Introduction

Have you ever dared to try something new in the kitchen and ended up wondering why you hadn’t done it sooner? For me, that was the day I decided to ladle a bit of Tamari glaze over perfectly grilled pork chops. The match was just exceptional. Complemented by the sweet, charred slices of grilled pineapple, this dish has since become a frequent request at our family dinners, especially during the warmer months when the grill becomes the hearth of our home.

This pork chop recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a delightful excursion into a world where East meets West on your taste buds. And even if you’re a rookie at the grill, don’t worry. I’ll walk you through every step, sharing all the tips and tricks that have helped me along the way!

Why You'll Love This Pork Chops Recipe

Before we delve into the how-to’s, let’s talk about why you will absolutely love this dish:

  • Bold Flavors: The umami-rich Tamari glaze balances the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully, making each bite a complex flavor experience.
  • Simple Ingredients: Everything you need for this recipe is easily accessible, not requiring any trip to a specialty store.
  • Quick Preparation: From start to finish, you’re only looking at about 30 minutes – perfect for a hassle-free yet impressive weeknight dinner.
  • Grill-friendly: Everything’s done on the grill, which not only flavors the dish uniquely but also keeps the cleanup to a minimum.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish together:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons Tamari or high-quality soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings
  • Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Let's get cooking! Here’s your step-by-step guide to making these deliciously glazed pork chops and grilled pineapple:

  1. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the Tamari (or soy sauce), honey, garlic powder, and olive oil. Set this aside.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. You want a hot grill to ensure those beautiful grill marks without overcooking the pork.
  3. Season the Pork Chops: Lightly season each pork chop with salt and pepper. Brush a bit of the glaze mixture onto both sides of the chops.
  4. Grill the Pork Chops: Place the pork chops on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, depending on their thickness, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste frequently with the Tamari glaze as they cook.
  5. Grill the Pineapple: While the pork chops are grilling, place the pineapple slices on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they have nice grill marks and are slightly caramelized.
  6. Serve: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after grilling. Serve with the grilled pineapple slices and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Meal

To ensure your pork chops with Tamari glaze and grilled pineapple turn out just right, here are some tips:

  • Don’t Overcook: Pork chops are best enjoyed when they’re not overcooked. Using a meat thermometer is a great way to check if they’ve reached the correct internal temperature.
  • Rest the Meat: Letting your chops rest for a few minutes after grilling helps redistribute the juices, making your pork chops juicier and more flavorful.
  • Baste Generously: Keep basting the chops with the glaze while they cook. This not only adds flavor but helps prevent them from drying out.
  • High Heat for Pineapple: Grilled pineapple needs a high heat to achieve those lovely char marks without turning mushy, so don’t be afraid to keep the heat up.

Conclusion

There’s something about the combination of savory Tamari glaze and the natural sweetness of pineapple that just shouts summer. This Pork Chops with Tamari Glaze and Grilled Pineapple recipe is all about embracing simple ingredients for a standout meal. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or new to the game, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. So, why not give it a try this coming weekend? Get the grill out, invite some friends over, and watch as these flavors steal the spotlight! Happy grilling!