Adobe Grilled Pork Chops Recipe

Savor the explosion of Southwestern flavors with these Adobe Grilled Pork Chops! This recipe lets you control the heat – from mild to fiery – using your favorite amount of cayenne pepper. Tender, juicy pork chops are marinated in a vibrant adobe paste, then grilled to perfection and basted for irresistible flavor. A quick and easy weeknight meal that's guaranteed to impress!

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 55 mins
Calories 361.1 kcal
Protein 40g
Rating 4.8 (4 Reviews)
Adobe Grilled Pork Chops

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Adobe Grilled Pork Chops

  • Pork Loin Chops
  • Tomato Paste
  • Dried Ancho Chile Powder
  • Adobo Seasoning
  • Ground Cumin
  • Garlic Powder
  • Cayenne Pepper
  • Ground Cloves
  • Fresh Lime Juice
  • Oil
  • Water
  • White Tequila
  • Lime Juice

How to Make Adobe Grilled Pork Chops

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons lime juice; mix until a paste forms.
  2. Spread the adobe paste evenly over both sides of 4 (1-inch thick) pork chops. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (longer is better!), covered in the refrigerator.
  3. Prepare your grill for medium-high heat. Clean the grates thoroughly.
  4. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  5. In a small bowl, combine any leftover adobe paste with 1/4 cup orange juice, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. This is your basting sauce.
  6. Place pork chops on the preheated grill.
  7. Grill for 5-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste frequently with the orange-lime basting sauce during the last 4-6 minutes of cooking.
  8. Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

14 g

Sugar

18g

Fat

42g

Carbs

3g