Idaho Huckleberry-Glazed Pork Chops on the Grill

Introduction

These Idaho huckleberry-glazed pork chops are seared to perfection on the Arteflame grill, locking in juicy flavors before being finished with a sweet and tart huckleberry glaze. The flat top griddle ensures even cooking without burning, making this dish irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen Idaho huckleberries
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to build.
4. Wait about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F and the flat cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Season the pork chops with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. In a bowl, mix huckleberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and thyme.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Place the pork chops on the center grill grate and sear for about 90 seconds per side.
2. Move them to the flat cooktop to continue cooking until they reach 135°F (they will continue cooking after removal).
3. Remove the chops from the grill when they hit 125°F internal temperature.

Step 4: Make the Huckleberry Glaze

1. On the flat cooktop, melt butter.
2. Add the huckleberry mixture and cook, stirring, until the huckleberries burst and the glaze thickens (about 5 minutes).

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Brush the pork chops with the huckleberry glaze.
2. Let the chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
3. Garnish with additional thyme and serve.

Tips

• For the juiciest pork chops, remove them from the grill when they are 15°F below your desired internal temperature.
• Letting the meat rest after grilling enhances moisture retention.
• Use butter instead of oil for better flavor on the griddle.
• Adjust the heat by moving the pork chops to different heat zones on the Arteflame’s flat griddle cooktop.
• Serve with grilled vegetables cooked alongside the chops for a complete meal.

Variations

• Maple-Bourbon Glaze: Replace honey with maple syrup and add a splash of bourbon for a richer flavor.
• Spicy Jalapeño Huckleberry: Add finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Butter Glaze: Incorporate minced garlic into the glaze and double the butter for extra richness.
• Orange-Honey Huckleberry: Add fresh orange zest and juice for a citrusy twist.
• Savory Rosemary Glaze: Use rosemary instead of thyme for an earthier flavor.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus or Brussels sprouts cooked on the flat cooktop
• Roasted sweet potatoes or mashed butternut squash
• A glass of full-bodied red wine like Zinfandel
• Rustic sourdough bread toasted on the Arteflame griddle

Conclusion

Grilling Idaho huckleberry-glazed pork chops on the Arteflame grill guarantees an experience full of rich, smoky flavors and perfect caramelization. Whether you stick to the original recipe or explore the variations, these chops will become a family favorite!