Discover the perfect recipe for marinated and grilled pork chops, seasoned with a blend of local spices for a mouthwatering taste. This easy-to-follow guide ensures tender, juicy pork chops with a savory flavor that's ideal for any meal. Learn how to prepare and grill pork chops that are sure to impress your family and friends. 

Ingredients:

- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 1/4 cup soy sauce

- 3 tablespoons honey

- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade:

  - In a bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, ground cumin, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.

Marinate the Pork Chops:

  - Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Preheat the Grill:

  - Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals and allow them to reach an even heat.

Grill the Pork Chops:

  - Remove the pork chops from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. Place the chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the chops are nicely charred.

Rest and Serve:

  - Transfer the grilled pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chops tender and flavorful.

Garnish (Optional):

  - Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

This recipe delivers perfectly marinated and grilled pork chops with a delightful blend of spices. Perfect for any occasion, these chops are sure to be a hit at your next meal!

Nutritional values 

Here’s the nutritional information and benefits for the ingredients used in your pork chop recipe::

4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)

  - Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per chop (depends on the cut and fat content)

  - Protein: 23g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Fat: 25g

Benefits:

  - High in protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

  - Provides important vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins and iron.

1/4 cup olive oil

  - Calories: 480 kcal

  - Fat: 54g (mostly monounsaturated fats)

Benefits:

  - Adds healthy fats that can support heart health.

  - Enhances flavor and helps with cooking.

1/4 cup soy sauce

  - Calories: 30 kcal

  - Sodium: Approximately 1,000mg

Benefits:

  - Adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.

  - Contains sodium, which should be used in moderation.

3 tablespoons honey

  - Calories: 180 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 49g

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Adds natural sweetness and can enhance flavor.

  - Contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Adds a tangy flavor and may support digestion.

  - Contains acetic acid, which may have metabolic benefits.

3 cloves garlic, minced

  - Calories: 8 kcal per clove

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Protein: 0.4g

Benefits:

  - Boosts the immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties.

  - Adds robust flavor to the dish.

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - Adds a smoky flavor and rich color.

  - Contains antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory properties.

1 teaspoon dried thyme

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - Contains compounds with antimicrobial properties.

  - Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - Adds a spicy kick and may aid digestion.

  - Contains piperine, which can enhance nutrient absorption.

1/2 teaspoon salt

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Sodium: Approximately 1,150mg

Benefits:

  - Enhances overall flavor but should be used in moderation.

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - Adds a warm, earthy flavor.

  - Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

  - Adds heat and flavor.

  - Capsaicin may boost metabolism and have pain-relief properties.

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and satisfying dish with a balanced mix of sweet, savory, and spicy elements.