Apricots are good value now and will only be around for a short time but you could also use a tin of apricots for this when they’re no longer available. You will need to brine the pork the day before you want to cook but it’s a very simple process so don’t let that put you off and the result is worth the effort.
Wine Suggestion: It’s very humid and warm in Dublin, though with very little sunshine this summer, so we’re drinking more whites and Rosé. Tonight was no different with a Grenache Blanc – Grenache Gris blend from 100 year old vines; the Domaine of the Bee Field of the Bee. Capturing the southern French sunshine this feels like stepping back in time with hints of garrigue and wild herbs, while keeping a view on the future with a vibrant freshness and purity.
Barbecued pork with apricots – serves 4
- 50g sea salt flakes
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp treacle
- 4 large pork chops
- 6 ripe apricots, halved
FOR THE SAUCE:
- 100ml extra virgin olive oil
- zest and juice of 1 lime
- a big handful of coriander, leaves and stalks finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1-2 tsp honey
Make the brine by pouring 250ml of boiling water into a jug, then adding the salt, sugar and treacle and stirring until dissolved. Top up with cold water to get 500ml, then leave to cool completely.
Cut a few slashes through the fat on each pork chop. Place them into a freezer bag and pour over the cold brine. Tie the bag tightly and leave in the fridge for 24 hours.
Make the sauce by putting the oil, lime zest and juice, coriander and garlic to a bowl and whisk together well. Season and add the honey to taste. Set aside.
Get the barbecue hot.
Drizzle a little oil over the cut sides of the apricots. Drain the pork and discard the brine, then pat dry with paper towels. Drizzle a little oil over these too.
Grill the pork and apricots on the barbecue, turning often. Serve the pork with the apricots alongside and the sauce drizzled over.
(Original recipe from Seared by Genevieve Taylor, Quadrille, 2022.)
Jono & Jules do food & wine 
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