If you’re looking for a way to make your pork chops juicy and flavorful, this quick and easy marinade is the answer. Perfect for grilling, this simple recipe infuses the chops with a delicious blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this marinade will elevate your pork chops to a whole new level. Get ready to enjoy tender, mouthwatering chops that are sure to be a hit at your next cookout!
Steps
- Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and black pepper in a ziplock bag. Seal the bag and massage the ingredients to mix them well.
- Add the pork chops to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for a deeper flavor.
- Remove the chops from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature. Preheat a grill or pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
- Place the pork chops on the grill or pan and cook for about 4 minutes on one side until the surface is caramelized. Flip the chops and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Baste both sides of the pork chops with the remaining marinade from the bag. Cook each side for an additional 30 seconds to enhance the flavor and develop a crust.
- Transfer the cooked chops to a plate, cover them loosely with foil, and let them rest for 3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy pork chops.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, approximately 2 cm (4/5 inch) thick, about 280g (9 oz) each
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1/3 cup (85 ml) soy sauce (light or all-purpose, not dark)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1392cal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 140g | Fat: 72g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Cholesterol: 468mg | Sodium: 556mg | Potassium: 2428mg | Sugar: 24g | Vitamin C: 3.2mg | Calcium: 172mg | Iron: 4.8mg
FAQ
- Why is soy sauce used in this pork chop marinade?
- Soy sauce acts as a brine, enhancing juiciness and adding flavor without giving the pork an “Asian” taste. It goes beyond the basic salt-water brine by contributing additional savory notes.
- What is the minimum marinating time for pork chops?
- For thin pork chops (about 1.25 cm or 1/2″ thick), a minimum of 1 hour is recommended. For thicker chops (about 2 cm or 4/5″ thick), marinate for at least 3 hours.
- Can the marinade be used for other types of meat?
- Yes, this marinade can be adapted for other meats such as chicken and steak. The recipe also suggests using marinades from recipes like Lime Chicken and Greek Chicken Gyros for pork.
- How should I cook the pork chops to achieve the best crust?
- Cook the chops on medium-high heat without moving them until they naturally release from the grill, indicating they are ready to turn. Baste with residual marinade and ensure they have a chargrilled crust.
- What side dishes pair well with these marinated pork chops?
- Suggested side dishes include Lemon Potato Salad, Crispy Smashed Potatoes, and Mushroom Rice, among others. These sides complement the flavor profile of the marinated pork chops.
Tips
- Don’t Disturb the Chops: When grilling or pan-frying, avoid moving the pork chops once you’ve placed them on the heat. They will naturally release when they’re ready to be flipped, ensuring a perfect caramelised crust.
- Manage Heat to Prevent Burning: If you notice your pork chops cooking too quickly or starting to burn due to the sugar in the marinade, reduce the heat. This will help maintain the ideal chargrilled appearance without compromising the taste.
- Marination Timing: For thin pork chops, a minimum of 1 hour of marinating is recommended, while thicker chops benefit from at least 3 hours. This ensures the marinade thoroughly infuses the meat, enhancing its juiciness and flavour.
- Rest Before Serving: After cooking, allow the pork chops to rest under foil for about 3 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish.
Equipment
- BBQ Grill – If you plan to cook the pork chops on a BBQ as mentioned in the recipe.
- Large Skillet or Pan – For those planning to pan-fry instead of grilling, a good-quality skillet is essential.
- Box Grater – If you’re making the crispy potato rosti as a side, you’ll need this to grate the potatoes.
- Ziplock Bags – For marinating the pork chops.
- Meat Thermometer – To ensure the pork is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
