Perfect Pork Marinade Recipe for Grilling on the Arteflame
Introduction
Marinating pork before grilling can take your dish from good to absolutely unforgettable. This marinade is designed to infuse your pork with rich, bold flavors like garlic, herbs, soy sauce, and a touch of citrus. Whether you're grilling pork chops, tenderloin, or ribs on the Arteflame, this marinade ensures your pork stays juicy and bursting with flavor. Thanks to the grill's searing power, you'll get that perfect caramelized crust while keeping the inside tender and moist.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Whisk well to combine the base of the marinade.
- Add in the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, fresh rosemary, thyme, lemon juice and zest, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Continue whisking until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 2: Marinate the Pork
- Place your pork cuts (pork chops, tenderloin, or ribs) in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
Step 3: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
Prepare your Arteflame grill by lighting it the usual way: soak three paper towels with vegetable oil, place them in the center, and stack your firewood on top. Light the grill and wait for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is evenly heated.
Step 4: Grill the Pork
- Remove the pork from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the used marinade.
- Sear the pork on the center grill grate of the Arteflame, allowing the high heat to develop a flavorful crust (about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the pork).
- Move the pork to the flat cooktop to finish cooking. Use the hotter section near the center for faster cooking, or the cooler outer areas for slower cooking and more control. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium-rare or your desired doneness.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Remove the pork from the grill when it's about 15°F below your target temperature, as it will continue cooking while resting.
- Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
Pro Tip:
For extra caramelization, brush the pork with a bit of honey or brown sugar during the last minute of grilling.
Variations
- Spicy Citrus Marinade – Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes and swap lemon for orange juice for a sweet and spicy flavor.
- Asian-Inspired Marinade – Replace the rosemary and thyme with 1 tablespoon of grated ginger and a splash of sesame oil for an Asian twist.
- Herb and Garlic Marinade – Use fresh oregano and basil in place of rosemary and thyme for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
- Maple Bourbon Marinade – Swap the honey with maple syrup and add 2 tablespoons of bourbon for a smoky, sweet finish.
- Zesty Lime Marinade – Substitute lemon with lime juice and add fresh cilantro for a bright, tangy flavor.
Best Pairings
- Grilled vegetable skewers with bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions.
- A side of grilled potatoes or a refreshing coleslaw.
- Pair with a light lager or dry white wine like Chardonnay.
Conclusion
This pork marinade is a must-try for your next grilling session on the Arteflame. Its balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness. With the added high-heat sear from the grill, your pork will be tender, juicy, and full of mouth-watering flavors. Try one of the variations to tailor it to your taste!
