The Pork Shoulder: A Surprisingly Great Grilling Cut

Pork shoulder is usually associated with slow-cooked dishes like stews or pulled pork, but this recipe shows that the cut can also be great for grilling. When prepared as a steak, pork shoulder has a great balance of fat and muscle, which keeps it juicy and tender when cooked quickly over high heat. The fat renders beautifully, adding flavor and a crispy texture to the outer crust while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.

For this recipe, the pork shoulder is cut into steaks, allowing it to be grilled quickly to a perfect medium-rare. Seasoned simply with salt and pepper, the natural flavors of the pork shine through. When grilled, the pork develops a beautiful caramelized crust, offering both texture and flavor contrast that pairs perfectly with the marinade.

The Marinade/Dressing: Sweet, Salty, and Fresh

The marinade in this recipe is where the magic happens. It combines garlic, a sweetener (such as sugar or honey), fresh citrus, and herbs, creating a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that complement the rich pork. The garlic and salt provide a savory base, while the sweetener adds a touch of sweetness that enhances the caramelization of the pork when grilled. Fresh citrus juice, such as lemon or lime, brightens the flavor, cutting through the richness of the pork and bringing freshness to the dish.

Herbs like cilantro or mint elevate the dish with their aromatic and refreshing notes, providing a contrast to the grilled pork’s smoky flavor. Not only does this marinade infuse the pork with delicious flavors, but it also doubles as a dressing to drizzle over the dish when served, adding an extra layer of moisture and flavor.

Grilling the Pork: High Heat for Perfect Char

Grilling the pork over high heat is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of a crispy, charred exterior and a juicy, medium-rare interior. The key is to allow the grill to get very hot before placing the pork on it. This ensures that the meat sears quickly, creating that desirable crispy crust. The goal is to cook the pork until it reaches medium-rare, so the inside remains tender and juicy, not dry or overcooked.

Grilling also imparts a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the pork’s natural taste, making the dish even more delicious. Depending on the thickness of the pork steaks, the grilling time will vary, but generally, it takes about 4-6 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare result. Letting the pork rest for a few minutes after grilling helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is flavorful and tender.

Serving the Pork: Fresh, Light, and Flavorful

Once the pork is grilled to perfection, it’s time to assemble the dish. The pork steaks can be served on a bed of fresh, crisp lettuce or accompanied by a pile of aromatic herbs like cilantro or mint. These fresh ingredients add a burst of color and flavor, making the dish feel light and refreshing. For a more substantial meal, rice noodles or plain cooked rice make an excellent addition, providing a neutral base that complements the rich flavors of the grilled pork.

The remaining marinade is then drizzled over the dish, adding moisture and a final burst of flavor. This marinade also ties the whole dish together, providing a balance of sweetness, tanginess, and saltiness that enhances the pork. Whether served as a light, flavorful salad or a hearty meal with rice, this dish is satisfying, refreshing, and full of rich flavors.

Conclusion

This grilled pork shoulder steak, marinated with a garlicky, sweet, and tangy sauce, is a unique and delicious way to enjoy a typically slow-cooked cut of meat. Grilling the pork quickly over high heat results in a juicy, medium-rare steak with a crispy charred exterior, while the marinade infuses it with bright, fresh flavors. Paired with crunchy lettuce, fresh herbs, or rice noodles, this dish is perfect for a light meal or a more substantial dinner.

Not only is this recipe versatile, allowing for stovetop or grill preparation, but it also offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The tenderness of the pork, combined with the sweetness of the marinade and the freshness of the citrus and herbs, creates a well-rounded, satisfying dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this grilled pork shoulder steak will undoubtedly impress with its vibrant, bold flavors and simple preparation.