Grilled Michigan Maple-Glazed Pork Chops

Introduction

These juicy Michigan maple-glazed pork chops are grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill. By searing the chops over 1,000°F, you lock in the juices before finishing them on the flat top for the perfect doneness. The subtle sweetness of real Michigan maple syrup combined with smoky firewood grilling makes this dish unbeatable.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 1/2 cup Michigan maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the grill to reach cooking temperature in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the maple glaze

1. In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
2. Set aside for marinating.

Step 3: Marinate the pork chops

1. Place the pork chops in a shallow dish and pour the maple glaze over them.
2. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, turning once to evenly coat.

Step 4: Sear the pork chops

1. Place the pork chops on the center grill grate at 1,000°F.
2. Sear each side for about 2 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust.

Step 5: Finish cooking on the flat top

1. Move the seared pork chops to the Arteflame flat cooktop.
2. Slowly bring them up to 145°F internal temperature.
3. Baste with melted butter while cooking.

Step 6: Rest and serve

1. Remove the pork chops from the grill when they reach 130°F, as they will continue to cook off the heat.
2. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Remove the pork chops from the grill at 130°F to allow carryover cooking.
• Use real Michigan maple syrup for the best flavor.
• Baste with butter while cooking on the flat griddle for richer taste.
• Let the pork chops rest before slicing to retain the juices.

Variations

• Spicy Maple Pork Chops: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Herb Pork Chops: Replace smoked paprika with fresh chopped rosemary and thyme.
• Honey Mustard Pork Chops: Swap maple syrup for honey and add 1 tbsp whole grain mustard.
• Bourbon Maple Pork Chops: Add 1 tbsp of bourbon to the marinade for a smoky depth.
• Asian-Inspired Pork Chops: Add 1 tsp grated ginger and top with sesame seeds and green onions.

Best Pairings

• Grilled sweet potatoes with cinnamon butter
• Grilled asparagus with garlic butter
• Fire-roasted apples with caramel drizzle
• Grilled cornbread with honey butter

Conclusion

Cooking these Michigan maple-glazed pork chops on the Arteflame grill brings out the best flavors. With a perfect sear and gentle finishing on the cooktop, they stay tender and juicy in every bite. Try out different variations and enjoy an incredible grilling experience.