Are you looking for a delicious and easy dinner recipe that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This recipe for thin-sliced pork shoulder is your answer. It's a fantastic example of how simple ingredients and a few clever techniques can create a truly satisfying and healthy meal, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper. This dish is incredibly versatile – easily adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs, making it a true staple for your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb thin-sliced pork shoulder (also known as pork steak)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
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Season the Pork: Pat the thin-sliced pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Sear the Pork: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork slices and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Braising the Pork: Return the seared pork 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 cooking time will depend on the thickness of your pork slices.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges. This flavorful dish pairs perfectly with rice, roasted vegetables, or even crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the pork, work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Use bone-in pork shoulder: For an even richer flavor, you can use bone-in thin-sliced pork shoulder. The bone adds depth and enhances the overall taste.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for a more substantial meal.
Variations:
- Mexican-inspired: Add a can of drained corn and black beans for a southwestern twist.
- Caribbean flavors: Incorporate a touch of brown sugar, allspice, and a squeeze of lime juice for a Caribbean-inspired dish.
- Garlic lovers: Add extra garlic, or consider using garlic powder in addition to the minced garlic for an intensified garlicky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This quick and easy recipe for thin-sliced pork shoulder is a perfect example of delicious and healthy eating, offering a fantastic quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and simple to prepare. Enjoy!