Description
Succulent pork chops from Mexico bring bold, zesty flavors to dinner tables. Spicy marinades and quick grilling techniques elevate these juicy cuts you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pork chops (bone-in, 1-inch thick)
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups ice
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Create a flavor-enhancing brine by dissolving kosher salt and granulated sugar in water over medium heat, stirring until completely integrated.
- Remove the pan from heat and rapidly cool the brine by adding ice, bringing the liquid to room temperature.
- Transfer the cooled brine into a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag, carefully submerging the pork chops and ensuring complete coverage.
- Refrigerate the sealed bag for 8-12 hours, allowing the meat to absorb the seasoned liquid and become tender.
- After brining, remove the pork chops and thoroughly rinse under cold water to eliminate excess salt.
- Gently pat the meat dry using paper towels, creating a surface perfect for spice absorption.
- Craft a robust spice rub by blending selected seasonings, then generously coat both sides of each pork chop.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, creating optimal cooking conditions for caramelization and flavor development.
- Grill the seasoned pork chops, monitoring internal temperature with a meat thermometer until reaching 145ºF, which ensures juicy, perfectly cooked meat.
- Allow the grilled pork chops to rest for a few minutes before serving, enabling juices to redistribute and enhance overall tenderness.
Notes
- Customize the brine by adding aromatic herbs like rosemary or thyme to infuse extra flavor into the pork chops during the brining process.
- For a low-sodium diet, reduce the salt quantity and substitute with alternative seasonings like herbs or citrus zest to maintain moisture and taste.
- Consider using alternative brining liquids like apple juice or beer to create unique flavor profiles that complement the pork’s natural taste.
- Experiment with different spice rub combinations like smoked paprika, cumin, or brown sugar to add depth and personalize the recipe according to individual preferences.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Brining
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 4800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg