Pork has long been an American staple at backyard BBQs. But what is pork steak, and how does it differ from other cuts of pork? In this post, we will delve into the answer, how to marinate pork steak, and some differences from pork chops.
What Is Pork Steak?
Pork steak is a flavorful cut of meat sliced from the shoulder of the pig. This well-marbled meat is versatile and can be used for grilling, pan-frying, or braising.
In some regions, it’s also known as a Boston butt steak or pork blade steak. Due to its marbling and fat content, pork steak is great for grilling as it stays juicy and tender.
What Is Pork Steak Vs. Pork Chop?
Both pork steak and pork chops are cuts of pork. Pork chops are perfect for oven-baked and pork steak tastes best right off the grill. However, they differ in their source within the pig and preparation. Here’s a table outlining the main differences between pork steak and pork chop:
| Pork steak | Pork chop | |
| Cut | From the shoulder or blade area | From the loin section |
| Texture | More marbled and fatty | Leaner and less fatty |
| Cooking methods | Suited for grilling and braising | Grilling, frying, or baking |
| Flavor | Rich, intense pork flavor | Milder pork flavor |
| Cost | Cheaper | More expensive |
For those who don’t know, pork chops are cuts of pork meat derived from the loin, typically bone-in, a lengthy and lean muscle that extends along the pig’s back. Pork chops come in various cuts, each with distinct characteristics and names, including Shoulder chop, Rib chop, Boneless chop, Sirloin chop, and Loin chop.
Pork Steak Marinade
Seasoning pork steaks is the key to enhancing their flavor. In the US, various ingredients are used to create a well-balanced mix. Here are some popular seasonings and ingredients:
- Soy sauce: It’s commonly used to provide a deep, umami flavor to pork steaks.
- Brown sugar: Brown sugar contributes sweetness and helps caramelize the surface of the pork steaks, creating crust.
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Worcestershire sauce
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Dried herbs
- Onion powder
What To Serve With Pork Steaks?
Pairing pork steak with the right side dishes can elevate the dining experience. A classic choice is vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, stir-fried vegetables, or lightly sautéed zucchini all make excellent accompaniments. Their freshness and flavors add balance to the rich taste of the pork.
Potatoes are another popular choice, providing a hearty and satisfying element to the meal. You can opt for roasted sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness or go traditional with mashed potatoes. If you prefer lower-carb options, consider mashed cauliflower or roasted rutabaga for a lighter alternative.
Cheesy casseroles are fantastic for larger gatherings or when you’re in the mood for comfort food. Dishes like loaded cauliflower casserole, zucchini casserole, yellow squash casserole, or asparagus casserole offer a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
For those seeking a slight option, salads are a choice to serve with this shoulder steak. Try a pear salad with its combination of crisp greens and the sweetness of pears, a kale crunch salad for a satisfying crunch, or a spring mix salad for a fresh and vibrant side dish.
What Is Pork Steak Vs Ribeye?
Here’s a simple comparison between pork steak and ribeye:
| Pork Steak | Ribeye Steak | |
|---|---|---|
| Meat origin | Pork | Beef |
| Flavor | Rich and porky | Intensely beefy |
| Marbling | Less marbling, leaner | High marbling, more fat |
| Texture | Tender and juicy | Tender with a good amount of fat |
| Cooking methods | Versatile, great for grilling, pan-searing, or baking | Often grilled or pan-seared for maximum flavor |
| Price | Typically more affordable | Can be pricier due to higher marbling |
While both cuts have their merits, pork shoulder steak tends to be more budget-friendly and can be prepared in various ways. Ribeye is a beef lover’s delight, offering a luxurious and savory experience when cooked to perfection.
Pork Steak Recipes
Ingredients
Pork
- 1.5 lbs pork shoulder (cut into 4 shoulder blade steaks)
- 1/2 tablespoon cooking oil (if pan-frying)
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup flavorful lager (such as Czech pils, Munich helles, dunkel, or bock)
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced garlic)
- 1/2 tablespoon cumin
- 1/2 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano (or 3-4 sprigs of fresh)
Instructions
- Remove the marinated steaks from the fridge and let them come to room temperature.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F for gas or 375°F for charcoal with coals lightly covered in ash). If using a grill pan on the stovetop, heat it over medium-high heat.
- Scrape off the marinade from the steaks and discard it.
- Grill the steaks for 5-8 minutes on each side, depending on their thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for well-done. Season with salt and pepper shortly before flipping them on the first side and a few minutes before removing them from the grill on the other side. The juices should run clear.
- Allow the steaks to rest for 3-5 minutes, loosely tented with foil (optional), before slicing.
FAQs
How to cook pork steak tender?
To cook pork steak tender, start by marinating it for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavors and tenderize the meat. Then, use a cooking method like grilling, pan-searing, or baking, being mindful not to overcook it. Pork steak should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and should rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices and tenderness.
What is pork sirloin?
Pork sirloin is a cut of meat taken from the pig’s sirloin area, which is located in the lower back portion. It’s a relatively lean and tender cut, often used for grilling, roasting, or pan-searing, and it can be sliced into steaks or left whole for various cooking methods.
What is pork loin?
Pork loin is a prime cut of pork that comes from the area along the pig’s back. It is known for being a lean and tender cut, making it a popular choice for roasts and chops. Pork loin can be prepared in various ways, including roasting, grilling, or pan-searing, and it’s a versatile cut used in a wide range of dishes.
References:
- Pork steak – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pork_steak
- Pork chop – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pork_chop
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