Ultimate Pork Chops – If you’re looking to elevate your pork chop game. This Ultimate Pork Chops Recipe. Is exactly what you need. These chops are brined for maximum juiciness. Then rubbed with a flavorful spice blend. Before being grilled to perfection. The result is tender, juicy pork chops. With a smoky, savory crust. That will have everyone. Asking for seconds. With just a little prep time. And some patience. For the brining process. You can serve up a meal. That’s truly memorable.
The first time I made these Ultimate Pork Chops. I was determined. To find a way. To make pork chops. That were both flavorful and juicy—something my family would love. My husband. Who’s often skeptical. About pork chops being too dry. Was pleasantly surprised. By how tender. And flavorful these turned out. Our child even asked for seconds. Which is always a good sign! The combination of the brine. And the spice rub. Really makes these chops stand out. And now they’re a regular feature. On our dinner table.
What makes this Ultimate Pork Chops truly special?
What sets this Ultimate Pork Chops Recipe apart? Is the perfect combination of a simple brine. And a bold spice rub. The brine infuses the pork chops. With moisture and flavor. Ensuring they stay juicy. Even after grilling. The spice rub. With its blend of paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and more. Adds a rich, smoky flavor. That complements the natural taste of the pork. Grilling these chops. To an internal temperature of 145ºF. Keeps them tender. And perfectly cooked. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ. Or just want a special dinner. These pork chops. Are sure to impress.
What You Need To Make This Ultimate Pork Chops Recipe?
Kosher Salt: Kosher salt is the key. To a successful brine. Its coarse texture. Helps the pork absorb moisture. Leaving your chops juicy. And tender. Without this step. You’d miss out on the incredibly moist result. That makes these pork chops stand out.
Sugar: Adding sugar to the brine. Balances out the saltiness. But it also helps create a beautiful caramelization. When the pork chops hit the grill. That subtle sweetness. Enhances the smoky flavors of the grill.
Paprika: The star of the spice rub. Paprika adds a smoky, slightly sweet depth. That elevates the pork chops. It gives the crust. A beautiful color, too.
Cumin: This warm, earthy spice. Pairs wonderfully with paprika. Adding a subtle smoky flavor. That makes every bite more interesting.
Ground Mustard: Adds a slight tangy sharpness to the rub. Complementing the richness of the pork. And spices.
Chili Powder: Just the right amount of heat. To balance the savory. And smoky notes. Giving the pork a little kick. Without overwhelming it.
Steps To Make Ultimate Pork Chops:
Step 1: Create the Brine: Start by combining kosher salt, sugar, and water. In a large pan. Heat it over medium heat. Until the salt. And sugar dissolves completely. Once dissolved. Remove it from the heat. And toss in some ice cubes. This helps cool the brine quickly. So you can get those pork chops brining sooner. Rather than later.
Step 2: Brine the Pork Chops: Place your pork chops. In a large resealable plastic bag. And pour the cooled brine over them. Seal the bag. Ensuring the pork. Is fully submerged. Pop it into the fridge. And let the chops. Soak up all that flavorful goodness. For at least 8 hours. This step is worth the wait!
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Step 3: Prepare the Pork: Once the brining time is up. Rinse the pork chops. To remove any excess salt. Then pat them dry. Drying them well. Helps create that irresistible crust. Once they hit the grill.
Step 4: Make the Rub: In a small bowl. Mix together paprika, garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, ground mustard, black pepper, and chili powder. Now, generously sprinkle this spice rub. On both sides of the pork chops. Pressing it in so it sticks.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection: Preheat your grill. To medium-high heat. Lay the pork chops on the grill. And cook them. Until they reach an internal temperature of 145ºF. Flipping them halfway through. For even cooking. This should take. About 4 to 5 minutes per side. Depending on how thick your chops are.
Step 6: Let Them Rest: Once cooked. Let the pork chops rest. For a few minutes. Before slicing in. This helps the juices redistribute. Ensuring every bite. Is tender and juicy.
Tip:
To get the most out of this recipe. Don’t rush the brining process. Letting the pork chops brine. For a good 8 to 12 hours. Ensures that they stay juicy. And flavorful during cooking. Also, remember to dry the pork chops well after brining. This step is crucial. For achieving that beautifully caramelized, crispy crust. On the grill. If you’re short on time. You can brine them in the morning. And grill them by dinner. But don’t skip this step—it makes all the difference!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes. You can use boneless pork chops. But be aware that they may cook faster. Than bone-in chops. Keep a close eye. On the internal temperature. To avoid overcooking.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can also cook these pork chops. In a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop. Or in the oven. Just make sure to use a meat thermometer. To ensure they reach the proper internal temperature.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like a little extra heat. Consider adding more chili powder. Or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rub. You can also serve the chops. With a spicy BBQ sauce on the side.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Ultimate Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 c coarse kosher salt
- 1/4 c granulated sugar
- 2 c water
- 2 c ice cubes
- 4 bone-in pork chops 1 inch thick
For the Rub:
- 3 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Instructions
- In a large saucepan. Mix together the salt, sugar, and water. Heat the mixture. Over medium heat. Stirring occasionally. Until the salt. And sugar. Are fully dissolved. Once dissolved, remove the pan. From the heat. And add ice. To bring the brine down. To room temperature.
- Place the pork chops. In a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag. Then pour the cooled brine over them. Seal the bag tightly. And refrigerate. For 8 to 12 hours.
- After brining. Take the pork chops out of the bag. Rinse them under cold water. And pat them dry. With paper towels.
- In a small bowl. Mix together the ingredients. For the rub. Generously coat both sides of the pork chops. With the rub mixture.
- Preheat your grill. Then cook the pork chops. Until they reach. An internal temperature of 145ºF. Flipping them. Halfway through the cooking time.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
