Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into a tropical flavor explosion! These Cuban Mojo Grilled Pork Chops are not just a meal; they're a passport to the sun-drenched streets of Havana, where citrusy marinades and bold spices reign supreme. With a perfect balance of tangy orange and lime juices, aromatic garlic, and a hint of cumin, these pork chops promise to deliver a dining experience that will make your taste buds dance and your dinner guests beg for the recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place pork chops in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each chop is completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling to bring them to room temperature, which helps ensure even cooking.
- Preheat outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F).
- Remove pork chops from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard remaining marinade.
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels to promote better grill marks and caramelization.
- Grill pork chops for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium doneness.
- Let pork chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro or lime wedges.
Tips
- Marination is Key: For maximum flavor, let the pork chops marinate overnight. The longer they sit in the citrus bath, the more tender and flavorful they'll become.
- Temperature Matters: Always let your pork chops come to room temperature before grilling. This ensures even cooking and prevents tough, dry meat.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Grill Marks: Use paper towels to remove excess marinade before grilling. This helps achieve those beautiful caramelized grill marks and prevents steaming.
- Don't Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove the pork chops at 145°F for a juicy, perfectly cooked result.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the meat to rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
- Garnish Creatively: Enhance the presentation and flavor with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of additional cumin for an extra flavor boost.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 9g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 23mg
