Pork Steak: A Juicy and Flavorful Filipino Favorite 2024

Introduction

Pork steak, or “Bistek na Baboy,” is a beloved Filipino dish that combines the richness of pork with the tangy and savory flavors of soy sauce, calamansi (or lemon), and onions. This dish is a variant of the traditional Filipino beef steak, known as “bistek,” but with a twist. The use of pork, particularly pork shoulder or pork chops, creates a juicier and more tender dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether served with steamed rice or paired with vegetables, pork steak is a versatile and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and loved by many.

The History of Pork Steak in Filipino Cuisine

The concept of bistek, whether made with beef or pork, has its roots in the Spanish influence on Filipino cuisine. The Spanish colonial period introduced various cooking techniques and ingredients, including marinating meat in vinegar, citrus, and soy sauce. Over time, Filipinos adapted these methods to local tastes and ingredients, resulting in dishes like bistek and its variations.

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Pork steak, specifically, became popular as an alternative to the more expensive beef. Pork is more affordable and widely available in the Philippines, making it a staple protein in many households. The dish retains the same savory and tangy flavor profile as the beef version, but with the added benefit of pork’s natural tenderness and juiciness.

Ingredients

To make a delicious Filipino pork steak, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 kg pork shoulder or pork chops (sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably Filipino soy sauce, but any light soy sauce will do)
• 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or lemon juice if calamansi is not available)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 medium onion (sliced into rings)
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or canola oil)
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance the flavors)
• 1/4 cup butter (for added richness)
• Salt to taste
• 2 pcs bay leaves (optional, for extra aroma)

Optional Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup oyster sauce (for a richer flavor)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for an extra layer of savory depth)
• Sliced mushrooms (for added texture and flavor)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Marinating the Pork

Start by marinating the pork slices in a mixture of soy sauce, calamansi juice, minced garlic, and ground black pepper. Ensure that each piece of pork is well-coated with the marinade. Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or overnight if possible. Marinating the pork not only infuses it with flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, making it more succulent when cooked.

Step 2: Preparing the Onions

While the pork is marinating, prepare the onions by slicing them into rings. Onions are a key ingredient in pork steak, adding a sweet and slightly sharp flavor that complements the savory and tangy marinade. Set the onions aside until you’re ready to cook the pork.

Step 3: Browning the Pork

In a large pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated pork slices. Sear the pork on both sides until they are nicely browned. This browning process enhances the flavor of the pork by creating a rich, caramelized crust. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the pork in batches to ensure even browning.

Once the pork is browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the onion rings until they are soft and translucent. The onions will pick up the flavors left in the pan from the pork, adding depth to the dish.

Step 4: Simmering the Pork

After sautéing the onions, return the browned pork slices to the pan. Pour in the marinade and add the water. If you’re using bay leaves, add them at this point. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the pork simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has reduced slightly.

Simmering the pork in the marinade allows the meat to absorb all the flavors, while also tenderizing it. The result is juicy, flavorful pork that is infused with the savory and tangy essence of the marinade. If the sauce reduces too much during simmering, you can add a bit more water to maintain a saucy consistency.

Step 5: Adding Butter and Adjusting Seasonings

As the pork simmers, add the butter to the pan. The butter adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce, enhancing its flavor and giving the dish a luxurious finish. Stir the butter into the sauce until it is fully melted and incorporated.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dish, you can add a teaspoon of sugar. For a more intense flavor, consider adding a splash of oyster sauce or Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients will deepen the savory notes of the dish and add complexity to the flavor profile.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serving

Once the pork is tender and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, it’s time to plate the dish. Arrange the pork slices on a serving platter, then pour the sauce and onions over the top. For a more visually appealing presentation, you can garnish the pork steak with fresh calamansi slices or chopped parsley.

Pork steak is best served hot, with a side of steamed white rice. The rice helps to soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite satisfying and complete. For added texture and flavor, you can also serve the pork steak with sautéed vegetables or a simple green salad.

Variations of Pork Steak

While this recipe focuses on the classic Filipino pork steak, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste preferences:

• Creamy Pork Steak: For a richer version, you can add a splash of cream or evaporated milk to the sauce during the simmering process. This will create a creamy, indulgent sauce that pairs beautifully with the tender pork.
• Spicy Pork Steak: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add sliced chilies or a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade. The spicy kick will contrast nicely with the tangy and savory flavors of the dish.
• Mushroom Pork Steak: For added texture and flavor, sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions. The mushrooms will absorb the savory sauce, adding an earthy, umami-rich dimension to the dish.

Tips for Making the Perfect Pork Steak

• Choose the right cut of pork: Pork shoulder or pork chops are ideal for pork steak because they have a good balance of meat and fat. The fat helps keep the pork moist and flavorful during cooking.
• Marinate for maximum flavor: The longer you marinate the pork, the more flavorful it will be. If possible, marinate the pork overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
• Don’t rush the simmering process: Allowing the pork to simmer slowly in the sauce ensures that it becomes tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors. Patience is key to achieving the best results.
• Customize the sauce: Feel free to adjust the ingredients in the sauce to suit your taste. Add more soy sauce for a saltier flavor, more calamansi juice for extra tang, or butter for richness.

Conclusion

Pork steak is more than just a simple pork dish; it’s a flavorful and comforting meal that brings together the best of Filipino culinary traditions. Its tender, juicy pork slices, combined with the savory and tangy sauce, make it a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even just a weeknight treat. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different variations, pork steak is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, take your time, and enjoy the process of making this delicious and satisfying Filipino favorite.