Imagine biting into a tender, juicy pork chop kissed with the sweet and tangy essence of balsamic cherries. The aroma wafts through the air, and your mouth begins to water. This Balsamic Cherry Grilled Pork isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your palate and sings to your soul. pumpkin spice dessert Picture it sizzling on the grill, its rich flavors mingling with the smoky char, creating a symphony of taste that makes you forget all about that sad takeout in the fridge.
Now, let’s not forget the memories attached to this dish. It takes me back to summer barbecues with friends where laughter flowed as freely as the wine. Each bite was a delight, and my friends would exclaim over how simple yet extraordinary it was. Ideal for gatherings or intimate dinners, this dish promises an explosion of flavor that you won’t soon forget.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Balsamic Cherry Grilled Pork is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings
- The flavor profile combines sweet and tangy notes that excite your taste buds
- Its stunning presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table
- Versatile enough to pair with various sides like salads or roasted veggies, this dish has you covered!
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were practically fighting over the last bites!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pork Chops: Choose thick-cut chops for juiciness; bone-in adds extra flavor but boneless works too.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A good quality vinegar enhances sweetness; opt for aged balsamic if possible.
- Fresh Cherries: Use ripe cherries for natural sweetness; pitting them can be a fun activity.
- Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness; local honey is best for unique flavors. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Mustard Maple Glazed Ham recipe.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic brings depth; don’t skimp on this fragrant ingredient.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle ensures moisture and flavor; use extra virgin for the best results.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors in the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be aromatic and slightly thickened.
Pit and Slice Cherries: Pit fresh cherries and slice them in half. Their vibrant color will add beauty to your dish while enhancing flavor when cooked.
Marinate the Pork Chops: Place your pork chops in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over them and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight if you’re feeling ambitious). The longer they marinate, the more flavor they absorb!
Preheat Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). A hot grill ensures those beautiful grill marks while sealing in juices.
Add Cherries During Cooking: As you grill the pork chops for about 5-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), sprinkle sliced cherries over them during the last few minutes. Watch as they caramelize beautifully!
Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, transfer chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This step allows juices to redistribute—no one likes dry pork! Serve topped with remaining cherry sauce drizzled over each chop.
Enjoy this delightful Balsamic Cherry Grilled Pork with sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. balsamic roasted asparagus side dish Your taste buds are in for a treat! creamy mashed potatoes recipe.
You Must Know
- Balsamic Cherry Grilled Pork is not just a recipe; it’s an experience
- The sweet-tart glaze and smoky flavors transform simple pork into a mouthwatering feast
- Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this dish guarantees to impress your guests and elevate your grilling game
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the pork for at least two hours. Next, grill over medium heat to achieve those beautiful char marks while ensuring juicy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cherries with other fruits like peaches or apricots for a unique twist. Adding herbs like rosemary can elevate the flavor profile too.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain juiciness without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate overnight for intensified flavor and tenderness
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste, and don’t skip on the resting time after grilling!
- This step ensures juices redistribute, resulting in a moist bite every time
Sharing this dish brings back memories of my backyard cookouts filled with laughter and compliments from friends who couldn’t get enough of the sweet glaze!
FAQ
How long should I marinate the pork?
Marinate for at least two hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.
Can I use other meats instead of pork?
Yes, chicken or turkey thighs work great with this balsamic cherry glaze. cranberry chicken salad option.
What sides pair well with Balsamic Cherry Grilled Pork?
For more inspiration, check out this Korean Beef Bulgogi recipe.
Serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Balsamic Cherry Grilled Pork
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the succulent taste of Balsamic Cherry Grilled Pork, where tender pork chops meet a sweet and tangy balsamic cherry glaze. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, leaving your guests impressed with its vibrant flavors. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it pairs beautifully with salads and roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.
Ingredients
- 4 thick-cut pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Pit and slice the cherries in half.
- Place pork chops in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C).
- Grill pork chops for about 5-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), adding cherries during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve topped with remaining cherry sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop (170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
