Are you craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that's surprisingly quick and easy to prepare? Look no further! This recipe for pork sirloin cubed steak is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Tender pork cubes, seasoned to perfection, become juicy and delicious with minimal effort. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that delivers big on taste without demanding hours in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for those searching for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and easy recipes. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs pork sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or mashed potatoes (for serving)
Instructions:
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Season the Pork: In a bowl, combine the pork cubes with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and the thyme. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This simple step elevates the taste significantly.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers; cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
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Brown the Pork: Add the seasoned pork cubes to the skillet. Sear them on all sides until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning. This step is key to developing a rich flavor.
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Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, remaining soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and tender. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more broth.
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Spice it Up (Optional): If you enjoy a bit of heat, stir in the red pepper flakes during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over cooked rice or mashed potatoes. This dish is equally delicious on its own or as part of a larger meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the pork, work in batches to ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, brown sugar, or red pepper flakes to suit your preferences.
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the pork is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C).
Delicious Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Change the herbs: Experiment with different herbs and spices like rosemary, oregano, or paprika.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for a creamy sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 6 servings. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This pork sirloin cubed steak recipe is a true winner – a delicious, healthy, and easy meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a testament to the power of simple, homemade cooking and a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy!