Pork Stir Fry Recipe: Looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare? A pork stir fry might be your new go-to dish.
With its savory sauce, tender meat, and colorful veggies, it’s the perfect combination of healthy and delicious.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to whip up something simple for dinner, this step-by-step pork stir fry recipe has got you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Pork Stir Fry
- Quick to make – Done in under 30 minutes.
- Nutritious – Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
- Customizable – Use any veggies you have in the fridge.
- Deliciously saucy – The stir fry sauce is the real hero here.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty pork stir fry:
For the Pork Marinade:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin or pork shoulder (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir Fry:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or peanut oil)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 inch fresh ginger (grated)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot (julienned)
- 3 green onions (sliced)
For the Stir Fry Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Pork Stir Fry
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Start by slicing the pork thinly against the grain. Thin slices ensure the meat cooks quickly and stays tender. Mix the pork with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes—this helps to tenderize the meat and give it that signature silky texture you often find in restaurant stir-fries.
Pro Tip: If you’re in a rush, 10 minutes of marination will do, but longer gives better flavor and texture.
Step 2: Chop Your Veggies
While the pork is marinating, prep your veggies. Try to slice them uniformly to ensure even cooking. Stir frying is a high-heat, fast-cooking method, so having everything chopped and ready before you start cooking is essential.
Vegetable ideas to mix it up:
- Snow peas
- Baby corn
- Mushrooms
- Zucchini
- Cabbage
- Bok choy
Feel free to get creative with what’s in season or what’s sitting in your crisper drawer.
Step 3: Mix the Stir Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Dissolve the cornstarch in water separately, then add it to the sauce mix. This combination creates a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with a glossy finish that coats every bite.
Tip: Want it spicy? Add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Cook the Pork
Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat. When the oil is shimmering hot, add the marinated pork in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. Sear the pork for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
Step 5: Stir Fry the Veggies
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in garlic and ginger. Stir for a few seconds until fragrant, then add your chopped veggies. Start with the harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli, then add the bell peppers and green onions. Stir fry for 3-5 minutes, just until the veggies are crisp-tender.
Don’t overcook them! The crunch of the vegetables adds a lovely texture to the dish.
Step 6: Combine and Sauce It Up
Return the pork to the pan and pour in the stir fry sauce. Toss everything together to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and everything is nicely glazed.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your pork stir fry hot over steamed rice, jasmine rice, or noodles. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for a bit of flair.
Optional toppings:
- Crushed peanuts
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Tips for the Best Pork Stir Fry
- Use high heat. Stir frying is all about quick cooking at high temperatures.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Overcrowding can steam the ingredients instead of searing them.
- Preheat your wok. A properly heated wok ensures better flavor and texture.
- Slice meat evenly. This ensures consistent cooking and prevents overcooked edges.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze pork stir fry for up to a month. Let it cool before freezing.
- Reheat: Use a skillet for best results. Microwave works too but may affect the texture slightly.
Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving)
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350–400 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 20–25g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
FAQs about Pork Stir Fry Recipe
1. What cut of pork is best for stir fry?
For a tender and flavorful stir fry, lean cuts like pork tenderloin or loin chops are ideal. These cuts cook quickly and absorb flavors well, making them perfect for a sizzling stir fry.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables in my pork stir fry?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and can be just as nutritious as fresh ones. Just ensure they’re thawed and any excess water is drained to avoid soggy results.
3. What are some key spices or sauces for an authentic pork stir fry flavor?
To achieve that savory and slightly spicy taste, consider using ingredients like soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and a dash of sesame oil. These will give your stir fry a robust flavor profile that’s both rich and enticing.
4. How can I make my pork stir fry more tender?
Marinating the pork in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a little oil can help tenderize the meat and keep it juicy during cooking. Also, avoid overcooking the pork; just a few minutes on high heat should do the trick.
5. Is pork stir fry suitable for meal prep?
Pork stir fry is excellent for meal prep! It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
6. Are there any alternatives for those who don’t consume pork?
For those avoiding pork, chicken, beef, or tofu make great substitutes and will still soak up all the delightful flavors of the stir fry sauce.
Conclusion
Pork stir fry is the ultimate weeknight dinner—easy, fast, and bursting with flavor. With tender pork, crisp veggies, and a glossy, mouthwatering sauce, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Plus, it’s super versatile, so you can tweak the ingredients based on your taste or what you have on hand. Once you try this homemade version, you might skip the takeout for good.
