Quick & Easy Crispy Pork Shoulder Fry
Nutritional value per serving
Calories320kcal
Carbs1gram
Fat22gram
Protein26gram
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder, thinly sliced (look for fresh, pink pork with no off smell)500 g
- Salt1 tsp
- Black pepper, freshly ground0.5 tsp
- Garlic powder (optional)0.5 tsp
- Vegetable oil for frying (choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point)3 tbsp
This quick and easy fried pork shoulder recipe is perfect for home cooks looking to make a delicious, crispy, and juicy pork dish without fuss. The pork shoulder is sliced thinly for faster cooking, seasoned simply, and fried to golden perfection. The total cost of the ingredients is approximately $8 (7 euros, 6 pounds, 650 rupees) for 4 servings. Each serving contains about 320 kcal, making it a moderate calorie dish suitable for those not on a restricted diet. The recipe is easy and takes only about 25 minutes from start to finish. It requires basic kitchen equipment and common ingredients, making it accessible for everyday cooking. Remember to achieve a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for pork, then let it rest before serving for juiciness and safety.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the pork
1Pat the pork shoulder slices dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
Heat the oil
2Pour the vegetable oil into a large frying pan and heat it over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Test by flicking a drop of water; it should sizzle.
Fry the pork shoulder
3Place the pork slices in a single layer in the hot oil without crowding the pan. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully with tongs.
Check for doneness
4Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer. If not, cook an extra minute per side and retest.
Rest and serve
5Remove the pork from the pan and let it rest on a plate covered loosely with foil for 3 minutes. This redistributes juices and finishes the cooking. Serve warm.
Cooking Tips
1Avoid crowding the pan to ensure each piece crisps up nicely rather than steaming.
2Use a meat thermometer to guarantee safe cooking temperature and juicy pork.
3For variation, add smoked paprika or chili flakes to the seasoning for a spicy twist.
4Letting the pork rest after frying improves tenderness and juiciness.
5If you don't have garlic powder, fresh minced garlic can be added to the oil for flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Tongs or spatula
- Meat thermometer (recommended for safety)
- Paper towels
- Plate and aluminum foil (for resting)
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Pork shoulder (500g) - Approx. $6.50. Choose fresh, firm, pink meat with little to no smell.
- [ ] Salt - Around $0.10 for the quantity needed. Use standard table salt.
- [ ] Black pepper (ground or whole to grind) - Approx. $0.20 for the amount needed. Freshly ground is best.
- [ ] Garlic powder (optional) - Approx. $0.30 for use. Look for pure garlic powder without additives.
- [ ] Vegetable oil (neutral oil with high smoke point) - Approx. cost $1 for quantity used. Can use canola, sunflower, or corn oil.
Total estimated cost: $8
FAQ
What internal temperature should pork shoulder reach to be safe to eat?
Pork shoulder should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) according to USDA guidelines. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for food safety.
Can I use a different cut of pork for frying?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork loin or tenderloin, but cooking times might vary since these are leaner and cook faster.
How do I avoid greasy fried pork?
Make sure to drain the cooked pork on paper towels and avoid using too much oil in the pan. Also, don't overcrowd the pan to keep the oil hot.
Can I marinate the pork shoulder before frying?
Absolutely! A simple marinade with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sugar can add more flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes up to overnight in the fridge.