Pork cube steak is a versatile and budget-friendly cut of meat that can be transformed into a mouthwatering meal with the right cooking techniques. If you’re looking for an easy and satisfying dish, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to cook pork cube steak that’s tender, flavorful, and sure to impress your family and friends.
What is Pork Cube Steak?
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s clarify what pork cube steak actually is. Pork cube steak is a cut of pork that has been tenderized and flattened by a mechanical tenderizer, resulting in a cube-like appearance. This process breaks down the tough muscle fibers, making the meat more tender and easier to cook. It’s an affordable option that’s perfect for quick and easy meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pork cube steaks
- All-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
- Butter (optional, for added flavor)
- Beef broth
- Onions, sliced
- Mushrooms, sliced
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Pork:
- Start by patting the pork cube steaks dry with paper towels. This helps the flour adhere better and promotes browning.
- Season the Flour:
- In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Adjust the amounts to your taste preferences.
- Coat the Pork:
- Dredge each pork cube steak in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated on both sides. Shake off any excess flour.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sizzle when the pork is added.
- Sear the Pork:
- Carefully place the floured pork cube steaks in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. If you’re using butter, add a tablespoon to the pan during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor.
- Remove and Set Aside:
- Once the pork cube steaks are browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté them until they’re softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the Gravy:
- Pour the beef broth into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits add a ton of flavor to the gravy.
- Thicken the Gravy (optional):
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering gravy, stirring constantly until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Return the Pork:
- Gently place the seared pork cube steaks back into the skillet with the gravy.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the pork simmer in the gravy for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s tender and cooked through.
- Check for Doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the pork cube steaks rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Tips for the Perfect Pork Cube Steak
- Don’t Overcook: Pork cube steak can become tough if overcooked, so keep a close eye on it and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.
- Use a Hot Skillet: A hot skillet is essential for achieving a good sear on the pork, which adds flavor and texture.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the flour and the gravy generously with your favorite herbs and spices.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flour mixture or the gravy.
- Get Creative with the Gravy: Experiment with different flavors by adding ingredients like garlic, herbs, or a splash of wine to the gravy.
- Tenderizing: While pork cube steak is already tenderized, you can further tenderize it by pounding it with a meat mallet before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Pork cube steak is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Mashed potatoes and gravy
- Rice and steamed vegetables
- Roasted sweet potatoes and green beans
- Egg noodles and a side salad
Variations to Try
- Creamy Mushroom Gravy: Add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the gravy for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Smothered Pork Cube Steak: Top the cooked pork cube steaks with sautéed onions, peppers, and a generous helping of gravy.
- Pork Cube Steak Sandwiches: Serve the cooked pork cube steaks on toasted buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftover pork cube steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cooked pork cube steak in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Skillet: Reheat the pork cube steak in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of oil or butter. Add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist.
- Microwave: Reheat in the microwave on medium power, checking and stirring frequently until heated through.
- Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Conclusion
With this guide, you now have all the knowledge you need to cook pork cube steak like a pro. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers delicious results every time. So go ahead, grab some pork cube steak, and get cooking!
Pork cube steak is a budget-friendly and versatile option for a quick and delicious meal, and I hope this guide inspires you to try it out and make it your own. Happy cooking!