Pork Chops with Maple Syrup Glaze

This recipe, from the National Pork Council, combine sweet and savory flavors in a perfect combination. Follow this link to learn more about Pork as well as lots more pork recipes!

bone-in pork chops, 1 1/4-inch-thick 1/4 cup + 2T maple syrup, divided 4 T olive oil, divided 3 T balsamic vinegar, divided 2 shallots, thinly sliced 4 bay leaves, finely chopped 2 T juniper berries, coarsely chopped 1 T chopped fresh sage OR 1 tsp. dried 2 tsp. minced garlic 1 tsp. cracked black pepper salt to taste

Serves 6 For marinade, in a small bowl combine 1/4 cup maple syrup, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, shallots, bay leaves, juniper berries, sage, garlic and pepper. Rub the marinade over all surfaces of the pork chops. Place chops in shallow baking dish. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 hours or overnight. Drain chops, discarding marinade. Sprinkle chops with salt. In a small bowl stir together the 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; set aside. Place chops on a kettle-style grill directly over medium-hot coals, lower grill hood and grill chops for 12 to 16 minutes, turning once, until chops are barely done. Brush chops with syrup mixture. Lower grill hood and grill for 1 minute more. (Note: You can alternatively broil, or pan fry the pork chops.) Nutrient Information per Serving: Calories: 240 Sodium: 68 mg Protein: 26 gm Cholesterol: 76 mg Fat: 10 gm