Sep 07 2026
RestaurantsMcWhorter Barbecue½ Pork Steaks Recipe

½ Pork Steaks Recipe

Inspired by McWhorter Barbecue
Time45m
Serves1

Make ½ Pork Steaks Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Pork and Marinade

Method

Pork and Marinade

  1. 1

    Bring to room temperature

    Remove the half pork steak from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before cooking so it approaches room temperature. Pat it dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Season

    Rub the pork on both sides with olive oil, then evenly season with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, minced garlic, and thyme. Massage the seasoning into the meat and let rest for 10 minutes while you preheat the pan.

  3. 3

    Preheat pan

    Place a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat and allow it to get hot for 3–4 minutes. Add a thin film of neutral oil if the pan is dry.

  4. 4

    Sear the pork

    Place the pork steak in the hot skillet, presentation-side down. Sear without moving for 4–5 minutes, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for 3–4 minutes to develop color.

  5. 5

    Finish cooking

    Reduce heat to medium. If the steak is thick, transfer the skillet to a 375°F (190°C) oven for 6–10 minutes, or continue cooking on the stovetop, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) measured at the thickest part. For a thinner steak you may need only 3–6 additional minutes. Tent with foil and rest for 5–7 minutes; carryover will bring it to a safe, juicy finish.

Pan Sauce (optional)

  1. 6

    Sauté shallot

    After removing the pork, reduce heat to medium-low and add 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Add the minced shallot and sauté 1–2 minutes until softened and translucent, scraping up browned bits from the pan.

  2. 7

    Deglaze

    Pour in the white wine or chicken stock and use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned fond. Let it reduce by about half, 1–2 minutes.

  3. 8

    Finish sauce

    Stir in the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar (or honey). Swirl in the remaining tablespoon of butter to emulsify and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in chopped parsley.

  4. 9

    Serve

    Spoon the pan sauce over the rested pork steak and serve immediately.

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