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Tropical Jerk Pork Chops Recipe

Tropical Jerk Pork Chops Recipe

4.8 from 5 reviews

Deliciously spiced Tropical Jerk Pork Chops marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, lime juice, and traditional jerk spices, grilled or seared to perfection and optionally topped with a fresh tropical pineapple salsa. Perfect for a vibrant and exotic meal with Caribbean-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pork Chops:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Jerk Marinade:

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 12 tsp chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
  • 1 tsp allspice
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Optional Tropical Salsa:

  • 1 cup diced pineapple
  • ½ red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Pork Chops: In a bowl, combine all jerk marinade ingredients thoroughly. Place pork chops in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them to coat evenly. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 3–4 hours to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
  2. Prepare the Tropical Salsa (Optional): In a small bowl, mix diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve for a refreshing and tangy accompaniment.
  3. Cook the Pork Chops: Grilling Method: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade and pat lightly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Grill chops for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Stovetop Method: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
  4. Serve: Plate the cooked pork chops and top with the optional tropical salsa if desired. Serve alongside rice, grilled vegetables, or plantains to create a fully rounded tropical meal experience.

Notes

  • Marinating for 3–4 hours enhances the flavor more deeply but marinating for at least 1 hour is sufficient.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  • The tropical salsa is optional but complements the spicy pork chops beautifully.
  • Leftover salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure soy sauce used is gluten-free tamari.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tropical Jerk Pork Chops, Caribbean pork recipe, jerk marinade, grilled pork chops, tropical pineapple salsa, spicy pork chops, easy pork dinner