If you’re a fan of BBQ, then you’ve probably heard of Kansas City-style BBQ. Known for its sweet and peppery sauce, this style of BBQ is a melting pot of flavors and meats.
But have you ever heard of Kansas City pork chops?
These delicious cuts of meat are marinated in a dry rub, grilled to perfection, and then brushed with BBQ sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
In this article, we’ll dive into what makes Kansas City pork chops so special and how you can prepare them at home.
So grab your apron and get ready to fire up the grill!
What Are Kansas City Pork Chops?
Kansas City pork chops are a type of pork chop that is marinated in a dry rub made up of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. The pork chops are then grilled until they are cooked through and brushed with BBQ sauce before being served.
What sets Kansas City pork chops apart from other types of pork chops is the unique combination of flavors that come from the dry rub and BBQ sauce. The brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness, while the paprika and chili powder give the pork chops a bit of heat. The garlic and onion powder add depth of flavor, and the BBQ sauce ties everything together with its tangy and sweet notes.
The History Of Kansas City Pork Chops
The origins of Kansas City pork chops can be traced back to the early days of the city’s thriving meatpacking industry. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Kansas City was a major hub for the processing and distribution of meat, with numerous packing houses and slaughterhouses in the area.
During this time, pork chops became a popular cut of meat among Kansas City residents. The double-thick, bone-in chops were especially prized for their tenderness and flavor, and local butchers began to develop their own unique methods for preparing and seasoning them.
Over time, a distinctive style of pork chop emerged in Kansas City, characterized by its bold flavors and smoky, grilled taste. The dry rub used to season the chops typically includes a blend of spices and herbs that reflects the city’s love of barbecue, while the use of BBQ sauce as a finishing touch is a nod to Kansas City’s status as a BBQ mecca.
Today, Kansas City pork chops remain a beloved local specialty, served up in restaurants and homes throughout the city. Whether grilled or pan-fried, these flavorful chops are a testament to the rich culinary traditions of this vibrant Midwestern metropolis.
What Makes Kansas City Pork Chops Unique
One of the key factors that make Kansas City pork chops unique is the dry rub that is used to season them. This dry rub is made up of a combination of spices and seasonings that are carefully balanced to create a complex and flavorful taste. The use of brown sugar in the rub adds a subtle sweetness to the pork chops, while the chili powder and cayenne pepper provide a slight kick of heat.
Another unique feature of Kansas City pork chops is the way they are cooked. These pork chops are typically grilled, which gives them a smoky flavor and a slightly charred exterior. The grilling process also helps to seal in the juices, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
Finally, Kansas City pork chops are often served with a tangy BBQ sauce that complements the flavors of the dry rub. This sauce is made with a combination of ketchup, molasses, cider vinegar, and other ingredients, and is brushed onto the pork chops during the last few minutes of grilling. The result is a dish that is both sweet and savory, with a perfect balance of flavors.
How To Choose The Right Cut Of Pork For Kansas City Pork Chops
When it comes to making Kansas City pork chops, choosing the right cut of pork is crucial. The best cut of pork for Kansas City pork chops is a bone-in, double thick cut of pork loin chops. You can purchase a bone-in pork rib roast and cut your own pork chops, or have your butcher do it for you.
It’s important to note that not all pork chops are created equal. Thin pork chops are great for pan- or deep-frying, but they won’t work for Kansas City pork chops. The double thickness of the pork chops is necessary to hold up to the dry rub and BBQ sauce without becoming overcooked or dry.
When selecting your pork chops, look for ones that are well-marbled with fat. This will ensure that the pork chops stay juicy and tender during cooking. You can also ask your butcher for recommendations on the best cuts of pork for grilling or smoking.
The Perfect Dry Rub For Kansas City Pork Chops
To make the perfect dry rub for Kansas City pork chops, start by combining 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of paprika, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper in a bowl. Mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
Next, use your hands to firmly rub the seasoning directly onto the surface of the pork chops. Be sure to get all sides of each piece of meat. Let the meat sit for a while so the seasoning can sink in. In some cases, 15 minutes is enough, but it’s recommended to let it sit for at least 2 hours or even overnight (in the refrigerator) to really let it absorb.
This seasoning mix was created to bring out and complement the flavor of pork. So it’s a little bit sweet, but mostly savory. The sweetness of brown sugar is a great balance to the natural savoriness of pork. The combination of cumin, thyme, oregano, and mustard all mix beautifully with pork as well. And chili powder and paprika both add spice without overpowering.
To make a larger batch, just increase each spice while keeping to the same ratios. Double the amount of each ingredient, and you’ll have plenty to store for later.
Grilling Techniques For Kansas City Pork Chops
Grilling Kansas City pork chops is a straightforward process, but there are a few techniques that can ensure that the pork chops come out perfectly cooked and full of flavor. Here are some grilling techniques for Kansas City pork chops:
1. Marinate the pork chops: To get the most flavor out of the dry rub, it’s best to marinate the pork chops for at least a few hours before grilling. You can even marinate them overnight to let the flavors penetrate the meat more deeply.
2. Preheat the grill: It’s important to preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375-400 degrees) for at least 20 minutes before grilling. This will ensure that the grill grates are hot enough to sear the pork chops and prevent sticking.
3. Cook on indirect heat: Once the grill is preheated, move the pork chops to indirect heat or lower the temperature to medium. This will prevent them from burning or drying out.
4. Don’t flip too often: Resist the urge to flip the pork chops too often while grilling. Let them cook for 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, before flipping them over. This will allow a nice crust to form on each side.
5. Baste with BBQ sauce: During the last 2 minutes of cooking, baste the pork chops with your favorite BBQ sauce. This will add an extra layer of flavor and help keep them moist.
6. Rest before serving: Once the pork chops are cooked through, remove them from the grill and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and make for a more tender and juicy chop.
By following these grilling techniques, you can ensure that your Kansas City pork chops come out perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor every time.
Brushing On The BBQ Sauce: Tips And Tricks
Brushing on the BBQ sauce is a crucial step in making Kansas City pork chops. However, it’s important to do it at the right time to avoid burning the sauce. Here are some tips and tricks for brushing on the BBQ sauce:
1. Wait until the last few minutes of grilling: Brushing on the BBQ sauce too early can cause it to burn due to the sugars in the sauce. Wait until the last few minutes of grilling before brushing on the sauce.
2. Use a basting brush: A basting brush is the best tool for applying BBQ sauce to your pork chops. It allows you to evenly coat the pork chops with sauce without making a mess.
3. Don’t overdo it: While BBQ sauce adds a lot of flavor to Kansas City pork chops, it’s important not to overdo it. Too much sauce can overpower the flavors of the dry rub and make the pork chops too sweet.
4. Let it caramelize: Once you’ve brushed on the BBQ sauce, let it cook for a minute or two to caramelize slightly. This will give your pork chops a nice glaze and enhance their flavor.
By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your Kansas City pork chops are perfectly cooked, flavorful, and not burnt.