Smoked Norwegian Pork Chops with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

Introduction

There is something primal and deeply satisfying about the combination of wood fire and high-quality meat. This Norwegian-inspired dish takes the humble pork chop and elevates it into a masterpiece of Nordic flavors, perfectly suited for the Arteflame grill. The recipe marries the rich, smoky char achieved on the center grill grate with the gentle, consistent heat of the flat-top plancha, ensuring the meat remains juicy and tender. The star of the show, however, is the zesty horseradish cream—a staple in Scandinavian cuisine that cuts through the richness of the pork with a cooling yet spicy bite. Whether you are cooking for a summer gathering or a cozy winter evening by the fire, this dish brings a touch of rugged elegance to your outdoor kitchen. It is not just about grilling; it is about embracing the elements and creating a meal that warms the soul.

Ingredients

The Meat

• 4 thick-cut bone-in pork chops (at least 1.5 inches thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for authentic Nordic flavor)

The Horseradish Cream

• 1 cup crème fraîche or full-fat sour cream
• 3 tablespoons freshly grated horseradish (or prepared horseradish, drained)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Start your fire in the Arteflame grill about 30 to 45 minutes before you plan to cook.
2. Build a pyramid of wood in the center to create a bed of hot coals.
3. Ensure the flat-top griddle plate reaches a searing temperature, with the center being the hottest and the outer edges providing a medium heat zone.
4. Wipe down the cooktop with a lightly oiled rag to clean and season the surface.

Step 2: Season the Pork

1. Pat the pork chops completely dry with paper towels to ensure a good crust.
2. Rub the chops generously with olive oil or melted butter.
3. Season both sides heavily with coarse sea salt, cracked black pepper, and the optional caraway seeds.
4. Let the meat sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while the grill heats up.

Step 3: Sear the Meat

1. Place the pork chops directly on the center grill grate (the hottest part) to get a serious sear.
2. Sear for about 2–3 minutes per side until distinct grill marks appear and a golden-brown crust forms.
3. Be careful of flare-ups; the Arteflame design helps manage this, but keep an eye on the fat rendering.

Step 4: Finish on the Flat Top

1. Move the pork chops from the center grate onto the flat steel cooktop.
2. Position them in a medium-heat zone to allow them to cook through without burning the exterior.
3. Cook for another 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
4. While the chops finish, you can toast a few lemon slices on the grill next to the meat for a garnish.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest on a warm plate for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
2. While the meat rests, mix the crème fraîche, horseradish, mustard, dill, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
3. Plate the pork chops and top generously with the horseradish cream sauce.

Tips

Mastering the Arteflame requires understanding its heat zones. For this recipe, the transition from the center grate to the flat top is crucial. If your pork chops are exceptionally thick, you can even stand them up on the fat cap on the flat top to render the fat slowly, creating a crispy edge that is incredibly flavorful. Always use a digital meat thermometer; pork is best enjoyed when it is just blushed with pink in the center, ensuring it stays moist. If you cannot find fresh horseradish, prepared horseradish works well, but be sure to drain any excess vinegar liquid so your sauce doesn't become runny. Finally, adding the sauce only after the meat has come off the grill prevents the dairy from splitting due to the high heat, keeping the texture velvety and cool against the hot, smoky meat.

Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable to suit different palates or seasonal availability. While the classic Norwegian style relies on the simplicity of salt, pepper, and horseradish, you can easily tweak the flavor profile. Here are a few ways to mix it up:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili to the horseradish cream for extra heat.
• Herb Crusted: Before searing, press fresh thyme and rosemary into the pork chops for a fragrant, earthy aroma.
• Sweet & Savory: Glaze the pork chops with a little maple syrup or honey during the last minute of cooking on the flat top.
• Mustard Lover's: Swap the horseradish cream for a warm grain mustard and heavy cream reduction prepared in a cast-iron skillet on the grill.
• The Beef Swap: This method and sauce work exceptionally well with a ribeye steak if you prefer beef over pork.

Best pairings

To create a complete Norwegian-inspired feast, the sides should be as rustic and hearty as the main course. The smokiness of the pork pairs beautifully with root vegetables that can be roasted right alongside the meat on the Arteflame’s flat top. Potatoes are a non-negotiable addition; slice them thin and fry them in butter on the griddle until crispy. For a lighter contrast, grilled asparagus or charred green beans with lemon zest add a fresh snap to the plate. In terms of beverages, a crisp, cold pilsner or a pale ale cuts through the richness of the cream sauce. For a truly authentic touch, serve a small glass of aquavit, a Scandinavian spirit flavored with caraway and dill, which complements the seasoning on the pork perfectly.

Conclusion

This Norwegian Horseradish Smoked Pork Chop recipe is a testament to the versatility of the Arteflame grill. It combines high-heat searing with controlled, flat-top roasting to produce meat that is succulent and full of character. The cool, sharp horseradish sauce provides the perfect counterpoint to the hot, savory pork, creating a bite that is balanced and complex. Whether you are an experienced pitmaster or new to wood-fired cooking, this dish is approachable yet impressive. Gather your friends around the fire, pour a drink, and enjoy the process of cooking as much as the meal itself. After all, the best meals are the ones cooked outside, seasoned with fresh air and good company.