Pork is one of those versatile dishes that can be prepared in any number of different ways. However, for novice cooks, it can be difficult to decide how to prepare pork in a way they and their family or guests will enjoy. Or, maybe you cook pork regularly and just need a new way of doing so. Whatever the case may be, read on to learn different and delicious ways to prepare pork.

BBQ Pulled Pork

Barbecue pulled pork is easy enough for anyone of any skill level to prepare. Get a decently sized pork loin or pork shoulder, season rigorously with salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic seasoning, onion salt, Worcestershire sauce and, for an even bolder flavour, liquid smoke. Cook the loin or shoulder on low heat, either on the stove or in the oven. For a truly easy and tender way to cook the pork, an Instant Pot or Crock Pot is easy to set and forget, cooking the meat at a set temperature and time. Once fully cooked, allow to slightly cool and begin pulling! If tender enough, you should be able to pull the meat with two large forks. Add the desired amount of barbecue sauce, mixed and top onto a nice brioche bun. Coleslaw works as a great accompaniment, too, as a side or directly on the sandwich.

Garlic Pork Tenderloin

For this dish, you’ll need a nice, long pork tenderloin to then rest in a garlic marinade for a few hours. Once well marinated, you can cook this dish on a cast iron on the stove or in the oven. Like a quality steak, pork tenderloin is best cooked to a medium temperature, and using an internal thermometer is wise. This can be served as is, or make a gravy sauce with the remaining juices, a beef stock or a bouillon concentrate. Steamed broccoli or cooked Brussel sprouts work well as a side.

Asian Style Pork Chop

You do not need any Asian heritage or previous skills in creating Asian dishes to make this perfect meal. Using thinly sliced pork chops, allow them to marinate in soy sauce, ginger, minced garlic, honey and sesame oil for a few hours. Once ready, cook them in vegetable or canola oil in a sterling silver pan on medium-high heat. Either during or after cooking the pork, use a small saucepan to create the sauce.

In a dash of olive oil, cook freshly minced garlic until golden brown. Add soy sauce, honey, Sriracha hot sauce, a dash of ketchup and whisk. Once combined, drop to low heat and add a teaspoon of corn starch which will thicken the sauce. Cut the pork into thin strips or dice, and add the pork back into the pan. Drizzle the finished sauce into the pan of cut, cooked pork chops and mix thoroughly. This dish is best served over white rice, steamed vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers and broccoli, or both. For some added color and flavour, add roasted sesame on top of the pork and shred a carrot over the entire plate.

Each dish is different with unique and delicious flavours. When it comes to deciding which pork dish to make, choose the option that most interests you, but the Asian style pork chops are a firm favourite. Luckily though, each is equally easy to prepare, and with enough ingredients, they can be made for large groups, even catered events!