Minnesota Paul Bunyan Pork Chops on the Arteflame

Introduction

These Paul Bunyan Pork Chops are thick-cut, juicy, and bursting with smoky maple flavor. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, they lock in incredible juices with a restaurant-quality sear before finishing gently on the flat cooktop. This method ensures moist, tender pork chops every time. If you're looking for the best grilled pork chops in Minnesota, this is it!

Ingredients

• 4 thick-cut bone-in pork chops
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light the paper.
3. Let the fire burn and heat the grill for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Marinate the Pork Chops

1. In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Coat the pork chops evenly with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Place the pork chops on the center grill grate of the Arteflame to sear for about 2 minutes per side.
2. Flip them once you see a deep golden crust forming.

Step 4: Finish on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the seared pork chops to the cooler flat cooktop.
2. Add a tablespoon of butter under each chop for extra richness.
3. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.

Step 5: Rest the Chops

1. Remove from the grill when the internal temperature is 140°F (it will rise to 145°F while resting).
2. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Use real maple syrup for the best flavor.
• Resting meat is essential to keep it juicy.
• Monitor internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
• Moving seared meat onto the flat griddle prevents overcooking.

Variations

1. Applewood Smoked: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar and a pinch of cinnamon to the marinade.
2. Sweet & Spicy: Mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a kick.
3. Herb Infused: Add finely chopped rosemary and thyme for an aromatic twist.
4. Bourbon Maple: Replace soy sauce with bourbon for a richer depth of flavor.
5. Garlic Butter: Melt extra butter with minced garlic and drizzle over the finished chops.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with garlic butter
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Classic coleslaw
• A glass of Minnesota craft beer

Conclusion

Perfectly grilled pork chops with incredible smoky maple flavor—the Arteflame does it best! Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and enjoy a slice of Minnesota grilling heaven.