Georgia Peach Bourbon BBQ Pork Chops on the Grill
Introduction
These Georgia Peach Bourbon BBQ Pork Chops are sweet, smoky, and perfectly grilled to juicy perfection on the Arteflame. Searing the pork chops at over 1,000°F on the center grill grate locks in the juices, while slow-finishing on the flat cooktop ensures tender, flavorful chops. The homemade peach bourbon BBQ sauce caramelizes beautifully, creating a mouthwatering dish perfect for your next cookout.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
- 1 cup fresh peaches, chopped
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
- Stack firewood over the soaked napkins, then light the paper.
- Allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F and the outer cooktop is evenly heated.
Step 2: Make the Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce
- Place the peaches on the flat cooktop griddle and cook until soft.
- Mash the peaches with a spatula and mix in bourbon, ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer on the griddle, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops
- Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and black pepper.
- Place the pork chops on the center grill grate to sear for about 1-2 minutes per side until beautifully caramelized.
Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Griddle
- Move the pork chops to the flat cooktop griddle, applying a generous layer of peach bourbon BBQ sauce.
- Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 130°F for medium (or 145°F for well-done), flipping occasionally.
- Remove the pork chops from the grill when they are 15°F below the desired doneness, allowing carryover cooking to finish the job.
Tips
- Use fresh, ripe peaches for the best natural sweetness.
- Adjust the bourbon amount based on your preference for a stronger or milder flavor.
- Let the cooked pork chops rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Variations
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Spicy Peach BBQ: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat.
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Honey Bourbon Glaze: Replace brown sugar with honey for a sweeter, stickier texture.
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Smoky Chipotle: Blend in 1 tsp chipotle powder for a deep smoky flavor.
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Garlic Herb: Mix in 1 tbsp minced garlic and fresh thyme for a savory twist.
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Maple Bacon: Add 1/4 cup maple syrup and crumbled cooked bacon to the sauce.
Conclusion
Grilling these Peach Bourbon BBQ Pork Chops on the Arteflame results in a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Searing on the center grill grate enhances the flavors, while letting them finish on the griddle ensures they stay juicy. This Georgia classic will be a hit at any cookout!
Best Pairings
- Grilled corn on the cob with butter.
- Smoked sweet potatoes with cinnamon.
- Grilled asparagus with garlic butter.
- A glass of oaky bourbon or chilled peach iced tea.