MAPLE MARINATED PORK CHOPS

What's for dinner tonight?  Got 5 minutes? Lean cuts of pork can be prepared in the morning before work and marinated for hours until ready to cook at dinnertime.  It is a simple way to put a flavorful, tender meat on the table in a matter of minutes.  Adjust the recipe amounts to make enough servings for dinner and leftovers for lunch the next day.  This recipe is really tasty the next day... slice it thin and serve cold in a lettuce wrap or beside a salad of tossed greens.  

MAPLE MARINATED PORK CHOPS


Ingredients:

2 pork chops
(cutlets, loin chops/bone-in or boneless or tenderloin medallions)
2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon dry mustard
2 teaspoons real maple syrup
(Grade B Maple Syrup is darker and stronger in flavor than Grade A)
1 sprig of chopped fresh oregano
Dash of sea salt and ground pepper

 Directions:

* In a small bowl, combine vinegar, mustard, honey, oregano, salt and pepper. 
* Place pork chops in a shallow dish, add marinade to cover.
* Cover the dish and refrigerate a minimum of 2 hours (or while you are at work!!!)
* Heat a small amount of olive oil in a large heavy skillet (cast iron) over medium-high heat.
* Remove pork from marinade and place in skillet; do not cover.
* Cook pork using tongs to turn.
* Lean pork should not be overcooked.  1/4 inch thick meat takes 3-4 mins. total to cook.  1/2 to 3/4 inch thickness might take 4-8 minutes.  To check doneness, use a quality digital cooking thermometer.  Internal temperature of 145-150 degrees is optimal.
* Remove pork from pan, allow to rest 3 minutes and serve.

Make your Paleo meal complete by adding a vegetable or two.  It is that easy to GO PALEO! Serve up and enjoy!



Photo credit to hungryhollek.com

Recipe Paleo-ized and adapted by w.lynne