Tuscan Grilled Pork Chops – Juicy Italian Perfection

Introduction

These Tuscan Grilled Pork Chops are infused with bold Italian flavors and seared to juicy perfection on the Arteflame grill. Marinated with rosemary, garlic, and butter, they deliver an unbeatable combination of tenderness and taste. Sear them at 1,000°F on the center grill grate to lock in their juices, then finish cooking them to desired doneness on the flat cooktop. With the Arteflame’s efficient heat zones, you can grill your sides at the same time for an easy, flavorful meal. Let’s fire up the grill and start cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the oil-soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to build for approximately 20 minutes until the grill is hot and ready.

Step 2: Marinate the Pork Chops

1. In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar.
2. Rub the marinade all over the pork chops and let them rest for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Place the pork chops on the center grill grate, searing each side for about 1-2 minutes to develop a flavorful crust.
2. Once seared, move the chops to the flat cooktop area to finish cooking.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

1. Continue cooking the pork chops on the flat cooktop until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F (they will rise to 145°F after resting).
2. Remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Always remove the pork chops from the grill 15°F before your desired doneness, as they continue cooking after removal.
• Use firewood for an authentic smoke-kissed flavor.
• Grill your vegetables alongside the pork chops for an easy one-grill meal.
• Let the marinade sit for longer (up to 12 hours) for even more flavor penetration.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect internal cooking.

Variations

1. Lemon Herb Pork Chops: Add extra lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon at the end for a bright, citrusy flavor.
2. Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and minced garlic on the chops before grilling.
3. Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops: Brush with balsamic reduction during the last few minutes of grilling.
4. Spicy Italian Pork Chops: Add more red pepper flakes and a pinch of chili powder for extra heat.
5. Mediterranean Style Pork Chops: Serve with olives, feta, and grilled tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.

Conclusion

Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, these Tuscan Pork Chops deliver juicy, herb-infused flavors with a steakhouse-quality sear. By searing them on the center grate first and finishing on the flat cooktop, you'll achieve the perfect balance of caramelization and tenderness. Try different variations to keep this dish exciting and experiment with sides grilled right on the Arteflame. Fire up your grill and enjoy!

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with lemon zest
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Fresh arugula salad with balsamic dressing
• Grilled ciabatta bread
• A glass of full-bodied Chianti wine