There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines the hearty flavor of pork with the sweet, fresh crunch of corn. This corn and pork recipe is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to impress guests, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. The natural sweetness of corn complements the savory richness of pork, making every bite a savory-sweet delight.
Perfectly seasoned and cooked to tender perfection, this dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, or even add a touch of heat for those who love a little kick.
Plus, it’s an excellent way to use fresh, seasonal corn when it’s at its peak, or even frozen corn when fresh isn’t available. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that celebrates the best of both worlds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This corn and pork recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for beginner and experienced cooks alike.
The combination of juicy, tender pork with sweet corn is a match made in culinary heaven, offering a perfect balance of flavors.
Moreover, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can use pork chops, pork tenderloin, or even ground pork, depending on what you have on hand.
It also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from fresh salads to creamy mashed potatoes. Nutritionally, it offers a good balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it both wholesome and satisfying.
Finally, the dish comes together quickly—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. The enticing aroma filling your kitchen as pork and corn cook together will have everyone eagerly anticipating the meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 3 ears of corn) or frozen corn, thawed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Serving platter or bowls
Instructions
- Prepare the pork: Pat the pork cubes dry with paper towels to ensure they brown nicely. Season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin. Toss to coat evenly.
- Heat the skillet: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Once hot, add the pork cubes in a single layer. Cook without moving for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden crust.
- Brown the pork: Stir and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the pork is browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the corn: Stir in the fresh or thawed corn kernels. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and slightly charred.
- Combine pork and vegetables: Return the browned pork to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the pork to finish cooking and flavors to meld.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if using.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.
Tips & Variations
For maximum flavor, marinate the pork cubes for 30 minutes with a splash of lime juice, olive oil, and your favorite spices before cooking.
You can swap pork tenderloin for pork chops or pork shoulder if you prefer a different cut. For a spicy twist, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices.
If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn works just as well—just be sure to thaw it first to avoid excess moisture. For a creamier texture, stir in a couple of tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking.
To elevate this dish into a complete meal, consider adding black beans or cooked quinoa for extra protein and fiber. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also be used instead of cilantro based on your preference.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 35 g |
Carbohydrates | 18 g |
Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Saturated Fat | 3 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Vitamin C | 25% DV |
Iron | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This corn and pork dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
For a lighter option, try it alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette.
Grilled vegetables such as zucchini or asparagus complement the smoky notes of the pork and corn. Alternatively, warm tortillas and a dollop of guacamole can turn this recipe into a flavorful taco filling that your family will love.
Don’t forget to squeeze fresh lime juice over the top just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing tang.
Conclusion
This corn and pork recipe is a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire, combining simplicity with delightful flavors. Its versatility makes it adaptable for many occasions, whether you want a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share with friends.
With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, the balance of sweet corn and savory pork creates a satisfying and nourishing dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting, home-cooked goodness it brings to your dining experience.
For more delicious recipes to try alongside this one, check out our Creamy Garlic Chicken, Spicy Shrimp Stir-Fry, and Hearty Vegetable Soup. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Corn and Pork Recipe
Description: A savory dish combining tender pork with sweet corn for a hearty meal. Quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into cubes
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add pork cubes and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; sauté until softened.
- Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Add corn kernels and chicken broth; simmer for 15 minutes.
- Cook until pork is tender and sauce has thickened.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 30 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 15 g
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