Pork steak with gravy is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. This classic recipe combines tender and juicy pork steak with a rich and flavorful gravy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty meal, this dish is sure to impress.
The key to cooking pork steak with gravy is to start with high-quality meat. Look for pork steaks that are well-marbled with a good ratio of fat to meat. This will ensure that your steaks are tender and flavorful. Before cooking, season the steaks with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
To cook the pork steak, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add some oil. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside to rest.
While the steaks are resting, prepare the gravy. In the same skillet, add some butter and onions and cook them until they are soft and caramelized. Next, sprinkle some flour over the onions and cook for a minute, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in some beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat and simmer the gravy until it thickens.
Once the gravy has thickened, return the pork steaks to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through. Serve the pork steak with the savory gravy spooned over the top. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Preparing the pork steak
Before cooking the pork steak, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready. Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing the pork steak:
- Take the pork steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help it cook more evenly.
- Season the pork steak with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add any other desired seasonings, such as garlic powder or paprika, for extra flavor.
- Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan and let it melt.
- Once the pan is hot, carefully place the pork steak in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
- Remove the pork steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes the meat more tender.
Now that the pork steak is prepared, you can proceed to make the delicious gravy to accompany it. This will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.
Choosing the right cut
When it comes to cooking the perfect pork steak with gravy, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. There are several cuts of pork that are suitable for this dish, but some are more tender and flavorful than others.
Pork loin chops
Pork loin chops are a popular choice for pork steaks. They are cut from the loin, which is located along the back of the pig and is known for its tenderness. Loin chops have a nice marbling of fat, which adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking.
When selecting pork loin chops for this dish, look for ones that are about 1 inch thick. Thicker chops will take longer to cook, while thinner chops may dry out on the grill.
Boneless pork shoulder
Another option for pork steaks is boneless pork shoulder. This cut is taken from the shoulder of the pig and is known for its rich flavor. While it may not be as tender as pork loin, it can still be delicious when cooked properly.
When choosing boneless pork shoulder for this dish, look for a well-marbled piece of meat with a good amount of fat. The fat will render down during cooking and help keep the meat moist.
Tip: If you prefer a leaner cut of meat, you can trim some of the excess fat from the pork shoulder before cooking.
With these tips in mind, you can choose the right cut of pork for your pork steak with gravy recipe. Whichever cut you choose, be sure to marinate the meat before cooking to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
Marinating the Steak
Marinating the pork steak is an essential step to add flavor and tenderness to the meat. Follow these instructions to marinate the steak:
1. Choose your marinade
There are various marinades you can use to enhance the flavor of your pork steak. Some popular options include:
- Soy sauce and garlic marinade
- Brown sugar and mustard marinade
- Teriyaki marinade
Experiment with different marinades to find the one that suits your taste best. Feel free to add herbs, spices, or other ingredients to customize your marinade.
2. Prepare the marinade
In a bowl, combine the marinade ingredients. Use a whisk or fork to mix them well, ensuring that all the flavors are evenly distributed. Adjust the quantities according to the number of steaks you are marinating.
Note: Make sure that the marinade is enough to coat the steak entirely and allow it to soak in the flavors.
3. Marinate the steak
Place the pork steak in a shallow glass or plastic container. Pour the marinade over the steak, covering it completely. Use a brush or spoon to spread the marinade evenly.
Note: If you prefer, you can also use a sealable plastic bag to marinate the steak. Place the steak in the bag, pour in the marinade, and seal it tightly.
Once the steak is coated in the marinade, cover the container or seal the bag. Then, place it in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. Turn the steak occasionally to ensure all sides soak in the flavors.
Tip: Marinating the steak longer will enhance the flavors even more and contribute to a tender texture.
By marinating the pork steak, you are allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more delicious and tender dish.
Cooking the pork steak
Before cooking the pork steak, make sure to properly season it. You can season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other desired herbs or spices.
1. Preparing the pork steak
Start by patting the pork steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasonings adhere better to the meat.
Next, generously season both sides of the pork steak with the desired seasoning mixture. Rub the seasonings into the meat to ensure an even coating.
2. Searing the pork steak
Heat a skillet or a grill over medium-high heat and add some oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned pork steak onto the skillet or grill.
Sear the pork steak for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until it develops a golden-brown crust. This will help seal in the juices and add flavor to the meat.
3. Cooking the pork steak
Once the pork steak is seared, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking times. Avoid overcooking the pork steak as it can become dry and tough.
4. Resting the pork steak
After the pork steak is cooked to the desired doneness, remove it from the heat and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat and make it more tender and juicy.
Searing the steak
Before cooking the pork steak, it is important to sear it to lock in the flavors and create a delicious outer crust. Here is how you can sear the steak:
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Heat the pan:
Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat on the stove. Allow it to heat up for a few minutes until it is hot.
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Season the steak:
While the pan is heating, season the pork steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Rub the seasonings onto both sides of the steak.
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Add oil:
Once the pan is hot, add some oil to coat the bottom. Use a high-heat oil like vegetable oil or canola oil. Allow the oil to heat up for a minute.
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Sear the steak:
Place the seasoned pork steak in the hot pan. Let it cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden brown crust forms. Avoid moving or flipping the steak too much to ensure a good sear.
Once the steak is nicely seared, you can move on to the next step of cooking it with gravy. Searing the steak helps to trap the juices inside and adds a delicious caramelized flavor to the final dish.
Slow cooking the steak
Slow cooking the pork steak allows it to become tender and infuse with flavor. Follow these steps to achieve a delicious slow-cooked pork steak:
- Season the pork steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork steak and sear it on both sides until browned. This will help seal in the juices.
- Transfer the seared pork steak to a slow cooker. Add chopped onions, garlic, and any other vegetables or herbs you prefer.
- Pour in enough beef or vegetable broth to cover the pork steak about halfway. If you want a thicker gravy, you can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to thicken it later.
- Set the slow cooker to low heat and let the pork steak cook for 6 to 8 hours. This low and slow method will ensure a tender and flavorful result.
- After the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the pork steak from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter. Cover it with foil to keep it warm.
- Use a strainer to separate the juices and vegetables from the slow cooker. Reserve the liquid to make the gravy.
Once the pork steak is cooked and the gravy is prepared, you can serve the steak with the gravy spooned over the top. This slow-cooked pork steak with gravy is a delicious and comforting meal that pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
FAQ
What ingredients do I need to cook pork steak with gravy?
To cook pork steak with gravy, you will need the following ingredients: pork steaks, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, flour, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch.
How do I cook pork steak with gravy?
To cook pork steak with gravy, you can follow these steps: 1. Season the pork steaks with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. 2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. 3. Add the pork steaks to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. 4. Remove the pork steaks from the skillet and set aside. 5. In the same skillet, add flour and cook for about 1 minute. 6. Gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. 7. Cook the gravy for about 5 minutes until it thickens. 8. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. 9. Stir the slurry into the gravy and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens more. 10. Return the pork steaks to the skillet and let them simmer in the gravy for a few minutes until they reach your desired doneness.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork steaks?
Yes, you can definitely use a different type of meat instead of pork steaks. This recipe will work well with other cuts of pork, such as pork chops or pork loin. You can also try using beef steaks or chicken breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type and thickness of the meat you’re using.
Is it necessary to marinate the pork steaks before cooking?
No, marinating the pork steaks is not necessary for this recipe. However, if you prefer to marinate the steaks for added flavor, you can prepare a simple marinade using ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs. Marinate the steaks for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
What can I serve with pork steak and gravy?
Pork steak with gravy pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious gravy. Choose your favorite side dishes based on your preferences and dietary restrictions.