Arteflame Grilled Pork Chops with a Smoky Marinade

Enhance the flavor of your pork chops with this rich, smoky marinade, perfect for grilling on the Arteflame. This blend of ingredients not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a delicious combination of flavors, ensuring juicy, succulent chops every time.

Marinade Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a smoky flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme

For Grilling:

• 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick)
• Arteflame Grill
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. If you like, add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.

2. Marinate the Pork Chops

Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a more intense flavor.

3. Preheat the Arteflame Grill

Fire up your Arteflame Grill, ensuring it reaches an even, hot cooking surface. This will help you achieve the perfect sear on your pork chops.

4. Grill the Pork Chops

Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Discard any remaining marinade.

Place the pork chops on the grill grate to achieve a beautiful sear. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning only once to maintain the sear. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 140°F for medium doneness.

Tip: Remove the pork chops promptly when they reach 140°F as they will continue to cook while resting.

5. Rest and Serve

Transfer the grilled pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Serve the pork chops with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Why This Marinade Works:

The combination of soy sauce and balsamic vinegar not only adds depth of flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Honey or brown sugar balances the acidity and helps create a beautiful caramelization on the grill. Smoked paprika and fresh herbs introduce a hint of smokiness and freshness, perfectly complementing the natural flavors of the pork.

Alternatives and Variations:

1. Citrus-Herb Marinade

Replace balsamic vinegar with lemon or orange juice, and add fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage for a bright, aromatic flavor.

2. Asian-Inspired Marinade

Substitute the balsamic vinegar with rice vinegar, and add soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger for an Asian twist.

3. Honey Mustard Marinade

Increase the Dijon mustard and add honey for a sweet and tangy flavor profile.

4. Spicy Marinade

Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick of heat.

5. Maple-Bourbon Marinade

Swap honey for maple syrup and add a splash of bourbon for a sweet and smoky flavor.

Best Pairings:

• Side Dish: Serve with grilled asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a creamy coleslaw.
• Drink: Pair with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay, or a cold craft beer.
• Dessert: Finish with a light dessert like apple crumble, grilled peaches, or a vanilla bean panna cotta.

These marinated and grilled pork chops on the Arteflame Grill are guaranteed to impress with their juicy, flavorful perfection. Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a meal that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your guests.