Grilled Pork Crown Roast - Christmas Grilling Series

Grilled Pork Crown Roast - Christmas Grilling Series

For a showstopping holiday centerpiece, embrace the spirit of the season with a Grilled Pork Crown Roast. While ham or turkey may traditionally take the spotlight, this dish offers a refreshing alternative that’s as stunning as it is flavorful. The dramatic presentation of a crown roast and the smoky depth achieved on the grill creates an unforgettable main course for your Christmas celebration.

A blend of a sweet-and-savory rub and a butter-based baste with hints of pineapple and bourbon enhances the natural flavor of the pork while adding a touch of holiday cheer. For an extra festive flair, consider using apple or cherry wood chips for a subtle fruity smoke that beautifully complements the roast.

With this recipe, you can bring the warmth and joy of outdoor cooking to your holiday preparation, giving your meal a special touch that’s perfect for the occasion. Each tender rib chop, carefully carved from the roast, pairs wonderfully with holiday favorites like cranberry sauce or roasted root vegetables. This Christmas, make the Grilled Pork Crown Roast the centerpiece of your table and enjoy a flavorful tradition that will delight your family and guests alike.

Serves 8

Grilled Pork Crown Roast Ingredients

• 1 bone-in pork crown roast 10-12 bones
• 1/2 cup Basic Pork Rub
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For baste:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice (sub with orange, peach, or mango juice)
• 1/4 cup real maple syrup (use more for a sweeter baste)
• 2 tablespoons bourbon

Grilled Pork Crown Roast Directions

1. If your crown roast is not tied, coat the meat sides with oil and season well with a pork rub. Let it stand at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, then tie it. Wrap the bones with aluminum foil to keep them from discoloring during cooking.
2. If the roast is purchased tied, you will need to gently work the oil into the rib sections, then repeat the process with the pork rub.
3. Preheat your grill or smoker to 350 degrees F or medium heat. For extra smoky flavor, use apple, cherry, pecan, or alder wood.
4. Place roast onto the grill, bone side up, close the lid, and cook for 2 - 2.5 hours, or 14 minutes per pound of meat.
5. *You can also place a drip pan underneath the roast to catch the juices.
6. Heat the ingredients for the baste in a small saucepan over medium-low heat for a few minutes until they have melted through.
7. Gently baste the roast with the mixture during the last 30-35 minutes of cooking time. Aim for a doneness temperature of 145 degrees F.
8. Remove the pork crown roast from the grill and place it on a cutting board, tenting it with aluminum foil. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes.
9. Cut off the twine and remove the foil from the bones. Cut between the bones to create individual rib chops. Serve pork with herb-compound butter or brown gravy. It is also delicious with warmed fig jam or cranberry sauce.

Taken from derrickriches.com