Pork Chops with Maple Syrup Glaze

Today’s Menu Idea

The distinctive taste of juniper berries gives this sweet glaze for chops a woodsy outdoor appeal. Where do you find them? Order them on-line or ask your favorite health food store where to find them.

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 30 Minutes
Cooking Time: 17 Minutes

Ingredients:

6 Smithfield Lean Generation bone-in pork chops 1 1/4-inches thick
1/4 c. maple syrup
3 T. olive oil
2 T. balsamic vinegar
2 shallots thinly sliced
4 bay leaves finely chopped
2 T. juniper berries coarsely chopped
1 T. chopped fresh sage OR 1 t. dried sage
2 t. minced garlic
1 t. cracked black pepper
Salt
2 T. maple syrup
1 T. olive oil
1 T. balsamic vinegar

Steps:

For marinade in a small bowl combine 1/4 c. maple syrup 3 T. olive oil 2 T. balsamic vinegar shallots bay leaves juniper berries sage garlic and pepper. Rub the marinade over all surfaces of the pork chops. Place chops in shallow baking dish. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 hours or overnight. Drain chops discarding marinade.Sprinkle chops with salt. In a small bowl stir together the 2 T. maple syrup 1 T. olive oil and 1 T. balsamic vinegar; set aside. Place chops on a kettle-style grill directly over medium-hot coals lower grill hood and grill chops for 12 to 16 minutes turning once until chops are barely done. Brush chops with syrup mixture. Lower grill hood and grill for 1 minute more.

Cuisine:

American

Type of Dish:

Entree

Smithfield Product:

Portioned Pork

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with with grilled fruit and a fresh green salad.

Nutritional information:

Per 3oz. serving:
Calories: 240
Sodium: 68 mg
Protein: 26 g
Cholesterol: 76 mg
Fat: 10 g

Recipe and photo courtesy of National Pork Board. For more information about Pork. The Other White Meat®, visit our website www.otherwhitemeat.com