Craving a comforting, flavour-packed meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Chinese pork shoulder recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Tender, juicy pork infused with aromatic spices and a rich, savory sauce – it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Get ready to elevate your dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Pork
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop a delicious depth of flavor. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma at this stage is incredibly enticing!
Step 3: Adding Vegetables
Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened. Don't overcook the peppers; you want them to retain a bit of crispness.
Step 4: Creating the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). This creates a delicious, flavourful sauce that will coat the pork perfectly.
Step 5: Combining and Simmering
Return the browned pork to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the pork and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over cooked rice. This delightful dish is best served immediately, but leftovers are great reheated the next day!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the pork, work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Thicken the sauce: If the sauce is too thin after simmering, you can add a little more cornstarch mixed with water.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Use different protein: Substitute the pork with chicken thighs or beef for a variation.
- Make it spicier: Add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Chinese pork shoulder recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes. It's a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for those busy weeknights. This recipe offers delicious dishes and is among the best recipes for homemade cooking. Enjoy!