Puerto Rican Vegan Shake and Bake “Pork” Chops: A Flavorful Twist
In the vibrant world of Puerto Rican cuisine, flavors are not just about taste; they’re about culture, heritage, and the people who bring these dishes to life. Today, we’re going to give the classic Shake and Bake pork chops a delicious Puerto Rican vegan makeover, using the iconic trio of Puerto Rican flavors: Sazón, Adobo, and Sofrito.
Why This Recipe?
This dish combines the ease and simplicity of Shake and Bake with the bold, savory flavors that make Puerto Rican cooking so beloved. By using plant-based ingredients, we make this recipe accessible to everyone while maintaining the authentic flavors that are the heart and soul of Puerto Rican cuisine.
Ingredients
For the “Pork” Chops
- 6 slices of extra-firm tofu, tempeh, or seitan (cut into chop-like shapes)
- Note: TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) is also a great option, especially in Puerto Rico where it’s easily available and very affordable.
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For the Puerto Rican Spice Blend
- 2 cups plain bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Puerto Rican Sazón (see below for recipe)
- 1 teaspoon Puerto Rican Adobo (see below for recipe)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Puerto Rican Sazón Recipe
- 1 tablespoon ground annatto (achiote)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Puerto Rican Adobo Recipe
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
Instructions
Prepare the Sazón and Adobo
- Combine all the ingredients for the Sazón in a bowl and mix well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Mix all the ingredients for the Adobo thoroughly. Store in a sealed container for up to 6 months.
Prepare the Spice Blend
- In a large bowl or ziplock bag, combine the bread crumbs, olive oil, Sazón, Adobo, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix or shake until well combined.
Season the “Pork” Chops
- Place one slice of tofu, tempeh, or seitan into the bowl or ziplock bag with the spice blend. Coat the “pork” chop evenly, then transfer it to a greased sheet pan. Repeat with the remaining slices.
Add an Extra Layer of Flavor (Optional)
- For an added depth of flavor, sauté 2-3 tablespoons of Sofrito in a little olive oil before adding the “pork” chops to the pan. This will “awaken” the flavors and add a rich aromatic base to your dish.
Bake the “Pork” Chops
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Grease the sheet pan with nonstick spray if not already done.
- Bake the “pork” chops for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
A Healthier Tip
- For a healthier and more balanced flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or white vinegar to the glaze if you choose to add one after baking. This not only enhances the flavor but also provides additional health benefits.
Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the baked “pork” chops to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or scallions. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or roasted vegetables.
Cultural Significance
Puerto Rican cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors influenced by the island’s indigenous Taíno people, Spanish colonizers, and African traditions. The use of Sazón, Adobo, and Sofrito—known as the “Puerto Rican trifecta”—adds depth and authenticity to any dish. These blends not only enhance the flavors but also evoke a sense of community and heritage.
In this recipe, the Adobo blend enhances and tenderizes the plant-based proteins, giving them a bold, savory flavor reminiscent of traditional Puerto Rican grilled proteins. The Sazón adds a golden-red color and depth to the dish, while the optional Sofrito provides a rich aromatic base that ties everything together.
Tips and Variations
- Alternative Proteins: If you prefer other plant-based options, you can use TVP, tempeh, or seitan. However, beans such as chickpeas or black beans can also be a delicious alternative to traditional “pork” chops.
- Balancing Flavors: For added health benefits and to balance the flavors, a splash of vinegar can be mixed into any glaze or sauce you might add.
- Using Sofrito: If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, sauté Sofrito in oil before adding the “pork” chops. This will “awaken” the flavors and add a rich aromatic base to your dish.
Enjoy your delicious Puerto Rican Vegan Shake and Bake “Pork” Chops, a dish that blends the best of both worlds in a flavorful and culturally rich way. ¡Buen provecho