BBQ Pork Chops

BBQ Pork Chops Recipe from New Zealand

Region / culture: New Zealand | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 15-20 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

BBQ Pork Chops are a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of pork with the smoky essence of barbecue. This recipe offers a versatile approach to marinating and cooking pork chops, providing options to suit various taste preferences. Whether you're a fan of traditional seasoning, the sweet tang of ginger ale, or the distinctive taste of Char Siu sauce, this recipe caters to all. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual backyard barbecue, these pork chops promise to be a hit.

History

The tradition of barbecuing pork chops dates back centuries, with variations found in cuisines around the world. The method of marinating meat and then cooking it over direct heat has evolved, but the essence remains the same. This recipe draws inspiration from both Western and Eastern culinary traditions, incorporating the Chinese Char Siu sauce, a testament to the global love for barbecued meats.

Ingredients

NZ pork chops

Marinade

Option 1 - equal parts lemon juice and Lee Kum Kee sesame oil, seasoning
Option 2 - equal parts Lee Kum Kee soy sauce and ginger ale
Option 3 - Simply coat chops with Lee Kum Kee Char Siu sauce
Fresh herbs
bbq sauce - Lee Kum Kee hoisin sauce

How to prepare

Place the chops into a sturdy plastic bag. Add the marinade and let it sit in the refrigerator for two hours or overnight.
Remove the chops from the marinade and place them on a pre-heated barbecue set to medium heat. Cook until the juices run clear when the meat is pierced (71°C).

Variations

For those looking to experiment, try marinating the pork chops in a mixture of pineapple juice and soy sauce for a tropical twist. Alternatively, a dry rub of spices can offer a more intense flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, allow the pork chops to marinate overnight. This not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Ensure your barbecue is pre-heated to a medium heat before cooking to avoid burning the marinade. To achieve perfect grill marks, resist the urge to move the chops too often. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the BBQ Pork Chops with a side of grilled vegetables and a light salad for a balanced meal. For a more filling option, pair them with roasted potatoes or a serving of rice.

Cooking Techniques

Besides barbecuing, these pork chops can also be cooked in a grill pan over the stove or baked in the oven. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the pork is cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a non-alcoholic alternative to ginger ale, use apple cider vinegar mixed with a touch of honey. If Char Siu sauce is not available, a mixture of hoisin sauce and honey can serve as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor penetration. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the cooked pork chops with fresh herbs and a drizzle of the reduced marinade for an appealing presentation. Serve on a wooden cutting board for a rustic look.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, fruity red wine or a crisp beer can complement the flavors of BBQ Pork Chops well. For non-alcoholic options, consider a ginger iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stove to maintain moisture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of BBQ Pork Chops, depending on the marinade and cut of the meat, typically contains between 200 to 350 calories. This makes it a suitable option for those managing their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

Depending on the marinade used, the carbohydrate content can vary. Option 2, using ginger ale, will have a higher carbohydrate content due to the sugars in the soda. Option 3, with Char Siu sauce, and option 1, with seasoning, will have lower carbohydrate content. On average, a serving of BBQ Pork Chops can contain between 5 to 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Pork chops are relatively lean, but the fat content can vary depending on the cut. On average, a serving of BBQ Pork Chops may contain about 10 to 20 grams of fat. Using a trim cut can reduce the fat content significantly.

Proteins

Pork is an excellent source of high-quality protein. A single serving of BBQ Pork Chops can provide approximately 22 to 25 grams of protein, making it a substantial part of a protein-rich diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Pork chops are rich in various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins (particularly B6 and B12), phosphorus, zinc, and iron. These nutrients play vital roles in energy production, muscle health, and overall bodily functions.

Alergens

The primary allergen concern in this recipe could be the hoisin sauce, which often contains soy and wheat. Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should opt for allergen-free alternatives or modify the marinade accordingly.

Summary

BBQ Pork Chops offer a balanced nutritional profile, with a good amount of protein, a moderate amount of fats, and varying levels of carbohydrates depending on the marinade. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious option for a meal.

Summary

This BBQ Pork Chops recipe offers a delicious and versatile option for any barbecue occasion. With detailed nutrition information, serving suggestions, and cooking tips, it's easy to customize the dish to suit dietary needs and taste preferences. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, these pork chops are sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a sunny afternoon in the summer of '65, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary at her farmhouse in the countryside. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of sizzling BBQ pork chops filled the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation.

Mary, a seasoned cook with a knack for creating delicious meals from scratch, greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. She knew that I was always eager to learn new recipes and expand my culinary skills, so she wasted no time in inviting me to watch her work her magic with the pork chops.

As I stood by her side, Mary explained the ingredients she used: thick-cut pork chops, a homemade BBQ sauce made with ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and a blend of spices, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce for that extra kick of flavor. She seasoned the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before brushing them with the tangy BBQ sauce.

Mary then fired up the grill and expertly cooked the pork chops to perfection, flipping them over at just the right moment to ensure they were juicy and tender. The tantalizing smell of the meat caramelizing on the grill made my stomach growl with hunger, and I couldn't wait to taste the end result.

When Mary finally plated the BBQ pork chops and served them alongside creamy mashed potatoes and buttery corn on the cob, I took my first bite with eager anticipation. The meat was succulent and bursting with smoky-sweet flavors, the perfect balance of savory and tangy that left me craving more.

After savoring every last bite of the delicious meal, I begged Mary to share her recipe with me. She chuckled and handed me a handwritten card with the ingredients and instructions, noting that it was a family recipe passed down through generations.

Over the years, I made the BBQ pork chops countless times, each time eliciting praise and admiration from my family and friends. I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different spices and marinades to create a dish that was uniquely mine.

One summer, while visiting my sister in the bustling city of New York, I decided to treat her and her friends to a homemade BBQ feast. I whipped up a batch of my famous BBQ pork chops, grilling them to perfection on her rooftop terrace as the city lights twinkled in the distance.

To my delight, the pork chops were a hit with everyone at the dinner party, and I found myself sharing the recipe with my sister's friends who were eager to recreate the dish for their own gatherings.

As the years passed, I continued to make the BBQ pork chops for special occasions and family gatherings, each time reminiscing about that sunny afternoon at Mary's farmhouse and the joy of discovering a recipe that had become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will enjoy making it as much as I have. May the savory-sweet flavors of the BBQ pork chops bring warmth and comfort to your table, just as they have for me and those I hold dear. Bon appétit!