Ancho-Honey Citrus Grilled Pork Chops

Fire up the grill and enjoy Ancho-Honey Citrus Grilled Pork Chops. Ancho chile, the dried version of the poblano pepper, is often used to add depth and interest to Southwestern cuisines. We’ve paired its slight smokiness and subtle heat with honey and lemon in our Ancho-Honey Citrus Seasoning for an all-in-one spice blend that pairs perfectly with pork.

These grilled pork chops are brined and then marinated in the Ancho-Honey Citrus Seasoning to provide a bold fusion of sweet, spicy, and tangy. When combined with barbecue sauce and the char of the grill, these pork chops bring the flavors of the Southwest to your table.

Curious Spoon Culinary Team
Difficulty:
Moderate
Prep Time:
2 hours 0 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
2 minutes

Ingredients

Yield 2

Pork Brine

  • 4 tbsp. Curious Spoon Ancho-Honey Citrus Seasoning, divided
  • 1/3 cup Kosher Salt
  • 2 tbsp. Sugar
  • 3 cups Water
  • 2 Bone-in Pork Chops

Ancho-Honey Citrus Marinade

  • 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp. White Onion, finely diced
  • 1 tbsp. Barbecue Sauce
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 4 tbsp. Curious Spoon Ancho-Honey Citrus Seasoning, divided

 

  • Salt
  • Ground Black Pepper

From the Kitchen

• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Small sauce pot
• Container for marinating
• Small bowl
• Gas or charcoal grill

Notes from the Chef:

Talk to your butcher for the freshest cut when looking for pork chops! Ask for a bone-in chop to be cut as you wait and describe the size/thickness desired.

Make it a meal:
Serve with charred vegetables for a full grilled meal!
Pairs well with:
Pairs well with red wine, such as a Zinfandel or Pinot Noir or a sparkling cider.
Directions:
  1. 1

    Prep all ingredients.

  2. 2

    Mix 1 tbsp. of Curious Spoon Ancho-Honey Citrus Seasoning, kosher salt, sugar, and water in small sauce pot then bring to a simmer. Cook until salt and sugar are dissolved. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.

  3. 3

    Pour cooled mixture over pork chops in sealable container. Refrigerate for 1-1/2 hours, until pork chops are thoroughly brined.

  4. 4

    Mix vegetable oil, garlic, onion, barbecue sauce, bay leaf, and remaining 3 tbsp. of Curious Spoon Ancho-Honey Citrus Seasoning in small bowl to create marinade.

  5. 5

    Pat brined pork chops dry with paper towel and immerse in ancho-honey marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 min (let marinate overnight for the best flavor!)

  6. 6

    Remove pork chops from the marinade. Season both sides lightly with kosher salt and pepper.

  7. 7

    Preheat charcoal or gas grill to medium-heat. Grill pork chops for 15-20 minutes, turning every few minutes to cook evenly. Brush pork chops with marinade occasionally while cooking.

  8. 8

    Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.