What is Karkówka z Grila?
Karkówka z Grila means “grilled pork shoulder” in Polish. It’s a well-loved dish in Poland, especially during the summer.
The pork shoulder, known for its tenderness and flavor, is marinated with garlic, herbs, and spices, then grilled until it’s nicely charred on the outside and juicy inside.
This dish is a must-have at Polish barbecues and pairs well with a variety of sides.
Why I Love This Recipe for Polish Grilled Pork Shoulder
This recipe is one of my favorites because it makes the pork shoulder taste amazing. The marinade adds so much flavor, and grilling gives it a nice crispy texture while keeping the meat juicy.
It’s also a versatile dish that goes well with many different sides, making it perfect for any barbecue or family dinner. Plus, it’s simple to make with ingredients you probably already have at home.
Key Ingredients
Pork Shoulder: A flavorful cut of meat that stays juicy when grilled.
Garlic: Adds a strong, aromatic flavor to the marinade.
Salt: Essential for seasoning the pork and enhancing its natural flavors.
Black Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complements the other spices.
Paprika: Gives the pork a smoky, sweet flavor.
Marjoram: A classic herb in Polish cooking that adds a unique taste.
Olive Oil: Helps to blend the flavors in the marinade and keeps the pork moist while grilling.
How to Store Grilled Pork Shoulder?
Store any leftover grilled pork shoulder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, and then warm gently in the oven or on the stovetop.
How to Serve?
Serve Polish Grilled Pork Shoulder hot from the grill. It goes well with mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with traditional Polish sides like sauerkraut or potato pancakes. Garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor and a nice presentation.
Expert Tips
Marinating Time: Marinate the pork shoulder for at least 2 hours for the best flavor. Overnight marinating is even better.
Grilling Technique: Use indirect heat on the grill to cook the pork evenly without burning it. This means placing the pork on a cooler part of the grill.
Resting the Meat: Let the grilled pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the meat juicy.
Alternative Cooking Method: If you don’t have a grill, you can sear the pork on the stovetop and finish cooking it in the oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Variations and Substitutions
Different Cuts of Pork: You can also use pork loin or pork chops instead of pork shoulder. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Herb Variations: Try using other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor.
Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade if you like it spicy.
Vegetarian Option: Use thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms and follow the same marinating and grilling process.
Print
Polish Grilled Pork Shoulder (Karkówka z Grila)
- Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Polish Grilled Pork Shoulder, or Karkówka z Grila, is a delicious and easy dish featuring marinated pork shoulder grilled to perfection. Perfect for summer barbecues, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp marjoram
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: On a cutting board, trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cut the pork into 1-inch thick cutlets.
- Marinate the Pork: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, marjoram, and olive oil. Rub this mixture evenly over the pork cutlets. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. For indirect cooking, ensure one side of the grill is hotter than the other.
- Grill the Pork: Place the pork cutlets on the hotter side of the grill. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until you achieve a nice crust. Move the pork to the cooler side of the grill and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice to the marinade.
Serve with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main dish
- Method: Grill
- Cuisine: Polish
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 35g
Nutrition Information
This website offers estimated nutritional details, which may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork loin or pork chops instead of pork shoulder. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as these cuts may cook faster.
How long should I marinate the pork?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork for at least 2 hours. However, marinating overnight will yield the most flavorful results.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover grilled pork shoulder. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
