Spicy Maple-Glazed Grilled Pork Cutlets
Indulge in the savory delight of Spicy Maple-Glazed Grilled Pork Cutlets, where the sweet richness of maple syrup marries beautifully with smoky chipotle and fresh thyme. This quick and easy recipe transforms plain pork cutlets into a mouthwatering feast, perfect for summer barbecues or a weeknight dinner. The glaze, made from pantry staples, not only enhances the pork's natural juiciness but also adds a layer of complexity that your taste buds will love. Serve these flavorful cutlets with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
maple syrup
1/2 cup (none)
chicken stock
1/2 cup (none)
dried chipotle powder
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
fresh thyme
1 teaspoon (chopped)
cornstarch
2 teaspoons (none)
cold water
1 tablespoon (none)
pork cutlets
1 1/2 lbs (cut 3/4 inch thick)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
canola oil
1 tablespoon (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine maple syrup, chicken stock, dried chipotle powder, and chopped thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3
While the glaze is heating, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small jar. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until well combined and smooth.
4
Once the glaze is boiling, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while whisking continuously. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes, or until it thickens and becomes clear.
5
While the glaze is simmering, season the pork cutlets with salt and pepper. Brush each cutlet with a small amount of canola oil to prevent sticking.
6
Place the seasoned cutlets on the preheated grill and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, brushing with the maple chipotle glaze during grilling. Ensure the cutlets reach a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for pork.
7
Remove the cutlets from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving with remaining glaze.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Maple-Glazed Grilled Pork Cutlets?
They are a savory and sweet dish featuring pork cutlets grilled with a glaze made from maple syrup, chicken stock, chipotle powder, and fresh thyme.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What ingredients are used in the spicy maple glaze?
The glaze consists of maple syrup, chicken stock, dried chipotle powder, fresh chopped thyme, and a cornstarch slurry for thickening.
How do you thicken the glaze for the pork?
The glaze is thickened by whisking in a slurry made of 2 teaspoons of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water while the mixture is boiling.
What is the recommended grill temperature for this recipe?
You should preheat your grill to medium-high heat before cooking the pork cutlets.
How long should the pork cutlets be cooked on the grill?
The cutlets should be grilled for 3 to 5 minutes on each side.
What is the safe internal temperature for the pork?
Pork cutlets should reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius) to be considered safe for consumption.
Why is canola oil used in this recipe?
A small amount of canola oil is brushed onto the seasoned cutlets to prevent them from sticking to the grill grates.
Should the pork be seasoned before grilling?
Yes, you should season the pork cutlets with salt and pepper to taste before placing them on the grill.
How thick should the pork cutlets be?
For the best results and accurate cooking times, the pork cutlets should be cut approximately 3/4 inch thick.
Can I use the leftover glaze after grilling?
Yes, you can serve the remaining glaze alongside the grilled cutlets for extra flavor.
Should the meat rest after cooking?
Yes, it is recommended to let the cutlets rest for a few minutes after removing them from the grill to ensure they stay juicy.
Is this recipe considered spicy?
The recipe includes 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried chipotle powder, which provides a smoky heat that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
What type of stock is used in the glaze?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of chicken stock.
Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?
While the recipe specifies fresh thyme, you can use dried thyme as a substitute, though you may want to reduce the amount slightly as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How do I make the cornstarch slurry smooth?
Combine the cornstarch and cold water in a small jar, secure the lid, and shake it vigorously until the mixture is well combined and clear of lumps.
What are some suggested side dishes for this meal?
These pork cutlets pair excellently with grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
Is this an easy recipe for beginners?
Yes, it is categorized as an easy recipe that uses common pantry staples and simple grilling techniques.
How much chipotle powder is required?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried chipotle powder.
What is the primary sweetener in the glaze?
The primary sweetener is 1/2 cup of maple syrup.
How long does it take to simmer the glaze?
After adding the slurry, the glaze should simmer for about 2 minutes until it thickens.
When should I apply the glaze to the pork?
The glaze should be brushed onto the cutlets while they are on the grill during the cooking process.
What kind of oil should I use for brushing the pork?
The recipe suggests using 1 tablespoon of canola oil.
Is this recipe suitable for a summer BBQ?
Yes, the smoky and sweet profile makes it a perfect choice for summer outdoor cooking.
Can I use this recipe for a quick weeknight dinner?
Absolutely, the quick grilling time and simple prep make it ideal for a fast and flavorful weeknight meal.
How much pork is needed for 6 servings?
You will need approximately 1 1/2 pounds of pork cutlets.
What is the role of the cornstarch in the recipe?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent to give the maple glaze a syrup-like consistency that clings to the meat.
Do I need to boil the glaze mixture?
Yes, you should bring the maple syrup, stock, chipotle, and thyme to a boil before adding the cornstarch slurry.
Can I substitute the chicken stock?
Yes, you could use vegetable stock or even water in a pinch, though chicken stock provides a deeper savory flavor.
What flavor profile does the chipotle provide?
Chipotle powder provides a distinct smoky flavor combined with a moderate level of spicy heat.