Ah, pork chops—those beautifully marbled slices of heaven that sizzle and sing on a summer grill. My childhood summers were filled with these juicy delights, their aroma wafting through backyard barbecues like a promise of happiness. Have you ever tried grilling them with a dash of apple cider vinegar? Trust me, it’s a game-changer, though, admittedly, the last time I attempted it, I ended up with more char than charm.
Steps
- Combine olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and black pepper in a small bowl to create the marinade. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Place the pork chops in a large zip-top bag or a baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the pork chops are fully coated, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 8 hours for best flavor absorption.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F. Remove pork chops from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and discard the leftover marinade.
- Sear the pork chops on the grill for about 2 minutes per side. Lower the heat to medium and continue grilling for an additional 4-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the pork chop without touching the bone. Once done, transfer the pork chops to a clean plate, cover with foil, and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 bone-in pork chops, each at least 1 inch thick
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1780kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 144g | Fat: 116g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Cholesterol: 468mg | Sodium: 2676mg | Potassium: 2476mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 24g | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 176mg | Iron: 8mg
FAQ
- What is the best type of pork chop for grilling?
- For optimal results, choose bone-in pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick. The bone helps retain moisture, reducing the risk of the meat drying out. If you opt for boneless pork chops, be aware that they might cook more quickly.
- How should I prepare the pork chop marinade?
- Combine olive oil, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix well, then pour over the pork chops in a zip-top bag or baking dish. Allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, and up to 8 hours for enhanced flavor.
- What is the recommended internal temperature for grilled pork chops?
- The USDA advises cooking pork chops to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F. After reaching this temperature, let the chops rest for at least 3 minutes. This resting time allows the temperature to rise slightly due to carryover cooking.
- What side dishes go well with grilled pork chops?
- Grilled pork chops pair beautifully with a variety of summer sides such as macaroni salad, potato salad, broccoli slaw or coleslaw, instant pot baked beans, fruit salad, or cucumber salad.
- Can I use a different cooking method if I don’t have a grill?
- Absolutely. While this recipe is designed for grilling, you can also cook pork chops using other methods such as baking, pan searing, or using an air fryer or crock pot. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the pork reaches the recommended internal temperature.
Tips
- Opt for bone-in pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick to help retain moisture and prevent them from drying out during grilling.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Remember to let them rest for at least 3 minutes afterward to allow the temperature to rise slightly due to carryover cooking.
- Marinate the pork chops for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours to enhance their flavor. Be sure to discard any excess marinade before grilling to avoid flare-ups.
- If using boneless pork chops, be mindful that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so adjust the grilling time accordingly.
Equipment
- Outdoor Gas Grill (or Charcoal Grill) – Essential for grilling the pork chops.
- Instant Read Thermometer – To accurately measure the internal temperature of the pork chops.
- Grill Pan – If cooking indoors or if a grill is not available.
- Large Zip-Top Bags – Useful for marinating the pork chops.
