Coffee-Molasses Marinated Pork Chops

This had a very sophisticated and robust taste to it.  Definitely something you might have in a nice restaurant.  Not a big hit with the children, but the adults thoroughly enjoyed!  Very easy to prepare.

4 Servings
Prep: 10 min. + marinating Grill: 10 min.


Ingredients

1 cup strong brewed coffee
1/4 cup molasses
6 fresh thyme sprigs
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
4 bone-in pork loin chops (1 inch thick)

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the first nine ingredients. Pour 1/2 cup marinade into a large resealable plastic bag; add the pork chops.  Seal bag and turn to coat; refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Cover and refrigerate remaining coffee mixture until ready to cook.

For glaze, place remaining coffee mixture in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil; cook until liquid is reduced to about 1/2 cup.  If grilling the chops, coat grill rack with cooking spray before starting the grill. Drain and discard marinade. Grill chops, covered, over medium heat or broil 4-6 in. from the heat for 4-5 minutes on each side or until a meat thermometer reads 160°.

Spoon glaze over chops.

Yield: 4 servings.

Nutrition Facts: 1 pork chop with 2 tablespoons glaze equals 370 calories, 18 g fat (7 g saturated fat), 111 mg cholesterol, 415 mg sodium, 12 g carbohydrate, trace fiber, 36 g protein.
 
Taste of Home Magazine, April & May 2010