Grilled marinated chop with cornmeal potato side dish

Grilled marinated pork chop with cornmeal potato side

When it comes to cooking, sometimes we want to enjoy delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe for grilled marinated pork chop with cornmeal potato side is perfect for those moments. It's quick, simple, and full of flavors, and the combination of the juicy chop and crispy potatoes will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4

A short story about the recipe

This recipe is inspired by the culinary traditions of many cultures that value grilled meat. Marinating meat is a technique used for centuries to intensify flavors and tenderize texture. The combination of pork chop with cornmeal potatoes brings an element of nostalgia, reminding us of hearty childhood meals where each ingredient played its role in creating an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients

For the chop:
- 4 boneless pork chop slices
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 tablespoons red wine
- 1 teaspoon honey

For the potatoes:
- 4-5 medium potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- a pinch of sweet paprika
- cornmeal, for sprinkling

Step by step: How to prepare grilled marinated chop and cornmeal potatoes

1. Preparing the chop: Start by washing the chop slices under cold running water. After drying them with a paper towel, use a meat mallet to gently pound them, making them more tender and better able to absorb the marinade.

2. Preparing the marinade: In a bowl, add the mustard, honey, and crushed garlic. Mix the ingredients well, then add the oil, salt, pepper, paprika, basil, thyme, and red wine. Rub all the ingredients together to obtain a smooth marinade.

3. Marinating the meat: Place the chops in the bowl and make sure each piece is well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, you can let the meat marinate even longer, for a few hours, for an even more intense flavor.

4. Preparing the potatoes: Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and wash them well. Cut them into larger slices, about 1-2 cm thick. In another bowl, mix the potato slices with the oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, and paprika. Make sure each slice is well coated.

5. Baking the potatoes: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and add a small cup of water to the tray to prevent the potatoes from drying out. Place the potatoes in the tray and sprinkle cornmeal on top, which will add a crunchy texture. Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and slightly crispy.

6. Cooking the chop: While the potatoes are baking, heat a grill pan over medium heat. Remove the chops from the marinade and place them in the pan. Sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side, being careful not to leave them too long, or they will dry out. Check if they are cooked properly, and for optimal results, use a meat thermometer; the chop should reach an internal temperature of about 70°C.

7. Serving: Once the potatoes are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Place the chops on plates alongside the potatoes and, if desired, you can add a fresh salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Serving suggestions and variations

For an extra flavor boost, you can serve the chop with a yogurt dill sauce or a cabbage salad. You can also experiment with different spices in the marinade, such as coriander or cumin, to add an exotic touch.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of meat? Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken breast or beef.
- How can I make the potatoes more flavorful? You can add chopped garlic or onion to the potato seasoning mix.
- Is this recipe suitable for a family dinner? Definitely! It’s an easy recipe to prepare that will impress both adults and kids.

Nutritional benefits

Pork chop is a good source of protein and contains B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates and fiber, providing lasting energy. The added cornmeal gives a crunchy note and contributes to fiber intake.

Calories

This recipe is balanced, having approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used and the portion size.

In conclusion, grilled marinated pork chop with cornmeal potato side is an excellent choice for a delicious and quick meal. With a bit of planning and dedication, you will create a tasty dish that will surely become a favorite in your weekly menu. Enjoy!