Picture this: tender pork bites sizzling to perfection, each piece kissed with a smoky, spicy crust that makes your taste buds dance. It’s like a barbecue gathering but shrunk down into tiny, flavor-packed morsels. I stumbled upon this recipe during a weekend culinary experiment; now it’s my go-to when I need something irresistibly tasty yet surprisingly simple.
Steps
- Cut the boneless pork chops into 1-inch pieces and toss them with blackened seasoning in a medium bowl to ensure even coating.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned pork pieces, working in batches if needed, and cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned and crispy. Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, then transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring and scraping any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. Add the trimmed asparagus and cook for 6-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp-tender.
- Push the cooked asparagus to one side of the skillet and return the pork pieces, tossing them in the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the pork is warmed through.
- Garnish the dish with red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, and lemon slices before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless pork chops, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ¼ cup (60 g) chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed (about ½ lemon)
- 16 ounces asparagus, trimmed
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish
- Parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
FAQ
- Can I use a different cut of pork for Blackened Pork Bites?
- Yes, you can use other cuts of pork besides boneless pork chops. Just ensure the pieces are cut to a similar size for even cooking, and always check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safety.
- How can I make the Blackened Pork Bites less spicy?
- To reduce the spiciness, you can adjust the amount of blackened seasoning and omit the red pepper flakes. This will still result in a flavorful dish without the extra heat.
- What vegetables can I substitute for asparagus in this recipe?
- You can substitute asparagus with vegetables like green beans, broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose.
- How should I store leftover Blackened Pork Bites?
- Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with Blackened Pork Bites?
- This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, couscous, mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, roasted sweet potatoes, shredded Brussels sprouts, or crusty bread like a French baguette.
Tips
- Cut Uniform Pork Pieces: To ensure even cooking, cut the pork into equally sized, bite-sized pieces. This will help each piece cook thoroughly at the same time.
- Homemade Blackened Seasoning: Consider making your own blackened seasoning to save money and adjust the spice level to your preference, making the dish as mild or as spicy as you like.
- Choose Fresh Asparagus: When selecting asparagus, look for bright green stalks with tightly closed tips for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
- Versatile Vegetable Options: Feel free to substitute asparagus with vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or bell peppers. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the vegetables are perfectly cooked.
Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Meat thermometer (to ensure pork reaches 145°F)
- Airtight food storage containers (for storing leftovers)
