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Spicy Pineapple-Glazed Pork Chops with Cilantro Lime Rice

2023-02-20 - Written by: Chef Maria Rodriguez

Main Course Pork Grilled Mexican-inspired

Spicy Pineapple-Glazed Pork Chops with Cilantro Lime Rice

A sweet and spicy twist on traditional pork chops, served with a refreshing side of cilantro lime rice.

Spicy Pineapple-Glazed Pork Chops with Cilantro Lime Rice

Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • For the pork chops:
    • 1 1/2 pounds pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
    • 1/4 cup brown sugar
    • 2 tablespoons chili powder
    • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
    • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 cup pineapple juice
    • 2 tablespoons honey
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • For the cilantro lime rice:
    • 1 cup uncooked white rice
    • 2 cups water
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
    • Juice of 1 lime
    • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

For the pork chops:

  1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork chops, making sure they are evenly coated.
  4. Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil.
  5. Grill the pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
  6. While the pork chops are cooking, prepare the pineapple glaze by mixing together pineapple juice and honey in a small saucepan.
  7. Bring the glaze to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
  8. Brush the glaze all over the pork chops during the last minute of cooking.

For the cilantro lime rice:

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped cilantro and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  3. Add uncooked white rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil and mix with cilantro.
  4. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the rice is lightly toasted.
  5. Add water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is cooked.
  7. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in juice of 1 lime.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

  • Slice the grilled pork chops and serve on top of cilantro lime rice.
  • Garnish with additional chopped cilantro, if desired.