Trim fat from pork chops and brown, turning to brown both sides. Remove chops and add a little more oil if needed. Sauté garlic for a minute, being careful not to burn it.

For sauce, combine 2 tsp of oil, sherry or broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper. Place pork chops in skillet and pour sauce over them. Cover tightly and simmer over low heat until chops are tender and cooked through, about 30 to 35 minutes. Add a Tbsp or two of water if sauce cooks down too much. Turn chops once.

Remove chops to warm platter and keep warm. Dissolve cornstarch in the cold water; add to sauce and continue to cook until thickened. Pour sauce over chops and serve.