Deliciously Juicy Grilled Chicken Breast Recipe

Get ready to transform your pork chops with this irresistible recipe for Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops. I guarantee that this recipe will become a staple in your meal plan because of its unique and complex flavors.

You might be wondering what inspired me to create this recipe. Well, it was the combination of two things: molasses and coffee. Both ingredients have robust tastes and when combined, they create a mouth-watering marinade for the pork chops.

Molasses brings its distinct sweetness and earthy aroma, while coffee provides a rich and bitter flavor profile. The result? A deeply satisfying taste that will make you crave for more.

This recipe takes only a few ingredients and minimal time to prepare, but the flavor payoff is huge. Your taste buds will thank you for trying out this Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops recipe which is perfect for any occasion – be it an intimate dinner or a family gathering.

So go ahead, try it out! You won’t regret it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops
Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops

This Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops recipe might just become your new favorite way to cook pork chops, and here’s why.

Firstly, the combination of molasses and coffee for the marinade adds a unique depth of flavor that you won’t find in other pork chop recipes. The sweetness of molasses is perfectly balanced by the bitterness of coffee, creating a savory and slightly smoky taste that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Secondly, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can use it to marinate all different types of pork cuts, from pork steaks to pork tenderloins. You can even use it as a glaze for bacon or ham. The possibilities are endless!

Thirdly, the ingredients list is simple and accessible. Aside from some basic pantry staples like garlic cloves and fresh thyme, you’ll only need a few specialty items like Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar. And if you’re really in a bind, you can always substitute some of the ingredients for similar ones in your pantry.

Lastly, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. The marinade requires only a few minutes to whip up, but it’s recommended that you marinate the pork for at least 12 hours for optimal flavor. This means you can prep ahead and then have a delicious meal ready to cook when you come home from work.

Overall, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’ll take your taste buds on a wild ride. You’ll love how easy it is to make, how versatile it is, and most importantly – how delicious it tastes!

Ingredient List

 Dive into the irresistible taste of molasses coffee marinated pork chops!
Dive into the irresistible taste of molasses coffee marinated pork chops!

Get your kitchen ready for some pork goodness: The Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you need for the molasses coffee marinated pork chops recipe. Be sure to have all the ingredients at hand before proceeding to the recipe.

  • 4 bone-in pork chops, 1 1/2 inch thick
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 fresh thyme sprigs (or use dried thyme)
  • Optional: brown sugar to sprinkle on top

Substitutions and Variations:

These ingredients’ combination is classic, but if you want, feel free to play around with substitute ingredients.
– Pork Chops: You can sub this with any cut of pork such as pork tenderloin or pork loin, or even a pork steak.
– Coffee: If you prefer decaf coffee, that would be fine. But hey, we want you to wake up!
– Molasses: a sufficient amount of brown sugar can be used instead of molasses.

Whether you’re cooking this dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these easy-to-find ingredients will transform those succulent chops into a robust meal that your family and friends will surely love.

The Recipe How-To

 Impress your guests with this gourmet dish that is surprisingly easy to make.
Impress your guests with this gourmet dish that is surprisingly easy to make.

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to get started with the recipe. Trust me, cooking with coffee is worth your while.

Step 1: Marinating the Pork Chops

To begin, take a shallow dish and mix together strongly brewed cool coffee, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. After this, add in minced garlic cloves and molasses. Mix everything together thoroughly until it forms a smooth sauce. Now it’s time to add the pork chops to the shallow dish and coat them evenly with the marinade sauce you created.

Make sure each chop is coated! Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavor your chops will have. So, set an alarm in your fridge to check the time and leave them to rest for as long as possible.

Step 2: Preparing the Pork Chops

Once they’re done marinating, take out the pork chops from the fridge and let it sit on top for some minutes while you gather the other ingredients.

Preheat your oven at 400°F while taking out another baking dish big enough to fit your pork chops from the marination liquid.

Step 3: Glazing Your Molasses-Coffee Pork Chops

Take out a small bowl and mix together ground ginger, kosher salt, fresh thyme leaves, fresh ground black pepper, brown sugar**, and some of reserve marinade sauce.

Brush this mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop leftover marinade sauce poured on top of each chop to ensure it crisps nicely when baked. Place them in your preheated oven.

Step 4: Baking Time

Place your pork on a baking sheet covered with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. This internal temperature will guarantee a juicy and cooked-through chop.

After they are done, take them out of the oven, sprinkle with some more fresh thyme and let them rest for 3-4 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle in.

Step 5: Serving Time

Your hard work has paid off! Your molasses coffee marinated pork chops are ready to be served. These pork chops are perfectly paired with some roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or on top of a bed of mashed potatoes.

Bon appetit!

Substitutions and Variations

 The perfectly balanced sweetness and bitterness of this marinade will blow you away.
The perfectly balanced sweetness and bitterness of this marinade will blow you away.

While this molasses coffee marinated pork chops recipe is already delicious, you might want to change up a few things depending on your preference or if you don’t have certain ingredients. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

– Pork Chops: This recipe works great with other pork cuts such as pork loin, pork tenderloin, or even pork steak.

– Marinade: Don’t have apple cider vinegar? Try using white vinegar or rice vinegar instead. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, combine yellow mustard with honey or maple syrup instead.

– Coffee: You can use any type of brewed coffee that you like. However, for the best flavor result, it’s recommended to use a strong brewed coffee.

– Molasses: If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute with brown sugar or honey instead. Keep in mind that using substitutes may alter the final taste of the recipe.

– Garlic: You can use garlic salt if you don’t have fresh garlic cloves. However, using fresh garlic gives a richer and distinct flavor to the marinade.

– Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs give an aromatic and earthy flavor to the marinade which perfectly complements the other flavors of the dish. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme can be used as a substitute.

– Sugar Alternative: For a healthier take on this recipe, substitute brown sugar with honey or agave syrup.

By making these substitutions and variations, you can create a new flavor profile without sacrificing the essence of this delicious dish. Add your personal touch to this recipe and make it your own!

Serving and Pairing

 Don't settle for boring pork chops, add character to your meal with our recipe.
Don’t settle for boring pork chops, add character to your meal with our recipe.

Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops are a delightful dish that can make your mealtime even more special. The rich flavor and tender texture of these pork chops are sure to please everyone at your dinner table. These flavorful chops can be served with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and green beans.

For a well-rounded meal, you can also pair these pork chops with a sweet or tart salad. A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a few slices of red onion can complement the meaty and slightly sweet flavors of the pork. You may also serve it with a glass of red wine, such as cabernet sauvignon or pinot noir.

This recipe is perfect for outdoor gatherings and backyard barbecues as well. You can pair it with grilled corn on the cob or baked beans to create an exciting and vibrant outdoor party menu. Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops is a versatile dish that can also be used in sandwiches or tacos – making it an ideal dish for lunchtime meals too.

The molasses and coffee flavors in these pork chops go well with other classic barbecue style foods such as burgers, hot dogs, ribs, chicken wings, and pulled pork sandwiches. If you’re looking to kick up the heat, you may also add some spicy condiments like Sriracha sauce or jalapeño peppers. The possibilities are endless when it comes to pairing this delicious recipe.

In sum, these pork chops are perfect for almost any mealtime occasion – including weekend dinners, potlucks, picnics, summer parties, and more. When served alongside classic cookout food and refreshing side dishes, your guests will surely be impressed with the satisfying taste of this unique molasses coffee marinated pork chop recipe.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 The strong and delicious flavor of molasses and coffee will elevate your dinner game.
The strong and delicious flavor of molasses and coffee will elevate your dinner game.

One of the great things about these Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops is that they can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. The pork chops can be marinated for up to 12 hours, so if you’re planning on making them for dinner, you can prepare them in the morning and let them sit in the marinade all day.

For best results, store the marinated pork chops in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag. This will keep them fresh and prevent any cross-contamination with other foods in your refrigerator.

When it’s time to cook the pork chops, remove them from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. You want to get rid of any excess moisture so that they sear properly when you cook them. Season each pork chop with some garlic salt and fresh ground black pepper before grilling, roasting, or pan-frying to your desired degree of doneness.

If you have leftovers, which is unlikely given how delicious this recipe is, you can store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to four days in the refrigerator. When reheating, do so gently over low heat until heated through.

These Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops are a great way to impress guests or treat yourself to a fancy dinner without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. With some simple make-ahead and storing tips, it’s easy to enjoy this flavorful dish anytime you like.

Tips for Perfect Results

Now that you are familiar with the ingredients and cooking process, it’s time to focus on some tips for perfecting your Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops.

1. Brining the Pork Chops: To make your pork chops even more tender and juicier, consider brining them first. Alton Brown’s brine is ideal for marinated pork chops.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh herbs and spices, including fresh garlic cloves, thyme sprigs, and ground ginger. Fresh ingredients will give your dish a significantly tastier flavor.

3. Brew the Perfect Strong Coffee: Since coffee is an essential ingredient in this recipe, it’s crucial to brew strong coffee ahead of time. You can also use leftover cooled coffee from earlier in the day.

4. Season Liberally: Season your pork chops generously with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper for a robust flavor.

5. Cook to the Right Temperature: Whether you cook your pork chops in a pan or on the grill, be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of savory-sweet flavors and tender juicy pork with caramelized crust when making the Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops recipe.

FAQ

As you prepare to try out this molasses coffee marinated pork chops recipe, it is essential to have your concerns and questions answered. I have compiled some frequently asked questions to help make your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable. Read on to find answers and more information about this delicious recipe.

What is the secret to juicy pork chops?

Achieving juicy pork chops can be a real game-changer! One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by using a quick brine. When you bring home a batch of pork chops, take some time to brine them. It only takes 30 minutes, or even up to four hours, but you’ll see the results in the quality of the chop.

What should you marinate pork chops in?

As a barista, I would recommend using different ingredients to enhance the taste of your coffee. Adding a splash of flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel can give your coffee an extra kick. Just like how olive oil transfers flavors, these syrups can bring a whole new dimension to your cup of coffee.

Soy sauce is like a secret ingredient for coffee. Much like how it adds a deep umami flavor to dishes, adding soy sauce to your coffee can add a subtle richness and depth to the flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance for your taste buds.

Brown sugar not only gives a touch of sweetness to your coffee, but it also helps to create a delicious caramelization. Much like how it does in pork chops, it can create a beautiful crust on top of your latte or cappuccino. Just remember to stir it well to avoid any clumps.

Dijon mustard may seem like an unlikely candidate for coffee, but its bold and tangy flavor can add a unique twist to your morning cup. Just like how it brings flavor to a dish, it can bring a whole new level of taste to your coffee. Give it a try and see for yourself!

Do you rinse marinade off pork chops before cooking?

Before cooking pork chops through grilling, broiling or pan-searing, it is recommended to pour off any excess marinade. Having too much liquid present during cooking may hinder the browning process. To ensure that the chops are well-browned, it is advisable to pat them dry with a paper towel after draining the marinade.

How many hours should you marinate pork chops?

When it comes to marinating pork chops, it’s best to allow them to soak up the flavors for 6 to 12 hours. This is because pork chops are a thicker and leaner meat, which requires a longer time to absorb the marinade. After 6 hours, the meat will begin to absorb the flavors, but after 12 hours, the pork chops will be more tender.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a new and exciting way to spice up your pork chops, then the molasses coffee marinated pork chops recipe is definitely worth trying. With its unique blend of flavors, including fresh thyme, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, and of course, brewed coffee and molasses, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds.

Not only that, but it’s also an incredibly easy recipe to follow. Simply mix together the ingredients for the marinade, let your pork chops soak overnight in it, and then cook them up to perfection on your grill or stovetop. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try using this marinade on other cuts of pork like loin, tenderloin or steak!

This recipe not only tastes great but it’s also versatile enough to be used with different types of meat. Moreover, it allows you to experiment with various flavors by substituting or varying the ingredients list as per preference.

So go ahead and give this recipe a go. You won’t regret trying out this delicious and unique dish that will definitely impress your family and friends. And once you’ve tasted how delicious these marinated pork chops are with their caramelized outer crust and juicy center complemented by a rich flavor of brewed coffee and molasses then you’ll never want to go back to plain old pork chops again!

Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops

Molasses Coffee Marinated Pork Chops Recipe

From Alton Brown.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 2 hrs
Cook Time 15 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Calories 470 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup strong coffee, cooled
  • 6 ounces molasses, by weight
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 6 -8 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 4 pork chops, 1-inch thick bone-in (6 to 8-ounce)

Instructions
 

  • Place all of the ingredients into a 1-gallon zip top bag, seal, and shake to combine.
  • Place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
  • Preheat grill to medium-high.
  • Remove the pork chops from the marinade.
  • Transfer the marinade to a small saucepan and place over high heat.
  • Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-high, and boil gently, stirring often, until reduced to about 1/2 cup liquid, 12 to 15 minutes.
  • Remove the thyme stems after the glaze has reduced.
  • Meanwhile, grill pork chops 3 to 4 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.
  • Allow the pork chops to rest 4 to 5 minutes before serving with the glaze.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 315gCalories: 470kcalCarbohydrates: 32.9gProtein: 41.6gFat: 18.2gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 137.3mgSodium: 605.7mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 23.7g
Keyword < 4 Hours, Beginner Cook, Easy, Meat, Pork
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