Elevate your dinner game with these delectable Balsamic Peach Pork Chops with Blue Cheese. The combination of tangy balsamic vinegar, sweet peaches, and creamy blue cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will impress any palate. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a special family meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 2 ripe peaches, sliced
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
1. Prepare the Marinade:
• In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
• Place pork chops in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag.
• Pour the balsamic marinade over them, making sure they are well coated.
• Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
• Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
• Remove pork chops from marinade and discard the marinade.
• Grill pork chops for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium rare, or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
5. Grill the Peaches:
• While pork chops are grilling, grill peach slices for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
6. Rest the Meat:
• Remove pork chops and peaches from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
7. Assemble the Dish:
• Serve pork chops topped with grilled peach slices and crumbled blue cheese.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
• Calories: 380 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4
Tips
• Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the pork chops, the more flavorful they will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours if possible.
• Peach Ripeness: Use ripe but firm peaches for grilling to ensure they hold their shape and develop a nice caramelization.
• Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops to avoid overcooking.
Benefits
• Balanced Flavors: The tangy balsamic vinegar pairs beautifully with the sweetness of peaches and the creamy, pungent blue cheese.
• High Protein: Pork chops are a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Seasonal Ingredients: This recipe takes advantage of seasonal peaches, offering a fresh and nutritious addition to your meal.
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as they may cook faster than bone-in chops.
Can I bake the pork chops instead of grilling?
Certainly! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the pork chops for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach the desired internal temperature.
What can I use instead of blue cheese?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese or goat cheese for a different but equally delicious flavor.
Conclusion
Balsamic Peach Pork Chops with Blue Cheese is a dish that brings together the best of summer flavors in a gourmet presentation. The savory pork, sweet peaches, and rich blue cheese create a memorable meal that is both sophisticated and comforting. Try this recipe for your next dinner, and enjoy the compliments from your guests!