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Spice-Rubbed Grilled Pork Chops on a Stick
Ingredients
- 6 8x1/4-inch-thick wooden skewers or bamboo chopsticks
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon packed brown sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon onion salt
- 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.25 teaspoon dry mustard
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 6 boneless pork top loin chops
cut 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches thick
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or teriyaki sauce
Directions
- 1
To prevent wooden skewers or chopsticks from burning while grilling chops, soak them in water for 30 minutes before inserting into chops. Or, if you like, don't serve the pork chops on a stick.
- 2
For rub: In a small bowl, combine paprika, brown sugar, onion salt, garlic powder, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, mustard, cayenne and black pepper. Brush chops on both sides with soy sauce. Sprinkle rub over chops and rub in with your fingers. Insert a wooden chopstick into a short side of each chop.
- 3
For a charcoal grill, arrange medium-hot coals around a drip pan. Test for medium heat above pan. Place pork chops on grill rack over pan. Cover; grill chops 30 to 35 minutes or until chops are slightly pink in center and juices run clear (145°F to 160°F). (For a gas grill, preheat grill. Reduce heat to medium. Adjust for indirect cooking. Place chops on grill rack over burner that is turned off. Cover and grill as directed.) Remove from grill; let stand for 3 minutes before serving.
Spice-Rubbed Grilled Pork Chops on a Stick
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About this Recipe
Craving a flavorful, fun way to enjoy pork chops? These "lollipops" are juicy, tender, and pack an incredible depth of flavor that will transport you straight to the heart of Iowa's RAGBRAI route, where such meaty delights inspire. This recipe turns ordinary pork chops into an extraordinary grilling experience, perfect for any backyard gathering or weeknight meal.
What makes these spice-rubbed grilled pork chops truly shine is the meticulously balanced dry rub. Combining warm spices like cinnamon and ginger with savory notes from onion salt and cumin, plus a kick of cayenne, creates a complex crust that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The "on a stick" presentation isn't just a novelty; it makes these thick-cut chops incredibly easy to handle and enjoy, just like their roadside inspiration.
When you bite into these grilled pork chops, you'll discover a harmonious blend of savory and subtly sweet notes, punctuated by a gentle heat. The texture is wonderfully succulent, a testament to the juicy boneless pork top loin chops specified. The exterior develops a fantastic, almost crunchy crust from the spices, contrasting perfectly with the tender interior. It's a satisfyingly meaty and flavorful dish that promises a delightful eating experience, all served up in a playful "lollipop" style.
Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. If you prefer less heat, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper, or increase it for an extra fiery kick. While the recipe suggests soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for finishing, you can experiment with other glazes like a honey-garlic sauce or even a smoky barbecue sauce to complement the robust spice rub. For serving, consider pairing these flavorful chops with a crisp salad, grilled corn, or a side of fluffy rice. They make an excellent centerpiece for a casual summer cookout or a festive family dinner.