Pork shoulder steaks, also known as Boston Blade steaks, are a flavorful cut of pork that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One raw steak, weighing 300g, with refuse excluded, yields about 447 calories when cooked by braising. These steaks are a good source of protein and fat.

In addition to providing energy, protein helps build and repair tissues in the body. Each pork shoulder steak (100g) contains about 24g of protein, which is about 48% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for an adult. While high in fat, these steaks are a good source of the healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease. One steak contains about 31g of fat, which is about 47% of the RDA for an adult.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional content of pork shoulder steaks, their health benefits, cooking methods, recipe ideas, storage and handling tips, and possible side effects.

Calories in Pork Shoulder Steaks

The exact number of calories in a pork shoulder steak will depend on a number of factors, including the weight of the steak, the method of cooking, and the presence of any fats or seasonings. In general, a 100g serving of pork shoulder steak contains about 149 calories.

Protein Content

Pork shoulder steaks are a good source of protein. A 100g serving contains about 24g of protein, which is about 48% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for an adult. Protein is a vital nutrient that plays a key role in building and repairing tissues in the body, including muscles, bones, and skin.

Fat Content

Pork shoulder steaks are high in fat, but most of the fat is in the form of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can actually help reduce the risk of heart disease. A 100g serving of pork shoulder steaks contains about 31g of fat, which is about 47% of the RDA for an adult.

Carbohydrate Content

Pork shoulder steaks are low in carbohydrates, with less than 1g of carbs per 100g serving. This makes them a good choice for people following low-carb diets, such as the ketogenic diet.

Vitamins and Minerals

Pork shoulder steaks are rich in several vitamins and minerals, including niacin, thiamine, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and zinc. Niacin and thiamine are important for energy metabolism, while vitamin B6 plays a key role in brain development and immune function. Phosphorus is important for strong bones and teeth, while zinc is important for wound healing and immune function.

Health Benefits

Pork shoulder steaks offer several health benefits. They are a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. The healthy fats in pork shoulder steaks can also help reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, the vitamins and minerals in pork shoulder steaks can support energy metabolism, brain development, immune function, and bone health.

Cooking Methods

Pork shoulder steaks can be cooked in a variety of ways, including braising, grilling, pan-frying, and roasting. Braising is a popular method for cooking pork shoulder steaks, as it results in tender, flavorful meat. To braise a pork shoulder steak, first sear the steak in a pan, then transfer it to a pot with some liquid (such as stock or wine) and aromatics (such as onions and garlic). Cover the pot and cook over low heat until the meat is tender.

Recipe Ideas

There are many delicious ways to prepare pork shoulder steaks. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started: Braised Pork Shoulder Steaks: Sear the steaks in a pan, then transfer them to a pot with some stock, onions, garlic, and other aromatics. Cook over low heat until the meat is tender. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice.
Grilled Pork Shoulder Steaks: Marinate the steaks in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes. Grill the steaks over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked to your liking. Serve with a side salad or grilled vegetables.
Pan-Fried Pork Shoulder Steaks: Coat the steaks in seasoned flour, then fry them in a pan with some oil or butter until they are golden brown on both sides. Serve with roasted potatoes or vegetables.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the safety and quality of pork shoulder steaks, it is important to store and handle them properly. Store raw pork shoulder steaks in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use. When thawing frozen steaks, do so in the refrigerator or microwave, not at room temperature, to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Cook pork shoulder steaks to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

Possible Side Effects

While pork shoulder steaks can be a healthy and delicious part of a balanced diet, they can also have some potential side effects. Some people may have an allergy to pork, in which case consumption of pork shoulder steaks could cause symptoms such as hives, itching, or difficulty breathing. Additionally, pork shoulder steaks are high in cholesterol, so people with high cholesterol levels or a history of heart disease should consume them in moderation.