Tropical Hawaiian-Style Grilled Pork Chops
Transform your dinner with these juicy Tropical Hawaiian-Style Grilled Pork Chops that are bursting with flavor! Marinated in a delightful blend of sweet pineapple juice, zesty ginger, and umami-rich soy sauce, these bone-in pork chops are the perfect centerpiece for any gathering. Ideal for weeknight meals or summer barbecues, this dish combines the vibrant tastes of Hawaii with tender, juicy pork, making it a family favorite. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables or steamed rice for a complete meal that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
pork loin chops with bone
4 (cut 3/4-inch thick)
unsweetened pineapple juice
2 (6 ounce) cans ((1 1/2 cups))
scallions
3 (white parts sliced into thin rounds)
ginger
3 tablespoons (peeled and minced)
reduced sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoons
dark sesame oil
2 tablespoons
light brown sugar
2 tablespoons
fresh ground black pepper
3/4 teaspoon
coarse salt
1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a large resealable bag, combine the pineapple juice, sliced scallions, minced ginger, reduced sodium soy sauce, dark sesame oil, light brown sugar, black pepper, and coarse salt. Mix well until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
2
Add the bone-in pork loin chops to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Seal the bag tightly, removing as much air as possible before refrigerating. Marinate for 2 to 10 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3
When you're ready to grill, take the chops out of the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid. Discard the leftover marinade.
4
Prepare your grill for medium-hot cooking by preheating it. Clean the grill grate with a brush and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
5
Place the pork chops on the grill directly over the heat. Grill for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once halfway through, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 145 degrees F.
6
Once cooked, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for 3 minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful tropical pork chops!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tropical Hawaiian-Style Grilled Pork Chops?
They are bone-in pork chops marinated in a sweet and savory blend of pineapple juice, ginger, and soy sauce, then grilled to perfection.
What type of pork chops are best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for bone-in pork loin chops for the best flavor and juiciness.
How thick should the pork chops be cut?
It is recommended to use pork chops that are cut approximately 3/4-inch thick.
What is the base of the marinade?
The marinade base consists of unsweetened pineapple juice, soy sauce, and dark sesame oil.
How long should I marinate the pork chops?
You should marinate the pork chops for at least 2 hours, but up to 10 hours for maximum flavor.
Can I marinate the pork for more than 10 hours?
It is not recommended to exceed 10 hours as the acidity in the pineapple juice can begin to break down the meat's texture too much.
Why do I need to pat the chops dry before grilling?
Patting them dry helps achieve a better sear on the grill and prevents the meat from steaming.
What temperature should the grill be?
The grill should be preheated to a medium-hot temperature.
How long do I cook the pork chops on the grill?
Grill them for 8 to 10 minutes total, turning them once halfway through the cooking time.
What is the safe internal temperature for cooked pork chops?
The internal temperature should reach 145 degrees F when measured with a meat thermometer.
Do I need to let the pork chops rest after grilling?
Yes, let the chops rest for 3 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Can I reuse the marinade after taking the meat out?
No, you should always discard the leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw meat.
Is it okay to use reduced sodium soy sauce?
Yes, the recipe specifically recommends reduced sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.
What can I substitute for light brown sugar?
You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for the light brown sugar in the marinade.
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground?
The recipe calls for fresh ginger that is peeled and minced for the best tropical flavor.
What kind of oil should I use on the grill grate?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, to prevent sticking.
Are these pork chops spicy?
No, they are more sweet and savory, though the fresh ginger and black pepper add a very mild warmth.
What should I serve with Hawaiian pork chops?
They pair excellently with grilled vegetables, steamed rice, or a tropical fruit salsa.
Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes, but keep in mind that boneless chops may cook faster, so monitor the internal temperature closely.
Does the recipe require fresh or canned pineapple juice?
The recipe suggests using unsweetened canned pineapple juice for convenience and consistent acidity.
How many scallions do I need?
You will need 3 scallions, using the white parts sliced into thin rounds.
What does dark sesame oil add to the dish?
Dark sesame oil provides a rich, nutty aroma and depth of flavor to the marinade.
Can I cook these pork chops on a stovetop?
Yes, you can use a grill pan or heavy skillet over medium-high heat if an outdoor grill is not available.
Is this recipe suitable for a summer barbecue?
Absolutely, the tropical flavors and grilling method make it a perfect centerpiece for a summer cookout.
How many pork chops does this recipe prepare?
The recipe is designed for 4 pork loin chops.
Can I freeze the pork in the marinade?
Yes, you can freeze the bag with the pork and marinade; it will marinate as it thaws in the refrigerator.
What is the role of brown sugar in this recipe?
Brown sugar adds sweetness to balance the soy sauce and helps create a caramelized crust on the grill.
What is the best way to clean the grill before cooking?
Preheat the grill first, then use a grill brush to remove any debris before lightly oiling the grate.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Yes, this tropical marinade also works very well with chicken thighs or even shrimp.
Are these pork chops family-friendly?
Yes, the sweet and savory flavor profile is generally very popular with both children and adults.