Citrus-Infused Grilled Pork Chops with Sage Glaze
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Citrus-Infused Grilled Pork Chops with Sage Glaze. Tender pork chops are marinated in a delightful mixture of zesty orange marmalade, aromatic fresh sage, and savory soy sauce, perfectly complemented by minced garlic. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also showcases a balance of sweet and savory that is sure to impress at your next family gathering or casual barbecue. With an optional splash of orange liqueur, the glaze takes on an elevated depth, making every bite a delectable experience. Perfectly grilled and finished with a warm glaze, these pork chops are paired beautifully with seasonal vegetables or a light salad.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Chops
4 (Trimmed, bone-in or boneless as preferred)
Orange Marmalade
1/3 cup (Smooth)
Fresh Sage
1 tablespoon (Chopped)
Soy Sauce
2 tablespoons (Low sodium preferred)
Garlic
1 clove (Minced)
Orange Liqueur (Grand Marnier)
2 tablespoons (Optional)
Salt
to taste (N/A)
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
to taste (N/A)
Instructions
1
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, chopped sage, soy sauce, minced garlic, Grand Marnier (if using), and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
2
Place the pork chops in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top, ensuring the chops are evenly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off, and discard the marinade.
4
Grill the pork chops over medium-high heat for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are cooked through. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chops.
5
While the pork chops are grilling, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil and then remove from heat to create a warm glaze.
6
Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. To serve, spoon the warm glaze over the grilled pork chops and garnish with fresh sage leaves for an added touch of elegance.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Citrus-Infused Grilled Pork Chops with Sage Glaze?
This is a main dish featuring tender pork chops marinated in orange marmalade, fresh sage, soy sauce, and garlic, then grilled and finished with a warm citrus glaze.
How long should I marinate the pork chops?
You should marinate the pork chops in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
What is the recommended internal temperature for the pork?
The pork chops should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius).
How many pork chops does this recipe serve?
The recipe is designed for 4 pork chops, typically serving 4 people.
What type of orange marmalade should I use?
A smooth orange marmalade is recommended for the best texture in both the marinade and the glaze.
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops based on your personal preference.
Is the orange liqueur mandatory?
No, the orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier) is optional, but it adds an elevated depth to the glaze.
What type of soy sauce is best?
Low sodium soy sauce is preferred to control the saltiness of the dish.
How do I prepare the glaze?
Pour the reserved marinade into a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and then remove from heat to create a warm glaze.
Why must I boil the marinade before using it as a glaze?
Boiling the marinade is a necessary safety step to kill any bacteria after it has been in contact with raw meat, and it also thickens the mixture.
How long do I grill the pork chops?
Grill the pork chops for approximately 6 to 8 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
What is the best way to garnish this dish?
Garnish the finished pork chops with fresh sage leaves for an added touch of elegance.
Should the pork chops rest after cooking?
Yes, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after removing them from the grill to ensure they stay juicy.
Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?
While fresh sage is recommended for its aromatic qualities, you can use dried sage, but reduce the amount as it is more concentrated.
What grill temperature is required?
The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat for optimal searing and cooking.
What sides go well with these pork chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with seasonal vegetables or a light garden salad.
How do I ensure the pork chops are evenly coated?
Place the pork chops in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, turning to coat.
What flavors characterize this recipe?
The dish is characterized by a balance of sweet orange, savory soy, and aromatic earthy sage.
Is this recipe suitable for a barbecue?
Yes, it is specifically tagged for BBQ and is perfect for outdoor grilling.
What is the preparation for the garlic?
The garlic should be finely minced before being added to the marinade mixture.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients: pork chops, orange marmalade, fresh sage, soy sauce, garlic, orange liqueur, salt, and pepper.
Can I substitute the pork with another meat?
While designed for pork, this citrus-sage marinade would also work well with chicken breasts.
Is this recipe considered quick and easy?
Yes, with a short marinating time and quick grilling process, it is tagged as a quick and easy main dish.
What should I do with the marinade once the chops are on the grill?
Keep the marinade to boil in a saucepan for the glaze; do not discard it if you want the extra flavor.
Can I use a stovetop instead of a grill?
Yes, you can sear these in a grill pan or heavy skillet on the stovetop if an outdoor grill is not available.
Is the salt and pepper measurement specific?
The recipe suggests adding salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
What does the sage add to the recipe?
Sage provides an earthy, aromatic quality that balances the sweetness of the orange marmalade.
Should I trim the pork chops?
The recipe suggests the pork chops should be trimmed of excess fat before marinating.
Does the thickness of the meat matter?
Yes, cooking times may vary based on thickness, which is why using a thermometer to reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended.
Can this recipe be made for a large crowd?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the marinade and ingredients for larger gatherings or family events.