Cranberry-Orange Pork Steaks
Cranberry-Orange Pork Steaks offer a flavorful combination of tender pork with a tangy cranberry-orange relish, perfect for a hearty and festive meal suited to family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt shortening in a large skillet and brown the pork blade steaks.
- Season both sides of the steaks with salt.
- In a bowl, stir together the cranberry-orange relish, orange juice, and nutmeg.
- Spread the relish mixture on top of the browned steaks.
- Cover the skillet tightly and simmer for 1 hour or until the steaks are tender.
- Serve each steak with an orange slice.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh orange juice instead of bottled for a brighter flavor. If you don't have pork blade steaks, pork loin or even chicken can be substituted. The nutmeg can be replaced with cinnamon for a different twist. Browning the meat well adds depth to the dish's flavor. Make sure to cover the skillet tightly to keep the moisture in while simmering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cranberry-orange pork steaks with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad, such as a Hidden Valley Salad, for a complete meal. Mashed potatoes or rice also complement the dish well, soaking up the flavorful sauce. For a more festive touch, garnish with additional orange slices and fresh herbs.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork steaks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steaks in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of orange juice to prevent drying out, and cover until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry-Orange Pork Steaks contains roughly 1051 calories, with 2g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen cranberry-orange relish?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you'll need to cook them down with sugar and orange zest to replicate the relish's sweetness and flavor. This will require additional time and adjustments to ensure the right balance of tart and sweet in the sauce.
What should I do if the pork steaks are tough after cooking?
If the pork steaks are tough, they likely need more cooking time. Simmering them longer on low heat can help break down the meat fibers. Alternatively, you can slice the steaks thinly against the grain and serve them with the relish sauce to enhance tenderness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the simmering stage and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of orange juice to maintain moisture. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).