Diced pork is a versatile and tasty ingredient that can be used in many delicious recipes. But to get the best results, it’s important to know how long to cook diced pork properly. Undercooked pork can be unsafe, while overcooked pork ends up dry and chewy.
This guide covers everything you need to know about cooking times for diced pork on the stove, in the oven, or in the slow cooker to get perfect results every time.
What is Diced Pork?
Diced pork refers to pork that has been cut into small, cube-shaped pieces, usually around 1/2 to 1 inch in size. Common diced pork cuts include:
- Pork shoulder or butt
- Pork loin
- Pork tenderloin
- Pork belly
Dicing the pork breaks down the fibers and allows seasonings and flavors to penetrate the meat This makes diced pork ideal for stews, stir fries, skewers, and other dishes
Cooking Diced Pork on the Stove
When cooking diced pork on the stovetop, follow this process:
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Sear the pork: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until well browned. This caramelizes the exterior.
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Simmer or braise Add your desired sauce or braising liquid just enough to come about halfway up the pork. Bring to a simmer cover, and cook for 15-25 minutes until the pork is fork tender.
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Thicken the sauce (optional): Uncover and let the liquid reduce to thicken it and coat the pork.
The total stove top cooking time is around 30-40 minutes depending on the size of the pork cubes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Baking Diced Pork in the Oven
To bake diced pork in the oven:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F.
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Season the pork cubes as desired.
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Place in a baking dish in a single layer. Add a small amount of liquid like broth or water.
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Cover and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 more minutes until browned.
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Check the internal temperature, aiming for at least 145°F.
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Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Total oven baking time is approximately 25-35 minutes. Monitor thickness and adjust time if needed.
Slow Cooking Diced Pork
For tender, fall-apart diced pork in the slow cooker:
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Season pork as desired. Brown in a skillet first for more flavor (optional).
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Place in slow cooker and add your choice of sauce or braising liquid.
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Cook on Low for 7-8 hours until extremely tender.
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Shred pork with two forks if desired.
The extended cooking time results in supple, juicy pork that shreds easily. The low heat prevents it from drying out.
How to Tell When Diced Pork is Done
Checking your pork for doneness is crucial for both safety and optimal texture. Here are some ways to test if your diced pork is fully cooked:
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Use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F.
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The pork should feel fork tender when pierced or easily shredded.
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Cut into a piece – properly cooked pork is white throughout with a hint of pink, not red.
Checking temperature and visual cues ensures your diced pork turns out perfectly cooked.
Cooking Time Factors
Several factors impact how long diced pork takes to cook, including:
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Size of dice – Smaller 1/2-inch dices cook faster than 1-inch chunks.
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Pork cut – Denser cuts like shoulder require more time than tenderloin.
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Temperature – Higher heat decreases cooking time but increases risk of drying out.
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Method – Braising and simmering take longer than searing.
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Enzymes – Fresh pork cooks slower than well-aged pork due to active enzymes.
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Accuracy – Use an accurate thermometer and adjust time as needed.
Taking these elements into account ensures your pork turns out perfectly cooked, not over or underdone.
Tips for Cooking Diced Pork
Follow these tips for delightful diced pork dishes:
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Marinate or season – Give the pork extra flavor with spices, herbs, sauces, etc.
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Don’t crowd the pan – Cook pork in a single layer for even browning.
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Use a thermometer – It’s the only way to guarantee safety and doneness.
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Brown well – Searing develops delicious caramelized flavor.
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Rest before serving – Allowing the pork to rest makes it more juicy.
With the proper techniques, your diced pork will be a tender and mouthwatering addition to any meal!
Common Ways to Use Cooked Diced Pork
Now that you know precisely how to cook diced pork, here are some tasty ways to put it to use:
- Tacos, burritos, and enchiladas
- Stir fries with vegetables and rice
- Soups, stews, and chilis
- Casseroles or baked pasta dishes
- Sandwiches and sliders
- Salads and rice bowls
- Skewers and kabobs
- Egg rolls or pot stickers
- Pizza and flatbread toppings
The possibilities are endless for versatile diced pork! Get creative with global flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my diced pork needs longer cooking times?
Increase oven temperature to 400°F or simmer on the stove for 10-15 minutes longer if your pork needs more time to become tender. Check internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F.
Can I cook diced pork from frozen?
Yes, you can cook frozen diced pork without thawing first. Just increase oven or stove top cooking times by 50%. And always cook to the proper internal temperature.
What pork cuts work best diced?
Shoulder and loin offer the best balance of fat and tender meat when diced. Avoid super lean cuts like tenderloin which can dry out.
Is it safe to eat diced pork pink?
Properly cooked diced pork can have a hint of pink but should not be red. Use a thermometer to guarantee it reaches the safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F.
Can I cook diced pork in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Diced pork cooks beautifully in a slow cooker. Cook on Low for 7-8 hours until fall-apart tender. Add sauce and serve over rice or noodles.
Get Cooking with Diced Pork
Understanding how long diced pork takes to cook properly allows you to produce tender and safe results every time. Follow the guide temperatures, methods, and tips outlined to infuse amazing flavor into your diced pork dishes.
So get ready to sauté, bake, or slow cook to your heart’s content. With this diced pork knowledge in your chef toolbox, you’ll be ready to impress!