Grilled Pork Chop Recipes
Gilling Pork Chops
Pork chops are considered the most popular cut from pork. Pork loin, which is the meat used for chops, runs from the hip to the shoulder on a pig. It is considered leaner than most cuts and possesses little fat. Most pork sold in stores today has already been infused with a salt solution to keep it moist and full of flavor, so oil and pepper are really the bare minimum, though there are plenty of alternatives to consider.
Some of the most exquisite recipes for grilling pork chops include seasoning or a marinade. Soak chops overnight in a simple brine of 1/8 cup of salt, 1/8 cup of brown sugar, 2 cups of water, fresh herbs, and garlic, mixing well until the salt and sugar have dissolved. A quick and easy marinade can be created with 1 cup of olive oil, 1 cup of balsamic vinegar, fresh herbs, and garlic stirred well. Barbecue sauce, soy sauce, Worcestershire, vinegars, and ciders make a great base for a marinade and can be seasoned and adjusted to your liking. You can also add moisture to your meat by stuffing your chops with vegetables before cooking.
How do you grill pork chops without drying them out?
Rib and loin chops are high in fat, making them much more flavorful and less likely to dry out on the grill. Despite popular belief, it is safe to cook chops to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. They will still be slightly pink in the middle, but your chops will be moister than those cooked well done.
How long should you cook pork chops on the grill?
Place the chops over direct heat and close the lid, allowing the meat to sear and form a stunning crust. You can then move your cuts to lower heat to finish. Grill for 8-12 minutes total, flipping only once for the best results. They can be removed at 140-160 degrees Fahrenheit, given your preference. Rest your grilled pork chops for 3-5 minutes to allow the moisture to redistribute throughout the meat.
What cut of pork chop is best for grilling?
When deciding on what meat to use, bone-in rib chops and bone-in loin chops are the best selection. These chops have a bone running along one side and a large eye of loin muscle. You want to choose a cut of at least 1 inch thick, but 1 ½ -2 inches of thickness are the best option for grilled pork chop recipes.
What is a good side dish for pork chops?
There truly are no boundaries when deciding on sides for your grilled pork chop recipes. Pork is a versatile main course that can be accompanied by vegetables, pastas, breads, salads, and more. Potatoes are a common side that can be prepared multiple ways, such as mashed potatoes, seasoned roasted potatoes, scalloped, baked, or as a potato salad. Vegetable fried rice, deviled eggs, and macaroni and cheese couple brilliantly with grilled chops. When making a delectable and unforgettable meal, try something exotic such as baked avocados with fresh salsa, a spicy broccoli sauté, baby veggies with orange and thyme, or something as simple as glazed carrots, cornbread, Caesar salad, or a green bean almondine.
