Korean Grilled Black Garlic Pork Chops

Introduction

These Korean Grilled Black Garlic Pork Chops are packed with umami flavors and grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. The black garlic marinade enhances the pork's natural sweetness, while the high-heat sear locks in the juices, creating a steakhouse-quality crust. Using the reverse sear method on the Arteflame ensures every bite is juicy, tender, and bursting with deep, smoky flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 4 cloves black garlic, mashed into a paste
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the marinade

1. In a bowl, mix the black garlic paste, soy sauce, gochujang, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and green onions.
2. Season the pork chops with salt and black pepper.
3. Coat the pork chops with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins inside the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the paper and let the fire build up.
4. Wait about 20 minutes until the grill reaches high searing temperature.

Step 3: Sear the pork chops

1. Melt butter on the center grill grate.
2. Place the marinated pork chops directly on the center grill grate and sear for 2 minutes per side to develop a caramelized crust.

Step 4: Finish on the cooktop

1. Move the pork chops to the Arteflame's outer flat cooktop.
2. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (for medium doneness).
3. Remove from the grill when the internal temperature is 15°F below the desired doneness, as they will continue to cook off the heat.

Step 5: Rest and serve

1. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with additional chopped green onions.
3. Enjoy with your favorite Korean-inspired side dishes.

Tips

• For extra smoky flavor, use hardwood like oak or hickory in your Arteflame grill.
• Bringing your pork chops to room temperature before grilling ensures even cooking.
• Resting the meat is crucial to retain juices and enhance tenderness.

Variations

1. Spicy Korean Style: Add more gochujang and a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
2. Sweet & Savory: Increase honey and add a splash of pineapple juice for a sweeter marinade.
3. Garlic-Lover’s Edition: Double the black garlic and add roasted garlic paste for extra depth.
4. Soy Glazed: Reduce the soy sauce with brown sugar for a rich, caramelized glaze.
5. Citrus Infused: Include fresh orange zest and juice to bring a bright, citrusy balance.

Best pairings

• Kimchi for a tangy, spicy contrast
• Grilled vegetables on the Arteflame cooktop
• Steamed rice or Korean glass noodles
• A cold Korean beer or soju

Conclusion

Perfectly seared and packed with layers of umami, these Korean Grilled Black Garlic Pork Chops are the ultimate way to enjoy grilled pork. By using the high heat of the Arteflame grill and the reverse sear method, you lock in every bit of flavor and juiciness. Try this recipe for your next backyard BBQ, and impress your guests with the deep, rich taste of black garlic and authentic Korean flavors.