"Poke" Chops
Tender pork chops marinated in savory soy and Worcestershire sauces, then grilled to perfection. A flavorful, juicy dish ideal for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle the pork chops with meat tenderizer and poke into the meat with a fork to tenderize.
- Combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vegetable oil, and garlic salt in a shallow pan or casserole dish to create the marinade.
- Place the pork chops in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Poke the meat and turn the chops occasionally while marinating.
- Preheat the grill and cook the pork chops for about 10 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Alternatively, broil in the oven.
- Baste the pork chops with the leftover marinade while cooking for extra flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For even more flavorful pork chops, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or fresh minced garlic to the marinade. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with balsamic vinegar or a mix of soy sauce and ketchup. Make sure to use a meat tenderizer that suits your taste, as some can be saltier than others, affecting the overall flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the poke chops with a side of Granny'S Baked Beans for a hearty meal or pair them with a refreshing Broccoli Salad No.1 for a balanced plate. For a delicious twist, consider serving them with rice or grilled vegetables. A light coleslaw also complements the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Poke" Chops contains roughly 174 calories, with 7g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (18% of the Daily Value) and protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2318mg per serving (101% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in pork chops work well for this recipe and can add extra flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to cook through compared to boneless chops.
What can I serve with poke chops?
Poke chops pair beautifully with various sides. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even some cornbread for a comforting meal. For a complete feast, add a dessert like E. Miller'S Mincemeat Pie.
How do I know when the pork chops are done cooking?
Pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and let them rest for a few minutes after cooking to maintain juiciness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).