Are you tired of the same old weeknight routine? It’s time to level up your dinner game with the bold, bright, and savory flavors of smokin’ BBQ pork steaks. These grilled pork steaks are the perfect combination of a caramelized crust and juicy meat that will leave your taste buds begging for more. And the best part? Barbecue isn’t just reserved for the weekends anymore.
From the moment these mouthwatering pork shoulder steaks hit the grill, you’ll be greeted with irresistible aromas that will make your mouth water. The tangy and spicy mop sauce adds another layer of flavor, making each bite a sensory experience to remember. Serve these delicious steaks with some smoked baked beans or creamy smoked mac and cheese for the ultimate barbecue feast.
Key Takeaways
Why This Method Works
You may come across pork shoulder steak recipes that require smoking the meat low and slow, but this grilled pork shoulder steak recipe takes a different approach. By combining high heat with a simple mop sauce and basting method, you can achieve beautifully crusted pork in no time. This makes it ideal for any night of the week, whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro. The best part? It won’t break the bank. Pork steaks are a budget-friendly protein option that is often available in family packs on sale. Plus, the mop sauce calls for common ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
A Taste of Monroe County
Have you ever heard of the regional style of barbecue from Monroe County, Kentucky? This unique dish features pork shoulder steaks grilled over hickory wood embers and dipped twice in a tangy vinegar-based sauce. The recipe has a rich history, dating back to a slave camp in Cave City, Kentucky. Farmhands in Monroe County needed a quick cooking, calorie-dense meal during harvest season, and pork steaks provided the perfect solution. The combination of flavors, including tongue-tingling pepper and vinegar, creates a harmonious balance of acid, spice, and sweetness.
Ingredients for Grilled Pork Steaks
To recreate this delicious dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
- Pork Shoulder Steaks: These thin-cut, well-marbled steaks are packed with flavor and are perfect for quick cooking.
- Seasoning: While traditional pork steaks are seasoned with salt and pepper, you can elevate the flavors by using Nashville Hot Seasoning or your favorite BBQ seasoning.
- Mop Sauce: The mop sauce is a blend of butter, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, cayenne, black pepper, hot sauce, and honey. It adds richness, tanginess, and a touch of sweetness to the pork steaks.
How to Grill Pork Steaks
Grilling pork steaks is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you master the art of grilling these tasty steaks:
- Prepare the pork: Season both sides of the pork steaks and allow them to sit at room temperature for about fifteen minutes. This allows the seasoning to infuse into the meat. Meanwhile, heat up your grill and prepare the mop sauce.
- Prepare the mop sauce: Combine all the ingredients for the basting sauce in a grill-safe saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir until the butter, honey, and salt are fully dissolved. Keep the sauce warm until you’re ready to grill.
- Set up your grill: Create a two-zone cooking area by banking the charcoal to one side, leaving a cooler spot. Add hickory chips or a chunk of hickory for added smokiness. Ensure that the grates are clean and fully heated before placing the pork steaks on the grill.
- Have the sauce ready: Place the mop sauce on the cooler side of the grill to keep it warm and ready for basting.
- Time to grill: Lay the seasoned pork steaks directly over the heat and let them grill for 2-3 minutes to develop a char. Flip them over and lightly baste with the mop sauce. Repeat this process, flipping and basting every couple of minutes. If needed, move the steaks to the cooler side of the grill to control the cooking process.
- Repeat until done: Continue cooking the pork steaks until they are bronzed and charred on the outside, and they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare. Once done, remove them from the grill and give them a final basting. Allow the steaks to rest for several minutes before serving.
Important Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your grilled pork steaks turn out perfectly:
- Watch out for flare-ups: Due to the fat in the pork steaks and the butter in the mop sauce, be mindful of flare-ups. If necessary, move the steaks to indirect heat to control the flames.
- Choose a charcoal grill: This high-heat cooking process is best suited for a charcoal grill. Propane grills can create more mess and tend to have more flare-ups, which can affect the taste of the meat.
- Trust your instincts: Flip and baste the pork steaks frequently to prevent one side from burning and to develop a delicious charred crust. Adjust the cooking process as needed to achieve the desired results.
- Even if you slightly overcook the pork steaks, don’t fret. The mop sauce will still infuse them with bold flavor and moisture.
- Remember, these pork steaks are thin, so plan on serving two per person. Once you taste them, you won’t be able to resist devouring them caveman-style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
A: While pork shoulder steaks are traditional for this dish, you can experiment with other cuts of meat like beef steaks or chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Is there a vegetarian alternative?
A: For a vegetarian twist, you can try grilling hearty vegetable steaks such as eggplant or portobello mushrooms. Just adjust the seasoning and cooking time to suit your preference.
Q: Can I make this recipe without a grill?
A: If you don’t have a grill, you can still enjoy these flavors by using a stovetop grill pan or an oven broiler. The key is to achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
Indulge in the smoky and savory goodness of BBQ pork steaks. With their tantalizing flavors and simple cooking process, these grilled pork steaks will revolutionize your weeknight dinners. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor each and every bite. For more mouthwatering recipes and BBQ inspiration, check out Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ.
