Herb-Infused Smoked Pork Chops with Garlic and Rosemary
Discover a delightful twist on classic pork chops with our Herb-Infused Smoked Pork Chops featuring the aromatic flavors of fresh rosemary and pungent garlic. This recipe emphasizes the importance of marinating thick, juicy chops to enhance their flavor and tenderness. The low and slow smoking method creates an irresistible smoky aroma and ensures the meat remains moist and flavorful. Ideal for both novice smokers and seasoned chefs, these pork chops are perfect for any gathering or a cozy family dinner. Serve them with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
4
Servings
200
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Thick Boneless Pork Chops
4-6 (3/4-inch to 1-inch thick, trimmed)
Olive Oil
2 cups (extra virgin recommended)
Fresh Rosemary Leaves
3 tablespoons (finely chopped)
Salt
to taste
Fresh Ground Pepper
to taste
Minced Garlic
2 tablespoons
Instructions
1
Season the pork chops generously with salt and freshly ground pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.
2
In a large glass or plastic container, arrange the seasoned pork chops in a single layer.
3
In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, finely chopped rosemary leaves, and minced garlic. Mix well to create the marinade.
4
Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring they are fully coated. If necessary, prepare more marinade to cover the chops completely.
5
Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, turning the chops at least once to ensure even marination.
6
When ready to smoke, remove the chops from the marinade and allow excess oil to drip off. Gently wipe off most of the garlic and rosemary leaves to prevent burning.
7
Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
8
Place the marinated pork chops on the smoker grates, and smoke until they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit, about 1-1.5 hours depending on thickness.
9
Once done, remove from the smoker and let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
0.5g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Herb-Infused Smoked Pork Chops?
They are thick-cut pork chops marinated in a mixture of olive oil, fresh rosemary, and garlic, then smoked low and slow for maximum flavor.
What kind of pork chops should I use for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 4 to 6 thick boneless pork chops, ideally 3/4-inch to 1-inch thick.
How long should I marinate the pork chops?
For the best flavor and tenderness, the pork chops should be marinated in the refrigerator overnight.
What is the recommended smoker temperature?
Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit for this recipe.
What is the target internal temperature for the pork chops?
Smoke the pork chops until they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does the smoking process take?
Smoking typically takes between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on the thickness of the chops.
What are the main ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade consists of olive oil, finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves, and minced garlic.
Why should I wipe off the garlic and rosemary before smoking?
Gently wiping off excess garlic and rosemary leaves helps prevent them from burning during the smoking process.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for both novice smokers and seasoned chefs.
What are the nutritional values per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories, 10g of fat, 25g of protein, and 0.5g of carbohydrates.
How much rosemary is required?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves.
How much garlic is used in the marinade?
You will need 2 tablespoons of minced garlic.
Should I season the meat before marinating?
Yes, season the pork chops generously with salt and freshly ground pepper on both sides before adding the marinade.
Do I need to flip the chops while they are marinating?
Yes, it is recommended to turn the chops at least once while they are refrigerating to ensure even marination.
Should the pork chops be trimmed?
The recipe suggests using chops that are 3/4-inch to 1-inch thick and trimmed.
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
While the recipe specifies boneless, you can use bone-in chops, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Is extra virgin olive oil recommended?
Yes, extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the marinade base.
Why is it important to let the chops rest after smoking?
Letting the meat rest for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
What should I serve with these smoked pork chops?
They pair well with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
Fresh rosemary is preferred for its aromatic quality, but dried can be used in smaller quantities if fresh is unavailable.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, with only 0.5g of carbohydrates per serving, this recipe is very low-carb.
What equipment do I need for this recipe?
You will need a smoker, a large marinating container, and a bowl for mixing the marinade.
How much olive oil is used?
The recipe uses 2 cups of olive oil to ensure the pork chops are fully coated during the overnight marinade.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can mix the oil, rosemary, and garlic ahead of time before pouring it over the seasoned meat.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (pork, oil, herbs, spices), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Does this recipe contain any sugar?
No, there is no added sugar in this herb-infused smoked pork chop recipe.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients: pork chops, olive oil, rosemary, salt, pepper, and garlic.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
The garlic and rosemary marinade also works well with chicken or lamb.
What makes these pork chops 'herb-infused'?
The long marination process allows the rosemary and garlic flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.