Slow-Cooked to Perfection, our Pork Cube Steak Recipe Delivers Tender, Flavorful Meat in a Rich Mushroom and Onion Sauce—Ideal for Easy, Comforting Meals.
How do I Prepare the Pork Cube Steaks?
🥩 To prepare pork cube steaks, season with salt, pepper, and spices. Optionally, brown them in a skillet with oil for 3-4 minutes per side for extra flavor, then place them in the slow cooker.
Slow-cooked pork steak—juicy, tasty, and so easy to cook that you won’t have to labor all day in the kitchen. Cooking low and slow with many flavors, this dish will be perfect for dinners when you want to eat something heavy but don’t have the time to spend over the stove.
In this article, we will include every step for making slow-cooker cubed pork steak delicious. We will also detail what pork steak is, which is the best cut to use, how to prepare it for your slow cooker, and a comprehensive step-by-step guide on cooking.
We will also include ways to serve it and points on how to adapt the recipe to your taste. It can be perfect at dinner parties to feed guests or your family. Let’s get started and make this dish that everyone will love!
Table of Contents:
- What Are Cubes of Pork Steak?
- Why Slow Cooker?
- Best Pork Cube Steak Recipe Using a Slow Cooker
- Nutritional Benefits
- Other Pork Cube Steak Recipe
- Other Ways Pork Cube Steak Can Be Cooked
- Final Thoughts
What Are Cubes of Pork Steak?
A tasty and adaptable meat cut that can quickly become a mainstay in your cooking is pork steaks. However, precisely what are they? Now, let’s go specific.
Pork Cube Steaks
Lean pork pieces like tenderloin or loin usually make pork steaks. Flesh tenderization is achieved by pounding the flesh or employing a meat tenderizer, making tiny surface indentations. This promotes improved absorption of marinades and seasonings and helps break down the muscle fibers and tenderize the meat.
Why Choose Pork Cube Steaks?
Pork cube steaks are a great option for your dinners for several reasons:
- Juicy and tasty: Pork steaks absorb marinades and spices very well because of the tenderizing process, making for a juicy and tasty dish.
- Fast Cooking Time: It cooks more quickly than other meats, such as steaks, which need longer cooking times to get tender. Because of this, they’re ideal for hurried weeknight dinners.
- Versatility: There are numerous methods to make cubed pork steaks. This meat works well in various cooking techniques, including grilling, frying, and slow cooking.
- Economical: Compared to other premium cuts of pork, pork steaks are frequently less expensive, providing a cost-effective option without compromising on flavor or quality.
The Greatest Cuts for Steak Cubes
Although there are several cuts from which to make pork steaks, the following are the most popular:
- Pork loin: This lean cut has a mild flavor and a soft texture. Its suppleness and ease of cooking make it a great option for producing pork steaks.
- Tenderloin of Pork: Tenderloin is another excellent choice; it’s even more delicate than loin. Although it costs a little extra, the flavor and softness are outstanding.
How to Make Pork Cube Steaks
Pork steaks can be prepared by yourself or by purchasing already-tenderized steaks from your butcher. If you’re handling it yourself, follow this easy technique:
- Cut the Meat: Cut the tenderloin or pork loin into uniform slices between 1/2 and 3/4 of an inch thick.
- Tenderize: Pound the steaks with the edge of a hefty knife or a meat tenderizer. The goal is to cover the surface in a checkerboard pattern.
- Season: You can use marinades, your preferred spices, or just a little salt and pepper to season the meat.
You may easily create delectable and fulfilling dinners if you know what pork steaks are and how to prepare them. Pork steaks are a flavorful and adaptable option that will please everyone, whether you’re hosting a casual family meal or a lavish feast.
Why Slow Cooker?
A slow cooker or crockpot can make cooking pork steaks easy and delicious. Here’s why this combination works so well.
Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker
- Easy and Convenient: A slow cooker lets you prepare your meal in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat dinner. It’s perfect for busy days.
- Better Flavors: Cooking slowly helps flavors mix nicely. The low heat makes the meat tender and tasty.
- Tender Meat: They become super tender in a slow cooker. The slow, gentle cooking keeps the meat juicy and soft.
- Saves Energy: Slow cookers use less electricity than ovens or stovetops. They also keep your kitchen cooler.
- Versatile: You can make various dishes in a slow cooker, from stews and soups to casseroles and even desserts.
Perfect Pair: Pork Cube Steaks and Slow Cooker
Pork cube steaks and slow cookers are a great match. Here’s why:
- Soaks Up Flavors: Pork steaks are good at absorbing marinades and spices. Slow cooking makes the meat even more flavorful.
- Even Cooking: Slow cookers cook food evenly. This means your pork steaks will stay dry and stay manageable.
- Stays Moist: The steam in a slow cooker keeps the pork cubed steaks moist and tender.
- No Fuss: You don’t need to monitor the food. Just set the slow cooker and let it do the work.
Tips for Great Slow Cooker Pork Cube Steaks
- Brown the Meat: Browning the pork cubed steaks before slow cooking can add extra flavor.
- Layer Properly: Put vegetables at the bottom and the pork on top. This helps everything cook evenly.
- Right Amount of Liquid: Use enough liquid to cover the bottom of the slow cooker. Too much can make the dish watery.
- Season Well: Use plenty of herbs and spices. Slow cooking can make flavors milder, so don’t be shy with seasonings.
Best Pork Cube Steak Recipe Using a Slow Cooker
Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for making the best pork cubed steak using your slow cooker. This meal is perfect for busy days and guarantees tender, flavorful pork every time.
Ingredients
- Four pork cubed steaks
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) beef broth
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Pork Cube Steaks:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the pork cubed steaks with salt and pepper.
- Brown the steaks on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, until they have a nice golden color. This step adds extra flavor but is optional.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Lay the browned pork cubed steaks on top of the onions and garlic.
- Make the Sauce:
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Cook the Pork:
- Pour the sauce mixture over the pork cubed steaks in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Once the pork cubed steaks are ready, carefully remove them from the slow cooker.
- Stir the sauce and onions in the slow cooker to combine, and spoon it over the pork cubed steaks.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy:
- For a complete meal, serve the pork cubed steaks with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables.
Nutritional Benefits
Pork cube steak, like other cuts of pork, offers several nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Pork cube steak is rich in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamins and Minerals: It contains important vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins (including B12 and niacin), which are crucial for energy metabolism, and minerals like zinc and phosphorus.
- Low Carbohydrates: It is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
- Moderate Fat Content: While pork cube steak has moderate fat, it can be trimmed for leaner options.
Nutritional Facts of the Recipe
Here are approximate nutritional facts for the pork cube steak recipe per serving (assuming 4 servings):
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: Around 380 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 28-30 grams
- Fat: About 20-22 grams
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 7-9 grams
- Carbohydrates: Around 15-18 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 2 grams
- Sugars: Around 3-5 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1300-1500 mg (varies based on specific brands of soup and broth used)
Other Pork Cube Steak Recipe
Pork Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy
- Season the pork cube steaks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Dredge them in flour and brown in a skillet with oil over medium-high heat.
- Remove steaks and sauté sliced mushrooms in the same skillet until golden.
- Add flour to make a roux, then gradually stir in beef broth and cook until thickened.
- Return steaks to the skillet, cover with gravy, and simmer until pork is cooked.
Pork Cube Steak Parmesan
- Dip seasoned pork cube steaks in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Fry in hot oil until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Hawaiian Pork Cube Steak
- Marinate pork cube steaks in pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill or pan-fry until cooked through.
- Serve with a side of rice and grilled pineapple slices.
Pork Cube Steak Stir-fry
- Cut pork cube steaks into strips and stir-fry with bell peppers, onions, and snap peas.
- Season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
- Thicken with a cornstarch slurry and serve over steamed rice.
Pork Cube Steak Tacos
- Season pork cube steaks with taco seasoning and grill or pan-fry until cooked.
- Slice into strips and serve in tortillas with salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, and your favorite taco toppings.
Other Ways Pork Cube Steak Can Be Cooked
Grilling:
- Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the pork cube steaks on the grill and close the lid.
- Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or up to 160°F (71°C) for well-done, using a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Braising Pork Cube Steak:
- Season the pork cube steaks with salt, pepper, and desired herbs or spices.
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
- Brown the steaks on both sides for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Add broth or a combination of broth and wine to cover the steaks halfway.
- Cover and simmer over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until the steaks are tender and cooked.
Pressure Cooking Pork Cube Steak:
- Season the pork cube steaks with salt, pepper, and desired herbs or spices.
- Heat a pressure cooker over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
- Brown the steaks on both sides for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Add broth, wine, or other liquids to the pressure cooker, following the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended amounts.
- Seal the pressure cooker and cook the steaks under high pressure for 15 to 20 minutes until tender and cooked through.
Deep-Frying Pork Cube Steak:
- Season the pork cube steaks with salt, pepper, and desired herbs or spices.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge the steaks in flour, dip them in beaten eggs, and coat them in breadcrumbs or seasoned flour.
- Fry the steaks in batches for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Smoking Pork Cube Steak:
- Season the pork cube steaks with a dry rub or marinade.
- Prepare your smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions, maintaining a temperature of around 225-250°F (107-121°C).
- Smoke the steaks for 1.5 to 2 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let the steaks rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you Tenderize Pork Cube Steak?
Pork cube steak is usually already tenderized before purchase. If additional tenderizing is needed, lightly pound it with a meat mallet or the back of a heavy skillet.
Can Pork Cube Steak be Substituted for Other Cuts of Pork?
Pork cube steak can often be substituted for cuts like pork chops or pork loin in recipes. Adjust cooking times and methods accordingly.
Is Pork Cube Steak Healthy?
Pork cube steak can be a part of a healthy diet when prepared using healthy cooking methods (like grilling or baking) and paired with nutritious sides like vegetables or whole grains. It’s a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Final Thoughts
The slow cooker pork cube steak recipe offers a convenient and delicious way to prepare tender, flavorful pork with minimal effort. Combining simple ingredients like cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and onion soup mix infuses the meat with rich flavors while ensuring it remains moist and tender throughout the cooking process.
Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables, this dish promises a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy days or when you want a comforting, hearty dinner.
Embracing the slow cooker allows you to enjoy the benefits of tenderized pork cube steak without needing constant attention, making it a versatile and dependable addition to your recipe repertoire.