Introduction

These whiskey-marinated Irish pork chops are packed with flavor and grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. The high-heat sear from the center grill grate locks in the juices, while the flat cooktop griddle brings them to the perfect doneness. The result is a steakhouse-quality sear with incredible taste. This recipe ensures your pork chops are tender, juicy, and infused with the deep, rich flavors of Irish whiskey.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 1/2 cup Irish whiskey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine Irish whiskey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the pork chops

1. Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
2. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build. The grill will be ready for cooking in about 20 minutes.

Step 4: Sear the pork chops

1. Remove the pork chops from the marinade and pat them dry.
2. Place them onto the center grill grate and sear at 1,000°F for 1-2 minutes per side to develop a perfect crust.

Step 5: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop

1. Move the seared pork chops to the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Add butter and allow it to melt, then cook the chops, flipping occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 130°F.

Step 6: Rest and serve

1. Remove the pork chops from the grill when they are 15°F below your desired final doneness (e.g., 145°F for medium).
2. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips

• For maximum flavor, marinate the pork chops overnight.
• Pat the pork chops dry before grilling to ensure a perfect sear.
• Use the flat cooktop to grill vegetables alongside your chops for a complete meal.
• Adjust grilling zones based on heat intensity—closer to the center for higher temperatures.

Variations

1. Smoky Bourbon Chops: Replace Irish whiskey with bourbon and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade.
2. Honey Mustard Glazed Chops: Add 2 tbsp of honey to the marinade for a sweet, caramelized crust.
3. Garlic Herb Chops: Swap Worcestershire sauce for balsamic vinegar and add rosemary instead of thyme.
4. Spicy Maple Chops: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup and add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes.
5. Apple Cider Chops: Substitute whiskey with apple cider and include a dash of cinnamon for a sweet-savory twist.

Conclusion

Grilling pork chops on the Arteflame ensures a perfect sear and juicy, tender meat. The high-heat center grill grate locks in the juices, while the griddle cooktop allows for even cooking. With these whiskey-marinated Irish pork chops, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home!

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus or Brussels sprouts
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Irish soda bread
• A glass of Irish whiskey or a pint of Guinness