When it comes to cooking pork, there’s no shortage of delicious and creative options. One of our favorite cuts of pork is the cushion meat – tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with these 18 mouthwatering pork cushion recipes.
From classic comfort food dishes to international-inspired flavors and bold twists on traditional favorites, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each of these recipes is easy to make and packed with flavor, so you can impress your family and friends without breaking a sweat.
In our next section, we’ll dive into each of these 18 pork cushion meat recipes, highlighting the key ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for success. Get ready to get cookin’!
Slow-Cooked Pork Cushion with Garlic and Herbs
Slow-Cooked Pork Cushion with Garlic and Herbs: A hearty and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork cushion (boneless), trimmed of excess fat
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork cushion, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Spicy Korean Pork Cushion Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry combines tender pork cushions with crunchy vegetables, savory soy sauce, and a kick of gochujang for a flavorful and spicy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork cushions (see note)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 4 minutes.
4. Add pork cushions; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochujang, sugar, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the sauce over the pork and vegetables; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Cushion Carnitas Tacos
Transform pork shoulder into tender, crispy carnitas using a unique cushioning technique. Serve with warm tortillas, fresh toppings, and your favorite salsa.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Toppings: diced onions, cilantro, salsa, avocado or sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, lard or oil, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, and oregano.
3. Cover the pot and bake for 2 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes.
5. Shred pork into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning carnitas onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including resting time)
Maple-Glazed Pork Cushion Roast
This sweet and savory roast is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The combination of tender pork and sticky maple glaze is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) pork cushion roast
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the pork roast in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over the surface.
4. Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 2-3 pound roast.
Pork Cushion Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
This Argentine-inspired dish combines tender pork cushion steak with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 Pork Cushion Steaks (about 1 pound)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season pork cushion steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Grill pork for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil in a bowl.
5. Stir sauce until well combined.
6. Serve grilled pork cushion steak with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Braised Pork Cushion with Apples and Cider
This autumnal dish combines tender pork with sweet apples and tangy cider, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The slow-cooking process makes the pork incredibly tender, while the apples add natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork cushion (or pork belly), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or other tart variety)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown pork pieces on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add cider, apples, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork to pot, cover, and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Remove from oven; let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Pork Cushion Kebabs with Pineapple and Peppers
Pork Cushion Kebabs with Pineapple and Peppers: A sweet and savory twist on traditional kebabs!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork cushion, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread pork, pineapple, peppers, onion, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until pork is cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pork Cushion Piccata with Lemon and Capers
Pork Cushion Piccata with Lemon and Capers: A twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines tender pork chops with a zesty lemon-caper sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the white wine (if using) and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and capers. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Serve the pork chops with the lemon-caper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Pork Cushion with BBQ Rub
This recipe brings together the tender flavors of smoked pork and a sweet, tangy BBQ rub. Perfect for a weekend cookout or a casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ rub and brown sugar.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover every surface evenly.
4. Place the pork in the smoker, fat side up. Close the lid and let it cook for 8 hours.
5. After 8 hours, remove the pork from the smoker and let it rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Pork Cushion Schnitzel with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Pork Cushion Schnitzel with Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe Summary: This classic Austrian-inspired dish features tender pork cutlets coated in a light and airy breadcrumb mixture, served with a tangy and creamy mustard sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Creamy Mustard Sauce ingredients below
Creamy Mustard Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together eggs and milk.
4. Dip each pork cutlet in the egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place coated pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While pork is cooking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
8. Whisk in mustard and heavy cream. Season to taste.
9. Serve pork schnitzel with creamy mustard sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Asian-Style Pork Cushion Lettuce Wraps
These tender and flavorful lettuce wraps are a twist on traditional Asian-style pork dishes. Crunchy lettuce leaves wrapped around juicy pork, crunchy vegetables, and creamy sauce make for a refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup sliced carrots
– 2 cups lettuce leaves
– Sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger. Mix well until just combined.
3. Form into small patties and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare lettuce leaves and chop scallions and carrots.
5. Assemble wraps by placing a pork patty onto a lettuce leaf, followed by chopped vegetables and sauce (optional).
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Pork Cushion with Honey-Soy Glaze
This sweet and savory recipe transforms pork into a crispy, golden-brown delight. The honey-soy glaze adds a sticky, caramel-like flavor that’s perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or pork shoulder, skin removed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut the pork into 4-6 pieces, depending on desired size. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Place the coated pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
5. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
6. Brush the glaze over the pork during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Cushion Curry with Coconut Milk
This recipe is a flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the richness of coconut milk with the tender bite of pork cushion (pork belly). It’s a hearty dish perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork cushion, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add pork cushion and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pork Cushion Ragu over Pasta
A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish, this Pork Cushion Ragu over Pasta recipe is a perfect weekend treat for the family. Tender pork and rich tomato sauce come together in a flavorful ragù that’s served over al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or pappardelle)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add onion, garlic, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring ragù to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve pork cushion ragù over cooked pasta and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Pork Cushion with Rosemary and Garlic
Elevate your pork game with this flavorful and aromatic grilled cushion recipe, infused with the pungency of rosemary and richness of garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless pork shoulder, skin removed
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped rosemary and minced garlic.
3. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and the rosemary-garlic mixture.
4. Brush the pork with olive oil on both sides.
5. Grill the pork for 20-25 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pork Cushion Sliders with Coleslaw
These bite-sized sliders pack a punch of flavor and texture, with tender pork filling wrapped in a soft bun and topped with crunchy coleslaw. Perfect for parties or snacks, these sliders are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 slider buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices and lettuce leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine pork, breadcrumbs, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small patties (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Split slider buns and toast.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a pork patty on each bun, topping with coleslaw, and garnishing with pickle slices and lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Stuffed Pork Cushion with Spinach and Feta
This hearty dish combines the richness of pork with the brightness of spinach and the tanginess of feta, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta, onion, and garlic.
3. Lay the pork shoulder flat and make a horizontal incision in the center of the meat, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff the pork with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly between both sides of the incision.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
6. Season the outside with salt and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pork Cushion Adobo with Rice
Savor the rich flavors of the Philippines with this classic adobo recipe, featuring tender pork belly and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 2 cups cooked rice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork belly, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, fish sauce (if using), and black pepper.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until pork is tender.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve adobo over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the juiciest pork cushion recipes for every occasion! From slow-cooked comfort food to spicy stir-fries, and from tacos to curries, this collection has something for everyone. Discover mouthwatering dishes like Slow-Cooked Pork Cushion with Garlic and Herbs, Spicy Korean Pork Cushion Stir-Fry, and Pork Cushion Carnitas Tacos. Plus, find creative twists on classic recipes, such as Maple-Glazed Pork Cushion Roast and Crispy Pork Cushion with Honey-Soy Glaze. Whether you’re a pork lover or just looking for new recipe ideas, this article has got you covered!
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