Qatari-style Smoked Pork Chops with Spiced Rice

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional German Kassler is transformed into a Qatari-style dish by incorporating Qatari spices and flavors. The original German recipe typically uses smoked pork chops, which are marinated and then grilled or pan-fried. However, in this Qatari version, the pork chops are still smoked but are marinated with Qatari spices and cooked in a different style. Additionally, the original German dish is often served with sauerkraut and potatoes, but in the Qatari adaptation, it is paired with fragrant spiced rice, which complements the flavors of the pork chops. We alse have the original recipe for Kassler, so you can check it out.

• 4 smoked pork chops (Kassler) 4 smoked pork chops (Kassler)
• 2 tablespoons Qatari spice blend (cumin, coriander, turmeric) 2 tablespoons Qatari spice blend (cumin, coriander, turmeric)
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups (400g) basmati rice 2 cups (400g) basmati rice
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 4 cardamom pods, crushed 4 cardamom pods, crushed
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the Qatari spice blend, salt, and black pepper.
3. 3.
   Rub the spice mixture all over the smoked pork chops.
4. 4.
   Drizzle the olive oil over the pork chops and let them marinate for 30 minutes.
5. 5.
   Meanwhile, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
6. 6.
   In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
7. 7.
   Add the rinsed rice, saffron threads, crushed cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick to the pot.
8. 8.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
9. 9.
   In the meantime, grill the marinated pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice char.
10. 10.
    Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
11. 11.
    In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
12. 12.
    Add the cooked rice to the pan and toss it gently to coat it with the butter.
13. 13.
    Remove the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods from the rice.
14. 14.
    Serve the Qatari-style smoked pork chops on a bed of spiced rice.
15. 15.
    Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Smoked pork chops — Ensure that the smoked pork chops are fully cooked but not overcooked to maintain their tenderness and smoky flavor.
• Qatari spice blend — Adjust the spice blend according to your preference for spiciness. You can also add a pinch of chili powder for an extra kick.
• Basmati rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy grains. Be careful not to overcook the rice to maintain its texture.

Tips & Tricks

• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also cook the pork chops in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• For a more vibrant color and flavor, soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm water before adding them to the rice.
• Serve the dish with a side of traditional Qatari pickles for a tangy contrast to the smoky pork chops.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Qatari spice blend used in the marinade.
• Leftover pork chops can be sliced and used in sandwiches or salads the next day.

Serving advice

Serve the Qatari-style Smoked Pork Chops with Spiced Rice as a main course for lunch or dinner. Accompany it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled pork chops on a bed of fragrant spiced rice on individual plates. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. For an elegant touch, you can also sprinkle some edible rose petals over the dish.