Dive into the flavorful world of Chinese cuisine with this mouth-watering pork stir fry with green onions. This recipe is simple yet packed with a punch of savory flavors. It's perfect for a quick dinner, and the tender pork loin strips married with the fragrant green onions will delight your taste buds.
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in your household pantry, there are a few you might need to pick up from the supermarket. The star of this recipe, pork loin, is a tender cut of meat that is widely available in the meat section. Make sure to pick a fresh piece. Next, green onions also known as scallions, can be found in the produce section. Lastly, you might not have sesame oil and peanut oil at home, but they are commonly available in the cooking oil or international section of the supermarket.
Ingredients for Pork Stir Fry with Green Onions
Pork loin: A lean and tender cut of pork, it's perfect for quick cooking in a stir fry.
Soy sauce: This gives the dish its savory, umami flavor.
Sugar: A touch of sugar helps balance out the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Cornstarch: This helps to thicken the marinade and gives the pork a nice glossy coating.
Peanut oil: Used for stir frying, it has a high smoke point and a slightly nutty flavor.
Garlic: Garlic adds a kick of flavor and aroma to the stir fry.
Scallions: Also known as green onions, they add a fresh, crisp texture and a slight sweetness to the dish.
Sesame oil: Added at the end, it gives a rich, nutty flavor.
Cooked rice: Served with the stir fry, it soaks up all the delicious sauce.
One reader, Ephraim Stinson says:
This pork stir fry with green onion recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the pork turns out so tender and juicy. The green onions add a delightful crunch and freshness. It's a quick and easy dish that's become a family favorite. Highly recommended!
Key Techniques for Making Pork Stir Fry with Green Onion
How to pound pork slices thin: Place the pork slices under plastic wrap or wax paper and pound them thin with a rubber mallet, meat mallet, or an empty wine bottle. The slices should be about ¼ inch thick.
How to cut pork into thin strips: Cut the pork across the grain into thin strips, about 1½ inches long.
How to stir-fry pork: Heat the peanut oil in a wok or large sauté pan on high heat. When the oil is hot, add the garlic slices and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they begin to turn brown at the edges. Add the pork strips and stir-fry for about 90 seconds, stirring constantly, until the pork changes color.
How to stir-fry with green onions: Add the sliced green onions and continue to stir-fry for another minute, or until the green onions wilt.
How to serve: Serve immediately, alone (paleo and low carb) or with rice.
How To Make Pork Stir Fry with Green Onion
This fuss-free quick pork stir fry is perfect for nights when you want a tasty meal with the least effort possible. The green onions brighten up this dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbpork loin,or boneless pork chops
- 2tbspsoy sauce
- 1tspsugar
- 1tspcornstarch
- 4tbsppeanut oil,or canola oil
- 5clovesgarlic,thinly sliced
- 12scallions,or green onions, sliced diagonally into 1 to 2-inch pcs, green and white parts included
- ½tspsesame oil,optional
- cooked rice,to serve
Instructions
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Put pork slices under some plastic wrap or wax paper and pound them thin with a rubber mallet, meat mallet or even an empty wine bottle. The slices should be about ¼ inch thick. Cut the pork across the grain into thin strips, about 1½ inches long.
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Put the soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch into a large bowl and whisk to combine. Add the pork strips to the bowl with the marinade and toss to coat completely. Set aside for at least 10 minutes.
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Heat the peanut oil in a wok or large sauté pan on high heat. When the oil is hot (shimmering but not smoking) add the garlic slices and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they begin to turn brown at the edges.
-
Add the pork strips and stir-fry for about 90 seconds, stirring constantly, until the pork changes color.
-
Add the sliced green onions and continue to stir-fry for another minute, or until the green onions wilt. Turn off the heat and stir in the sesame oil, if using.
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Serve immediately. Serve alone (paleo and low carb), or with rice.
Nutrition
- Calories: 379.67kcal
- Fat: 28.48g
- Saturated Fat: 7.33g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.84g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.14g
- Carbohydrates: 6.60g
- Fiber: 1.32g
- Sugar: 2.17g
- Protein: 24.10g
- Cholesterol: 71.44mg
- Sodium: 504.05mg
- Calcium: 62.26mg
- Potassium: 577.78mg
- Iron: 1.75mg
- Vitamin A: 24.77µg
- Vitamin C: 10.31mg
Expert Tip for Perfecting Your Pork Stir Fry Technique
When stir-frying, it's important to keep the ingredients moving constantly. This not only ensures even cooking, but also prevents the food from sticking to the pan. Using a wok is ideal for stir-frying as its shape allows for quick and even heat distribution. However, if you don't have a wok, a large sauté pan will work just fine. Just make sure it's heated properly before adding your ingredients. Also, remember to add the sesame oil at the end of the cooking process. This is because sesame oil has a low smoke point and can easily burn if added too early, which would give your dish a bitter taste. Instead, adding it at the end will give your pork stir fry a nice, nutty flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Pork Stir Fry
Prep ahead: Marinate the pork the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Organize ingredients: Prepare all the ingredients and have them ready before starting to cook to streamline the process.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Save time by using pre-cut vegetables, or consider using a food processor to quickly chop the vegetables.
Multi-task: While the pork is marinating, use that time to prepare the other ingredients or set the table.
High heat cooking: Cooking at high heat will help the dish cook quickly, so make sure the wok or pan is hot before adding the ingredients.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup time.
Substitute Ingredients For Pork Stir Fry with Green Onion Recipe
pork loin - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast is a lean and versatile meat that can be used as a substitute for pork loin in stir-fry recipes. It has a mild flavor and tender texture, making it a suitable replacement for pork.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce that has a similar rich and savory flavor, making it a suitable substitute for soy sauce in this recipe.
peanut oil - Substitute with sesame oil: Sesame oil has a nutty flavor that can add depth to the stir-fry, and it can be used as a substitute for peanut oil to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a mild, sweet flavor that can be a suitable replacement for garlic in this recipe, adding a different depth of flavor to the stir-fry.
scallions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks have a similar mild onion flavor to scallions and can be used as a substitute in this stir-fry recipe, providing a slightly different taste and texture.
cooked rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a nutritious and gluten-free alternative to rice, and it can be used as a substitute to add a different texture and flavor to the dish.
Plating Ideas for a Delicious Pork Stir Fry
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pork stir fry, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a combination of vibrant colors and carefully arranged components to showcase the dish's freshness and balance.
Incorporate garnishes: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating delicate microgreens or edible flowers to the dish. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a subtle layer of flavor and texture.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Opt for sleek, modern serving plates or bowls to complement the refined nature of the dish. The choice of serving ware should enhance the overall presentation without overshadowing the star of the show – the pork stir fry.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Precision in arranging the pork, green onions, and accompanying components demonstrates a high level of culinary skill and attention to detail.
Emphasize balance and harmony: Strive for a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors on the plate. The presentation should reflect the careful balance of savory, umami-rich pork stir fry with the freshness of the green onions.
Consider negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to breathe visually. Thoughtful use of empty space can draw attention to the main components and create a sense of elegance.
Highlight the pork: Make the pork the focal point of the presentation. Arrange the pork strips in a visually appealing manner, ensuring they take center stage while still allowing the green onions to complement the overall composition.
Embrace simplicity: While aiming for an elevated presentation, remember that simplicity can often be the most impactful. Avoid overcrowding the plate and let the natural beauty of the dish shine through.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pork Stir Fry with Green Onion
- Rubber mallet: A rubber mallet is a tool used for pounding and tenderizing meat. It has a rubber head to prevent damaging the meat while tenderizing it.
- Wok or large sauté pan: A wok or large sauté pan is used for stir-frying the ingredients. It has a wide, curved shape that allows for even cooking and tossing of the ingredients.
- Meat mallet: A meat mallet is a kitchen tool with a flat surface used for pounding and flattening meat to an even thickness. It helps tenderize the meat and break down the muscle fibers.
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and shredding ingredients. It can be used for preparing marinades, sauces, or finely chopping garlic.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the marinade ingredients and coating the pork strips. It provides a spacious and convenient vessel for mixing and marinating the meat.
- Spatula or tongs: A spatula or tongs are used for stirring and flipping the ingredients while stir-frying. They help in evenly cooking the pork strips and green onions.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Pork Stir Fry
Let the pork stir fry cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
Refrigerate the leftover stir fry for up to 3-4 days. The pork and green onions will lose some of their texture over time, but the flavors will still be delicious.
To reheat, simply microwave the desired portion for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
If you want to freeze the pork stir fry, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification later on.
Freeze the stir fry for up to 2-3 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the pork and green onions may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
To thaw, place the frozen stir fry in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours until completely thawed.
Reheat the thawed stir fry in the microwave or a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to help rehydrate the dish and prevent it from drying out.
How To Reheat Leftover Pork Stir Fry
- The best way to reheat leftover pork stir fry is in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or water to the pan to help steam and reheat the pork and vegetables.
- Stir-fry the leftovers for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even reheating.
- If you prefer a moister stir fry, you can add a splash of chicken broth, beef broth, or water to the pan while reheating. This will help create a bit of steam and prevent the pork from drying out.
- For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover pork stir fry in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the stir fry halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
- If you have leftover rice, you can reheat it separately or together with the pork stir fry. To reheat the rice in the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
- Another option is to transform your leftover pork stir fry into a new dish. Try using it as a filling for lettuce wraps, tacos, or burritos. You can also serve it over a bed of noodles or quinoa for a different take on the original dish.
Interesting Trivia About Pork Stir Fry with Green Onion
Pork stir fry with green onion is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine and is known for its quick cooking time and delicious flavors. It is a great way to incorporate lean protein and fresh vegetables into your diet.
Is Making Pork Stir Fry at Home Cost-Effective?
This pork stir fry with green onion recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as pork loin and green onions, are generally affordable and readily available. The recipe's simplicity and minimal use of exotic or expensive ingredients make it a budget-friendly option. With a rating of 8/10 for cost-effectiveness, this dish is estimated to cost approximately $15 USD for a household of four people, making it an economical and satisfying choice for a family meal.
Is Pork Stir Fry with Green Onion Healthy or Unhealthy?
The pork stir fry with green onion recipe is a relatively healthy dish, but there are a few aspects that could be improved:
- Pork loin is a lean cut of meat, which is a good source of protein and low in fat
- The use of garlic and scallions adds flavor and some nutritional value
- The recipe uses a small amount of sugar and cornstarch, which helps to balance flavors and thicken the sauce without adding excessive calories
- Peanut oil is high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered healthy fats
- Serving the dish with rice provides a source of carbohydrates for energy
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli, to boost the fiber and nutrient content
- Use a lower sodium soy sauce or replace some of the soy sauce with a low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to reduce the overall sodium content
- Opt for brown rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal
- Use a smaller amount of oil or switch to a cooking spray to reduce the overall fat content
- Serve the dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Pork Stir Fry Recipe
The pork stir fry with green onion recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the pork with a savory umami taste, while the green onions add a fresh, crisp element. The quick stir-fry method ensures that the pork remains tender and juicy, and the aromatic garlic adds depth to the dish. The simplicity of this recipe allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through, making it a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Serve it with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying dining experience.
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Why trust this Pork Stir Fry with Green Onion Recipe:
This recipe uses high-quality pork loin and traditional soy sauce to create a flavorful and authentic stir-fry. The use of scallions adds a fresh and aromatic element, while the technique of marinating the pork ensures tenderness and depth of flavor. The combination of peanut oil and sesame oil brings a rich and nutty taste to the dish. The careful instructions and attention to detail demonstrate a commitment to delivering a delicious and reliable stir-fry experience.
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