Spanish-Style BBQ: A Recipe for Marinated Pork Chops with a Spicy Kick
The warm sun-kissed beaches, the vibrant cities, and the rich culinary heritage of Spain all come together in the delicious and flavorful dish known as Spanish-Style BBQ. This mouthwatering recipe is a perfect blend of Mediterranean and Latin American influences, with a spicy kick that will leave your taste buds begging for more. In this article, we’ll explore the recipe for Marinated Pork Chops with a Spicy Kick, a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
The Star of the Show: Pork Chops
Pork chops are the foundation of this Spanish-Style BBQ dish. Thick, juicy, and tender, they’re the perfect canvas for the flavorful marinade that follows. Look for pork chops with a decent amount of marbling, as this will help keep them moist and flavorful.
The Marinade: A Blend of Flavors
The marinade is where the magic happens. It’s a blend of classic Spanish flavors, with a spicy kick from some added heat. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (smoked paprika is a key component of Spanish cuisine, adding a deep, smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Combine all the ingredients in a blender or food processor, and blend until smooth. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
The BBQ: Grilling to Perfection
When it’s time to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill the pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Once cooked, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Once the pork chops are sliced, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Drizzle the chops with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve the Spanish-Style BBQ with a side of crusty bread, a simple salad, or your favorite grilled vegetables.
The Verdict
Spanish-Style BBQ is a game-changer, and this recipe for Marinated Pork Chops with a Spicy Kick is a must-try. The combination of smoky paprika, garlic, and cayenne pepper gives the dish a depth of flavor that’s both bold and aromatic. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking for a new twist on traditional BBQ, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Recipe
Marinated Pork Chops with a Spicy Kick
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
- Combine marinade ingredients in a blender or food processor, and blend until smooth.
- Place pork chops in a shallow dish, and pour marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Let pork chops rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with lime juice and sea salt.
Enjoy your delicious Spanish-Style BBQ, and don’t forget to experiment with different spice levels and marinade ingredients to make it your own!
