Grilled pork chops with fragrant lemongrass marinade.
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Nutrition per Serving
Ingredients
Estimated total cost: €6.40 · €3.20/serving
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (mix with a splash of water to create a syrupy consistency)Est. price €0.18–€0.45
- 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon premium fish sauce (look for a high-quality brand for best flavor)Est. price €0.85–€1.70
- 1 fragrant lemongrass stalk, finely chopped (bruise with the back of a knife to release aroma)Est. price €0.40–€0.80
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh garlic, minced (saute in oil until golden brown for depth of flavor)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
- 2 tablespoons shallots, finely minced (sweat in a pan until translucent for sweetness)Est. price €0.15–€0.35
- 1 aromatic Thai chile, stemmed and finely chopped (be cautious with handling, as it can be spicy)Est. price €0.20–€0.50
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (grind just before using for maximum freshness)Est. price €0.02–€0.08
- 3 center cut pork chops with bone, each about 12 ounces and 1 inch thick (sear in a hot pan to lock in juices, then finish in the oven to ensure even cooking)Est. price €4.50–€9.00
Steps
- 1Begin by mixing together sugar, fish sauce, lemongrass, garlic, shallot, chile, and black pepper in a bowl until the sugar has dissolved. Place the pork chops in a dish with edges in one layer. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, cover them with plastic wrap, and allow them to marinate at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the pork overnight. Remember to bring it back to room temperature before grilling.
- 2Start by lighting a charcoal grill to create a high-temperature zone, indicated by being able to tolerate the heat 1 to 2 inches above the grate for just 2 to 3 seconds. Once the coals are at the right temperature, move around two-thirds of them to cover half of the grilling area, establishing a hotter section. Distribute the remaining one-third of coals on the other side of the grill, forming a cooler region for cooking.
Cultural note
Lemongrass Pork Chops on the Grill is inspired by Vietnamese cuisine, where lemongrass is commonly used to infuse dishes with a citrusy and fragrant flavor. The combination of lemongrass, fish sauce, and aromatic herbs reflects the complex and vibrant flavors of Southeast Asian cooking.
Seasonal note
Lemongrass is typically in season during the warmer months of spring and summer, making it an ideal time to prepare Lemongrass Pork Chops on the Grill. Fresh herbs like lemongrass and Thai chile are best enjoyed when in season for optimal flavor.
Health note
Lemongrass Pork Chops on the Grill is a flavorful dish that provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins like A and C. However, it is high in calories, carbohydrates, sugar, and sodium, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
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