You only live once but if you do it right, once is enough

The year 2020 was a time of unprecedented changes, and like many, I found myself spending more time at home. As someone who had always been a novice in the kitchen, the thought of cooking a meal for my family was both exciting and daunting. It was during this period that my wife challenged me to step into the kitchen and whip up something special. With a mix of enthusiasm and a bit of nervousness, I accepted the challenge and decided to make Honey Barbecue Pork Steaks with sides. The experience was not only a culinary adventure but also a delightful bonding moment for our family.

Marinating the Pork

The key to any great dish starts with the preparation, and for these pork steaks, the marinade was crucial. I gathered the following ingredients: T: Tablespoon

– Pork Steak Fillet (200-250 gms)
– Half T salt
– Pepper to taste
– 4 T Worcestershire sauce
– 2 T soy sauce
– 2 T chopped garlic
– 1 T barbecue sauce
– 2 T honey
– Half T paprika powder
– Thyme to taste

Combining these ingredients, I marinated the pork, allowing the flavors to meld together. The mix of Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce provided a savory base, while the barbecue sauce and honey added a sweet, tangy touch. The garlic, paprika, and thyme gave the steaks a rich, aromatic profile.

Cooking the Pork

The cooking process was where the magic happened. Using the same pan where I seared some veggies with butter, I added a cup of groundnut oil and carefully cooked the marinated pork steaks. The sizzle of the meat hitting the hot pan was music to my ears, and the aroma that filled the kitchen was irresistible. I cooked the steaks to our preferred cooking level, ensuring they were juicy and flavorful.

Mashed Potatoes

No hearty meal is complete without a comforting side, and for this dish, I chose to make mashed potatoes. I boiled the potatoes in until they were tender, then mashed them up with milk, a tablespoon of garlic butter, a tablespoon of cream cheese, salt, and pepper. The result was creamy, smooth, and utterly delicious mashed potatoes that paired perfectly with the pork steaks.

Boiled Vegetables

For a touch of freshness and color, I prepared a side of boiled vegetables. I cut up carrots and broccoli, boiled them until just tender, and then seared them in a pan with a bit of butter. The vegetables added a vibrant, healthy component to the meal, balancing the rich flavors of the pork and potatoes.

The Experience: A Family Affair

The anticipation built as the meal came together. My family gathered around the table, and the sight of the beautifully cooked pork steaks, creamy mashed potatoes, and colorful vegetables was a feast for the eyes. As we dug into the meal, the flavors burst forth, and the combination of the sweet, savory, and smoky notes in the pork was a hit. The mashed potatoes were a comforting addition, and the vegetables provided a refreshing crunch.

Seeing the smiles on my family’s faces and watching them polish off their plates was incredibly satisfying. It was a moment of triumph and joy, knowing that I had successfully cooked a meal that everyone enjoyed. The experience not only filled our bellies but also brought us closer together, sharing a home-cooked meal made with love.

Though I still consider myself a novice in the kitchen, this culinary adventure sparked a newfound appreciation for cooking. It was a reminder that sometimes, stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to rewarding experiences. While I may not cook as often as I’d like, the memory of this meal and the joy it brought to my family is a cherished one, and perhaps, as time goes on, my passion for cooking will continue to grow.