Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This pork loin cube steak recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, these cube steaks are a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. It’s a delicious dish the whole family will love, and it's surprisingly simple even for homemade cooking beginners. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs pork loin, cut into 1-inch thick cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
Get started:
- Pat the pork loin cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
Season and Coat:
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge each pork cube in the flour mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Sear the Steaks:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
Simmer to Perfection:
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Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
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Cover the skillet and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature and result in steaming instead of searing.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker cubes may require a few more minutes of cooking time.
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Variations:
- Garlic Lovers: Add more garlic powder or minced fresh garlic to the flour mixture.
- Herb Infusion: Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, to the flour mixture.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
This easy recipe for pork loin cube steaks offers a delicious and healthy meal option. The simple steps, combined with the versatility of variations, make this a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Enjoy your homemade cooking experience and this delightful dish!