Tonteki (Japanese Pork Chop Steak) | Sudachi Recipes (2024)

FAQs

Are pork steaks the same as pork chops? ›

Though steaks and chops may be used interchangeably in some recipes, these two cuts bring different things to the table. The former is inherently fatty and succulent because it's taken from the shoulder. Meanwhile, the latter tends to be leaner with a milder flavor profile, since it comes from the pig's loin.

Just like you would with, say, rib eye steak, you'll first cook the pork chops in a cast-iron skillet, and then, add butter, herbs, and (in this case) Thai chiles to the pan. As the chops continue to cook, you'll spoon the butter mixture over them, ensuring that the meat will stay juicy and packed with flavor.

This hearty but reasonable B-class gourmet dish started in Yokkaichi city in Mie prefecture originally, but gradually spread to other parts of Japan. Tonteki means pork (ton) steak (teki), and its origin is interestingly at a Chinese restaurant in Yokkaichi city in the 1960s.

Heat a heavy-based or non-stick frying pan to around medium heat. Oil the steak on both sides, rub in and season with salt, pepper and anything else you fancy. Put the pork steak in the hot pan. Keep a close eye on it – it should take roughly 6 -7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steaks.

Pork steaks are usually more affordable than pork chops due to the higher fat content while pork chops are usually more expensive because the cuts are leaner and have more meat than fat. The price gets even higher for premium cuts like center-cut or boneless chops.

Because pork chops are such a lean cut, they are relatively quick-cooking and prone to overcooking. When they're cooked for even a few minutes too long, whether it's in the oven or on the stovetop or grill, they're quick to dry out, and — you guessed it — become tough, chewy, and less than appealing.

Place pork steaks in the skillet. Cover and cook until browned, 8 to 10 minutes per side. Remove the lid and continue cooking until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak reads 145 degrees F (63 degrees C), about 10 minutes.

A quick turn in a hot pan followed by a little time in the oven is another great way to cook pork chops. You build color and flavor in the skillet, then hand the cooking over to the oven, which gives you time to prep the rest of the meal.

Season your pork with salt and pepper. IMPORTANT: Wash your hands and equipment after handling raw meat. Once the pan is hot, cook your pork until browned, 2-3 mins on each side. Reduce the heat to medium and fry for an additional 8 mins, turning every couple of mins.

The quickest way to cook pork chops is to pan-fry or griddle them. As the chops can be quite large, this method is best when serving one or two people. If you're cooking for more you might want to try roasting or grilling.

Should pork steaks be cooked fast or slow? ›

Using a low and slow method for smoking pork steak results in the best flavor and texture. Use a dry rub with spices like smoked paprika and cumin mixed with brown sugar.

Pork steaks and pork chops are both popular cuts of pork, but they are quite different. Pork steaks are taken from the shoulder area of the pig and are usually thicker and tougher than pork chops. Pork chops, on the other hand, are taken from the loin area and are typically more tender and leaner.

Pork steaks are very versatile and can be cooked via sautéing, grilling or braising. Be careful not to overcook the Pork Steaks (especially since we cut them thin) or they will become dry and tough. Reach 145F, and remove from heat. The meat will be slightly pink, juicy, tender and delicious!

Tasty pork steaks are cheap, cheerful and easy to cook with. Serve them braised in a fruity sauce, spiced, barbecued, breadcrumbed or griddled.

A pork steak, also called Boston butt or pork blade steak, is a steak cut from the shoulder of the pig. Pork steaks are mentioned as far back as 1739, though without details about how they were cut or how they were cooked.