Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a Japanese-inspired culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! These Ponzu Grilled Pork Chops are not just a meal, they're a sensory journey that combines the tangy brightness of ponzu sauce with perfectly grilled, juicy pork chops. Whether you're a grill master or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/4 cup ponzu sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, pressing the seasonings gently into the meat.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F) to create perfect grill marks and seal in the juices.
- Brush the pork chops with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Place the pork chops on the hot grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side, without moving them, to develop a nice caramelized crust.
- Flip the pork chops and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the second side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium doneness.
- During the last minute of cooking, brush the pork chops with ponzu sauce to infuse flavor and create a glossy finish.
- Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 5-7 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
- Drizzle additional ponzu sauce over the pork chops before serving for extra flavor and brightness.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Moisture Management: Pat the pork chops completely dry before seasoning. This crucial step helps create that irresistible golden-brown crust.
- Don't Overcrowd the Grill: Cook pork chops in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and prevent steaming instead of searing.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F, which guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat meat.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow your grilled pork chops to rest for 5-7 minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
- Ponzu Sauce Timing: Apply the ponzu sauce during the last minute of grilling to prevent burning and maximize flavor infusion.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 288kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
