Achieve crosshatch on grilled pork chop?
I know that putting a crosshatch on a pork chop won't increase its flavor but I like the presentation. Generally, I either rotate my chops too early or too late, resulting in torn meat or no crosshatch. How can I tell when is the right time to rotate the chop to achieve the crosshatch?
Best Answer
First, make sure your grill grates are brushed well to remove debris so that the food has complete contact with the grates. After preheating the grill use a clean old towel to wipe the grates with a light coating of oil. Additionally, a thin coating of oil on your pork chops or other protein item will be beneficial.
Once you've placed the meat on the grill it's really just a matter of paying attention to the meat. Don't try turning too soon or you'll tear the meat and leave the grill marks behind. If the meat resists, leave it alone. It will release itself from the grill when it's ready to be rotated for the cross-hatch marks or to be turned over.
Of course there is no need to be concerned about grill marks on the second side as only one side will be the "presentation side" and the second side will never have marks as good as the first since there will likely be small bits of food debris keeping it from having complete contact with the grill.
Presentation side for other items would be the flattest surface (such as the skin side of a skinless chicken breast) or the nicer looking side (flesh side of a fish fillet).
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How do you get crosshatch grill marks?
Sear the chops over high heat. If using a gas grill, lower one of the burners to medium heat. Place the chops on the hotter side of the grill, cover, and cook until grill marks appear on the bottom, about 3 minutes per side.How do you get grill marks on pork chops?
In contrast to popular belief, you should NOT poke holes in pork chops before marinating. This actually drains out the valuable juices and will result in less juicy meat.Should you poke holes in pork chops before grilling?
Cooking on the Grill Pork chops cook quickly, so it's important to stay close to the grill and pay attention to the meat. Start with the grill as hot as possible. Place the chops on the grill, evenly spaced directly over the heat. Close the lid.More answers regarding achieve crosshatch on grilled pork chop?
Answer 2
Be sure the grill is very hot. If the meat did not sizzle when you put it on the grill, then the grill was not hot enough. Also, do not move the meat around except for turning it over.
Answer 3
I know the standard answer is to wipe the grill with oil, but I find it much easier and more consistent to spray the pork chop with cooking spray, e.g., Pam, before putting it on the grill. That way you know you have an even layer of oil and don't have to worry about it burning off the grill.
Answer 4
Try wiping some oil on the grill before slapping the chops down?
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