Marinated Pork Skewers with Onion and Chili

This flavorful and easy-to-make skewers recipe features tender pork neck chops infused with the aromatic essence of onions and a hint of chili for a delightful kick. The marination process breaks down the meat fibers, making the pork succulent and juicy. A splash of olive oil and a touch of lemon juice balance the spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The addition of sugar might seem unconventional, but it enhances the natural sweetness of the onions and balances the heat of the chili. Perfect for summer grilling, this dish is both a treat for the taste buds and a feast for the eyes. With a preparation time of just half an hour, excluding the marination, it's an ideal dish for spontaneous gatherings or planned celebrations. The choice of side dishes is flexible, allowing you to pair the skewers with a variety of accompaniments. For those who prefer something milder, adjusting the chili amounts will still result in a delicious meal. This dish exemplifies how simple ingredients can be transformed into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1.8 kg Pork Neck Chops
• 4 Onions

Spices

• 1.5 Chili Peppers (adjust if less heat is preferred)
• 1 Tablespoon Salt
• A Pinch of Sugar

Other

• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• Juice of 1 Lemon

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 24 hours including marination
• Active Prep Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and grate them finely. Remember, you can't have too many onions; use as many as you have meat.

2. Mix the Spice Base: Add sliced chili to the grated onions. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference; about 1.5 peppers are generally suitable for this quantity of meat.

3. Add Essentials: Stir in a tablespoon of salt, a pinch of sugar, and a tablespoon of olive oil. This mixture forms the base of your marinade.

4. Release Onion Juice: With clean hands, massage the mixture until the onions begin releasing their juices. This action helps the salt interact more with the onions rather than directly with the meat.

5. Alternative Method: If preferred, pass onions through a meat grinder and drain the juice to use for soaking the meat. The onion juice is key in tenderizing the meat.

6. Combine with Meat: Once the onions are well-massaged, mix them thoroughly with the pork chops.

7. Allow to Marinate: Seal the mixture in a container or cover and refrigerate for 24 hours. This time allows the flavors to infuse the meat deeply.

8. Prepare for Cooking: Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.

9. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high.

10. Skewering: Thread the marinated pork onto skewers, ensuring even distribution for uniform cooking.

11. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and exhibits a slight char, approximately 10-15 minutes.

12. Check for Doneness: Ensure the pork is cooked, reaching an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).

13. Rest the Skewers: Allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving, letting the juices redistribute.

14. Serve and Enjoy: Pair with your chosen sides and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips

• Grating Onions: The finer you grate the onions, the more juice you'll yield, enhancing the marinade.
• Chili Heat: Adjust chili quantities based on your guests' preference. Too spicy? Use paprika instead.
• Resting Time: Let the meat rest before serving for the most flavorful and juicy bites.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 8g

Variations

• Chicken Alternative: Substitute pork with chicken breast or thighs for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Version: Use firm tofu or halloumi as a delicious meat-free alternative.
• Sweet Touch: Add honey to the marinade for a sweet and spicy combination.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve with roasted vegetables, pilaf, or fresh green salad.
• Garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or mint adds vibrant flavor.
• Beverage Pairings: Complements well with a chilled white wine or a zesty lemonade.

Best Places

• [Restaurant Salt & Pepper] - Renowned for its innovative grill dishes. Location: 123 Flavor St, New York, USA.
• [Chili's Haven] - Known for delightful spicy offerings. Location: 45 Pepper Rd, London, UK.
• [The Grill House] - Offers a wide variety of skewered meats. Location: 67 BBQ Lane, Sydney, Australia.
• [Spice & Skewer] - Famous for its unique marinades. Location: 90 Aroma Blvd, Toronto, Canada.
• [Marinade Magic] - Blends global flavors expertly. Location: 32 Taste Ave, Singapore, Singapore.
• [Skewer Bistro] - Popular among locals for its cozy setting and delicious skewers. Location: 21 Cook St, Bangkok, Thailand.
• [Grill Express] - Perfect stop for quick, flavorful meals. Location: 7 Express Way, Berlin, Germany.
• [Savory Bites] - Offers a mix of contemporary and traditional skewered meals. Location: 56 Delish Dr, Dubai, UAE.
• [Pork & Spice] - Specializes in pork-based dishes with a spicy twist. Location: 12 Savory Ln, Rome, Italy.
• [Flavor Fields] - Known for using fresh, local ingredients. Location: Farm to Table, Cape Town, South Africa.