Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This Pork with Orange recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The sweet and savory combination of tender pork and zesty orange sauce is simply irresistible. This homemade recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it's surprisingly easy to prepare even for beginner cooks. Get ready to experience a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Pork
Season the pork cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork and sear on all sides until nicely browned. This step is crucial for developing delicious flavor and a beautiful crust. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté 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.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Pour in the orange juice, chicken broth, and soy sauce. Stir in the brown sugar and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to simmer until the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the seared pork to the skillet. Add the orange zest. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your pork cubes. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the pork should register 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pork with Orange:
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest make a significant difference in the flavor of the dish.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the pork in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snow peas during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Variations:
- Spicy Pork with Orange: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped chili pepper to the sauce for extra heat.
- Garlic Lovers Delight: Add more garlic! Use up to 4 cloves or even a teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute some of the orange juice with lemon juice or grapefruit juice for a different citrus flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This delicious Pork with Orange recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined. It’s perfect for a quick dinner idea or a more elaborate meal. Try this best recipe and impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking skills! Enjoy!