Pork stir fry is a flavorful and satisfying dish that has become a popular choice for quick, weeknight dinners. Originating from East Asia, stir fry is a cooking method where ingredients are quickly cooked in a hot wok or skillet, allowing them to retain their crunch and vibrant color. Pork, with its rich and savory taste, pairs wonderfully with a variety of fresh vegetables and a savory stir fry sauce.
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for a wide range of flavors and textures depending on the ingredients you choose. The balance of tender pork, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce makes it a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients
For a classic pork stir fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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For the Stir Fry:
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1 lb (450g) pork tenderloin or pork loin, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir frying)
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1 red bell pepper, julienned
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1 yellow bell pepper, julienned
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1 medium carrot, sliced thin
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1 small onion, sliced thin
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1 cup broccoli florets
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
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2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
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Substitutions:
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Pork: You can substitute pork with chicken, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
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Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like snow peas, mushrooms, or zucchini.
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Gluten-Free: Ensure you’re using gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce, or replace them with coconut aminos.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prep the Ingredients:
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Slice the pork into thin strips, against the grain. This ensures tenderness.
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Chop the vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
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Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
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Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce:
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In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch (if using). Stir until well combined. Set aside.
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Cook the Pork:
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Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the pork slices and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Cook the Vegetables:
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In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.
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Add the garlic, ginger, and onions, and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add the bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
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Combine Everything:
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Return the cooked pork to the pan with the vegetables.
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Pour in the stir fry sauce and toss everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the pork and veggies.
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Serve:
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Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.
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Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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High Heat is Key: Stir-frying requires high heat to cook ingredients quickly and evenly while keeping their texture. Make sure your pan or wok is preheated before adding the ingredients.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the pork and vegetables in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than stir frying.
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Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: For the best flavor, always use fresh ginger and garlic. Their fragrant aromas will really enhance the dish.
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Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch to the stir fry sauce and let it cook until it reaches your desired consistency.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian Version: Swap the pork for tofu or tempeh. Ensure the tofu is pressed and cooked to get a crispy texture.
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Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice or noodles and serve the stir fry on a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure all other sauces (like hoisin and oyster sauce) are gluten-free.
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Spicy Stir Fry: Add chili flakes or fresh chili peppers to give the dish an extra kick. Sriracha sauce can also be added to the stir fry sauce.
Serving Suggestions
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Rice or Noodles: Pork stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or lo mein noodles.
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Garnishing: Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil for added flavor and presentation.
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Side Dishes: Serve with a side of miso soup or a fresh Asian-style cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 16g
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Fats: 18g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 7g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I prepare the pork stir fry ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prep the ingredients and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, simply stir-fry everything together.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the stir fry for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before storing it in an airtight container.
Q: How can I make the dish spicier?
A: Add chili flakes or fresh chilies to the stir-fry for extra heat. A splash of sriracha sauce can also do the trick.
Closing Thoughts
Pork stir fry is a fantastic dish that combines bold flavors, a variety of textures, and a quick cooking method, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Experiment with different vegetables, proteins, and sauces to make it your own! Don’t forget to share your results or ask any questions if you’re trying this recipe for the first time. Enjoy the cooking experience!
