Pork steak is a delicious and affordable cut of meat that can be cooked quickly and easily, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. If you’ve ever wondered how do you cook a pork steak to get that perfect balance of juicy tenderness and a crispy, caramelized crust, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the best methods, tips, and tricks to make mouthwatering pork steaks every time.
What Is Pork Steak?
Pork steak usually comes from the shoulder or blade part of the pig. It’s thicker and more marbled than a typical pork chop, which means it has more fat and connective tissue that melts during cooking, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak. Because of this, pork steak is ideal for pan-searing, braising, or grilling.
Preparing Your Pork Steak
Before cooking, it’s important to prepare your pork steak well to maximize flavor and tenderness.
– Marinate for More Flavor: Marinating pork steaks in a mixture of soy sauce and citrus juice (like lime or calamansi) for at least an hour, or overnight if possible, infuses the meat with savory and tangy notes that balance its richness.
– Dry and Season: Pat the pork dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Then season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spice rub. A simple rub of brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder works wonders to create a caramelized crust.
Cooking Methods for Pork Steak
1. Pan-Searing on the Stove
Pan-searing is one of the quickest and easiest ways to cook pork steak, giving you a crisp exterior and juicy inside in about 10 minutes.
– Heat a tablespoon of oil (like avocado oil) in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
– Add the seasoned pork steaks and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until nicely browned.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
– Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
2. Braising for Tenderness
If you prefer a more tender, fall-apart texture, braising is a great option.
– After searing the pork steaks, remove excess oil from the pan.
– Add the marinade and some water or broth, then bring to a boil.
– Reduce heat and simmer gently for about 45 minutes, until the pork is tender and infused with the sauce.
– Add sliced onions near the end to soften and caramelize, enhancing the dish’s flavor.
3. Oven-Baking
For hands-off cooking, baking pork steaks in the oven is convenient and yields juicy results.
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Season pork steaks and sear them briefly in a hot skillet to brown both sides.
– Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
– Rest before serving to keep the meat moist.
Bonus: Adding Flavorful Sides
While cooking pork steaks, you can sauté onions, mushrooms, and garlic in the same pan to create a savory topping or sauce. Adding herbs like thyme and a splash of chicken broth can elevate the dish further.
Tips for Perfect Pork Steaks Every Time
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even browning.
– Use a meat thermometer: Pork is safe to eat at 145°F, and this prevents overcooking.
– Rest your meat: Letting pork steaks rest after cooking keeps them juicy.
– Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sugar in your sauce for balanced flavor.
– Try different spice rubs: Customize your pork steak with spices like cumin, chili powder, or rosemary to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pork steak pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. Drizzle some of the pan sauce or braising liquid over the steak for extra flavor.
Cooking pork steak is straightforward and rewarding. Whether you prefer a quick pan-sear or a slow-simmered braise, the key is seasoning well and cooking to the right temperature. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful pork steak with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.
Juicy, tender pork steak is easier to make than you think-just follow these simple steps and enjoy!