Tropical Jerk Pork Chops

Juicy pork chops marinated in a vibrant jerk spice mixture, grilled or pan-seared, with tropical fruit notes for balance.

Ingredients (4 servings)

For the Pork Chops:

4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt & black pepper

For the Jerk Marinade:

3 scallions, chopped

2–3 cloves garlic

1 small onion, chopped

1–2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero) seeded for less heat

2 tsp fresh thyme

1 tsp ground allspice

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground nutmeg

2 tbsp brown sugar

3 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp lime juice

2 tbsp pineapple juice

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Optional Tropical Garnish:

Grilled pineapple slices

Fresh cilantro

Lime wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a blender or food processor, combine scallions, garlic, onion, Scotch bonnet, thyme, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, pineapple juice, and vinegar.

Blend into a smooth paste.

2. Marinate the Pork

Rub pork chops generously with the jerk marinade.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for maximum flavor).

3. Cook the Pork

Grill Method:

Preheat grill to medium-high.

Grill pork chops 4–5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Pan-Seared Method:

Heat 2 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear pork chops 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and nicely caramelized.

4. Rest & Serve

Let pork chops rest 5 minutes before slicing.

Serve with grilled pineapple slices ,fresh cilantro and lime wedges

Tips & Variations

For extra tropical flair, serve with coconut rice and mango salsa

Adjust heat by using fewer peppers or leaving seeds in for maximum spice.

Can also bake marinated chops at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes if grilling isn’t available.

Leftover marinade can be simmered into a quick glaze for drizzling.

Presentation Suggestion

Place pork chop on a plate with grilled pineapple on the side, a spoonful of mango salsa if desired, and a wedge of lime. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a vibrant Caribbean look.