ›

Is Kassler already cooked? ›

Our German Smoked Pork Chops come from the center cut loin and are cured and smoked for exceptional flavor. Around Amana, they are known as Kassler Rippchen. They're fully cooked, so simply heat and serve.

Find Out More ›

Do you have to brine pork chops before smoking? ›

You don't always hear a lot about brining pork like you do with poultry but I think it makes a big difference on things like pork chops. It adds lots of moisture to the meat and it adds flavor so it's well worth your time to do it.

Find Out More ›

How long can you keep Kassler chops in the fridge? ›

A: We recommend 12-14 days in the refrigerator. If not intending to use within that time, freeze them up to 60 days. Enjoy!

Discover More ›

Where do Kassler chops come from? ›

Originating from German cuisine , Kassler chops are a cured & lightly smoked cut of pork loin , ideal for a tasty , quick mid-week meal.

Are smoked pork chops pink when cooked? ›

Is it ok if my pork is slightly pink? The short answer to this common question is yes! Due to the ingredients and natural preservatives found in many pork products, it's entirely possible that your meat may still be slightly pink even when it's fully cooked. In fact, pork can even be enjoyed medium-rare.

Get More Info Here ›

How do you tell if smoked pork chops are done? ›

Place the chops on the smoker and cook until the internal temp reads 145 degrees F with a reliable meat thermometer (approximately 60-90 minutes). Tent, rest, and serve.

Is Smoked Meat considered cooked? ›

Although foods that have been hot smoked are often reheated or further cooked, they are typically safe to eat without further cooking. Hams and ham hocks are fully cooked once they are properly smoked, and they can be eaten as is without any further preparation.

View Details ›

Is smoked pork ready to eat? ›

Smoking a pork butt takes roughly 8 to 10 hours from start to being ready to eat, so don't think you can run to the store when you get off work grab a pork butt and be eating it anytime that night. It's not going to happen! Make sure you have the time from start to finish.