Grilled Javelina Chops
Javelina Recipe
1Setup & Prepare
About This Recipe
Marinated javelina chops grilled over high heat—simple preparation showcasing quality meat.
Cultural Context
(130 words) Grilled chops represent simple, direct cooking that lets quality meat shine. While pork chops are American dinner staple, javelina chops offer leaner, more flavorful alternative when properly prepared. Southwestern hunters have refined the technique for javelina: aggressive marination compensates for leanness, high-heat grilling develops flavorful crust, and finishing at medium doneness preserves moisture. This preparation has become popular for weeknight dinners and backyard cookouts throughout Arizona and Texas. The technique requires minimal ingredients and cooking time, making it accessible preparation that showcases javelina's quality. Quick marinating, hot grilling, and proper resting create restaurant-quality results from simple technique. These chops prove wild game doesn't require elaborate preparation—sometimes the best cooking is the simplest, letting excellent protein speak for itself.
2Ingredients
Shopping List
3Cooking Instructions
- Whisk together all marinade ingredients in bowl. Place chops in large resealable bag or container and pour marinade over. Refrigerate for minimum 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
- Remove chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling. Remove from marinade and pat completely dry with paper towels.
- Preheat grill to high heat (450-500°F). Clean grates thoroughly and oil well to prevent sticking.
- Season chops generously with salt on both sides just before grilling.
- Grill chops for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness (145°F internal temperature). Don't move them during cooking—let crust develop.
- Remove chops to plate, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve immediately with grilled vegetables, chimichurri sauce, and lime wedges.
4Chef's Notes & Pairings
Chef's Notes
- Drying chops after marinating is essential for proper crust formation.
- Don't overcook—javelina chops become dry beyond medium doneness.
- Use instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
- The marinade's acid tenderizes while adding flavor and moisture.
- Let chops rest—cutting immediately causes juice loss.
Wine Pairing
Malbec or Mexican Craft Beer – Argentine Malbec's bold fruit complements char, or try hoppy Mexican IPA.
Nutrition Facts
(per serving) Calories: 295 | Protein: 38g | Fat: 14g | Carbohydrates: 4g | Iron: 4.2mg
