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Braised Pork Thigh
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Braised Pork Thigh

Sus scrofa domesticus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Braised pork thigh is a flavorful cut of meat that becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked. It is rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a popular choice in various cuisines.

Also known as:
Pork ShoulderPork Butt
Scientific NameSus scrofa domesticus
Region of OriginGlobal

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories250 kcal
Water
61%
Fiber0g
Total40.0g
Protein
22g(55%)
Fats
18g(45%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.7 mg (58%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)8 mg (50%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)1 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (38%)
Vitamin B120.7 µg (29%)
Choline70 mg (13%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron1.8 mg (10%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Selenium25 µg (45%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains important vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High in saturated fats; excessive consumption may contribute to heart disease.

How to Prepare & Consume

Slow-cooking or braising in a flavorful liquid enhances tenderness and flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose pork thighs that are pink in color with a small amount of marbling for flavor.

How to Store

Store raw pork in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Rich in protein, supports muscle health, contains essential amino acids.
Main Applications
Main dish in meals
Used in stews and soups
Bioactive Compounds
Creatine

Supports energy production in muscles.

How to Consume
Braised, Stewed, Grilled
Did you know?

"Pork is one of the most widely consumed meats in the world, with various cultural dishes highlighting its versatility."

Myths vs Realities

MythPork is unhealthy and should be avoided.
RealityPork can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
MythAll pork is high in fat.
RealityLean cuts of pork, like pork loin, are low in fat and can be healthy options.
MythCooking pork to a high temperature makes it tough.
RealitySlow cooking at low temperatures helps to tenderize pork.

Healthy Recipes

Herbed Braised Pork Thigh with Quinoa Salad

This dish features tender braised pork thigh infused with fresh herbs, served alongside a vibrant quinoa salad packed with vegetables and a citrus dressing.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised pork thigh
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braised the pork thigh in a mixture of herbs and spices until tender.
  2. 2. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  3. 3. Combine quinoa with vegetables, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and serve with the braised pork.

Spicy Braised Pork Thigh Tacos

These tacos feature spicy, tender braised pork thigh served in whole-grain tortillas with fresh avocado and a zesty slaw.

Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs braised pork thigh
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 8 whole-grain tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season the braised pork thigh with chili powder, cumin, and salt, then shred it.
  2. 2. Mix shredded cabbage with cilantro, lime juice, and salt to create the slaw.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos with pork, avocado, and slaw in tortillas.

Braised Pork Thigh with Sweet Potato Mash

A comforting dish of braised pork thigh served over creamy sweet potato mash, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised pork thigh
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Braised the pork thigh until tender and flavorful.
  2. 2. Boil sweet potatoes until soft, then mash with Greek yogurt, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve the pork over the sweet potato mash, garnished with fresh chives.

Braised Pork Thigh with Apple Cider Glaze

This dish features succulent braised pork thigh glazed with a sweet and tangy apple cider reduction, served with sautéed greens.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised pork thigh
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braised the pork thigh and then reduce apple cider in a saucepan until thickened.
  2. 2. Sauté kale in olive oil with thyme, salt, and pepper until wilted.
  3. 3. Drizzle the apple cider glaze over the pork and serve with sautéed greens.

Mediterranean Braised Pork Thigh Bowl

A wholesome bowl featuring braised pork thigh, brown rice, roasted vegetables, and a tangy tahini dressing.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised pork thigh
  • 1 cup brown rice
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant)
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braised the pork thigh until tender.
  2. 2. Cook brown rice according to package instructions and roast mixed vegetables.
  3. 3. Combine tahini with lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then assemble the bowl with rice, vegetables, and pork.

Braised Pork Thigh with Spicy Mango Salsa

This dish combines flavorful braised pork thigh with a refreshing and spicy mango salsa, perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised pork thigh
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braised the pork thigh until tender.
  2. 2. Mix diced mango, jalapeño, red onion, lime juice, and salt to create the salsa.
  3. 3. Serve the pork topped with mango salsa.

Braised Pork Thigh with Lentil Stew

A hearty and nutritious dish featuring braised pork thigh served over a bed of protein-rich lentil stew.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised pork thigh
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braised the pork thigh until tender.
  2. 2. Sauté onion, garlic, and carrot, then add lentils, broth, cumin, salt, and pepper, and simmer until lentils are cooked.
  3. 3. Serve the pork over the lentil stew.

Braised Pork Thigh with Cauliflower Rice

A low-carb option featuring braised pork thigh served over cauliflower rice, topped with a savory herb sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised pork thigh
  • 1 head cauliflower, grated into rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braised the pork thigh until tender.
  2. 2. Sauté grated cauliflower in olive oil until tender, then mix in herbs, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve the pork over the cauliflower rice.

Braised Pork Thigh with Ginger Soy Glaze

A flavorful dish featuring braised pork thigh glazed with a ginger soy sauce, served with steamed broccoli.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised pork thigh
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braised the pork thigh until tender.
  2. 2. Mix soy sauce and ginger to create the glaze, then brush it over the pork.
  3. 3. Steam broccoli and drizzle with sesame oil; serve alongside the pork.

Braised Pork Thigh with Roasted Beet Salad

A vibrant dish featuring braised pork thigh paired with a roasted beet salad, offering a balance of flavors and nutrients.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised pork thigh
  • 2 medium beets, roasted and sliced
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braised the pork thigh until tender.
  2. 2. Toss mixed greens with roasted beets, feta, balsamic vinaigrette, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve the pork alongside the beet salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How should I cook braised pork thigh?

Braised pork thigh is best cooked slowly at low temperatures to ensure tenderness.

What are the health benefits of pork thigh?

Pork thigh is high in protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals.

Can I use pork thigh in recipes that call for other cuts?

Yes, pork thigh can be substituted for other cuts in many recipes, but cooking times may vary.

Is braised pork thigh healthy?

In moderation, braised pork thigh can be part of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients.

What spices pair well with braised pork thigh?

Common spices include garlic, rosemary, thyme, and paprika.

How do I store leftover braised pork thigh?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze braised pork thigh?

Yes, braised pork thigh can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What sides go well with braised pork thigh?

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice.