Savor the tantalizing blend of sweet pineapple and savory pork with our Pineapple Pork Chops recipe! This delightful dish brings together juicy pork chops marinated in a flavorful mixture of pineapple, soy sauce, and spices for a meal that’s bursting with tropical flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of the islands, these Pineapple Pork Chops are sure to hit the spot. Join us as we explore the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this mouthwatering recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops, 4 oz each
- 1 (8 oz) can (12 count) pineapple slices, drained
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, garlic powder, rice vinegar, water, brown sugar, and ground ginger until well combined.
- Marinate the Pork Chops:
- Place the boneless pork chops in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are evenly coated. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat and Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Pork Chops and Pineapple:
- Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the pork chops and pineapple slices on the preheated grill. Grill the pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), turning once.
- Grill the pineapple slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly caramelized and heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the pork chops and pineapple slices from the grill. Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the grilled pork chops with the grilled pineapple slices on top. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this tropical-inspired dish!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Oven-Baked Option: If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the marinated pork chops and pineapple slices in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the pineapple is caramelized.
- Hawaiian Twist: Add a tropical touch to this recipe by sprinkling shredded coconut over the grilled pork chops and pineapple slices before serving. The coconut adds a deliciously sweet and nutty flavor to the dish.
- Glazed Finish: For an extra burst of flavor, brush the grilled pork chops and pineapple slices with a mixture of honey and lime juice during the last few minutes of grilling.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the carb content. Serve the grilled pork chops with a side of cauliflower rice or grilled vegetables for a keto-friendly meal.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto substitutions mentioned above and ensure that all ingredients used are low in carbohydrates. Adjust the portion sizes of the pineapple slices to fit your low-carb macros.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use fresh pineapple slices if they’re in season. Simply slice the fresh pineapple into rings and use them in place of the canned pineapple slices.
Q: Can I make this recipe with bone-in pork chops? A: Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used instead of boneless pork chops. Just adjust the grilling time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
Q: Can I prepare the marinade in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, simply pour the marinade over the pork chops and proceed with the recipe.
Q: Can I grill the pork chops and pineapple indoors on a grill pan? A: Absolutely! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop to grill the pork chops and pineapple slices indoors.
Transport your taste buds to the tropics with our mouthwatering Pineapple Pork Chops recipe! With its irresistible combination of juicy pork chops, caramelized pineapple, and flavorful marinade, this dish is a surefire way to add a taste of paradise to any meal. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer cookout or simply looking to bring a taste of the islands to your dinner table, these Pineapple Pork Chops are guaranteed to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a culinary journey to the sunny shores of Hawaii with this sweet and savory delight!
