Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This recipe for cubed pork steaks is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual dinner party. Tender pork cubes, bursting with savory flavor, are cooked to perfection in a flavorful sauce. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both satisfying and healthy. Ready to dive in? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless pork loin, 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
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Season the pork cubes generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the natural flavor of the pork.
Sear the Pork:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and sear on all sides until nicely browned. This process helps lock in the juices and adds a delicious depth of flavor. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Combine and Finish:
- Return the seared pork cubes to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and tender. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C).
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over cooked rice or quinoa.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Cubed Pork Steaks:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the pork cubes in batches to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices to your liking. A little experimentation can lead to your perfect flavor profile.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure that your pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Sweet and Sour: Increase the brown sugar and add a splash of rice vinegar for a sweet and sour twist.
- Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple during the last 5 minutes of simmering for a tropical flair.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe for cubed pork steaks is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!