Indulge your taste buds with a culinary adventure that combines the savory allure of Asian flavors with the sweet, smoky essence of grilled fruit. Our Five Spice Pork Chops with Grilled Plums is not just a meal; it's an experience that will elevate your weeknight dinners into something extraordinary! With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this dish promises succulent pork chops infused with aromatic five spice powder, perfectly paired with caramelized plums that add a delightful twist. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have them asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 tablespoon five spice powder
- 2 ripe plums, halved
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine five spice powder, soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper to create a marinade. Whisk ingredients until well blended.
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better seasoning adherence and caramelization.
- Generously coat each pork chop with the prepared marinade, ensuring all sides are evenly covered. Let marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat grill or heavy skillet to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If using a skillet, add a small amount of cooking oil.
- Place marinated pork chops on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- During the last 3 minutes of cooking, place plum halves cut-side down on the grill or in the skillet to caramelize and develop grill marks.
- Remove pork chops and plums from heat. Let pork chops rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Plate pork chops and arrange grilled plum halves alongside. Optionally, drizzle any remaining marinade over the dish.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Take the pork chops out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to ensure they reach room temperature. This step is crucial for even cooking and achieving that perfect sear.
- Marinade Magic: Allow the pork chops to marinate for at least 10 minutes. This not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making every bite juicy and delicious.
- Perfect Heat: Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat (around 400°F). A hot cooking surface is key to achieving a nice crust on the pork chops while keeping the inside tender.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. They should reach 145°F for optimal juiciness and safety.
- Caramelize the Plums: Don’t skip the step of grilling the plums! This adds a wonderful smoky flavor and enhances their sweetness, making them the perfect accompaniment to the savory pork.
- Rest for Flavor: After cooking, let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish your dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions. Not only does it add color, but it also elevates the overall flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
