Craving a vibrant and flavorful stir-fry that's both quick to make and bursting with unique tastes? Look no further than this spicy pickled bamboo shoot and minced pork stir-fry! This recipe masterfully combines the tangy zest of pickled bamboo shoots with the savory richness of minced pork, all balanced with a fiery kick of chilies and aromatic spices. The contrasting textures—the crisp-tender bamboo shoots and the juicy pork—create a delightful eating experience that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s the perfect dish for a weeknight meal or a lively gathering, offering a delicious departure from ordinary stir-fries.
This recipe is incredibly versatile; feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference and add other vegetables to enhance the flavor profile. Ready to experience the magic of this delicious stir-fry? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create a culinary masterpiece together!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Sieve
Ingredients
- Minced pork (with some fat)
- Sour pickled bamboo shoots (bottled)
- Kaffir lime leaves
- Cooking oil (soybean oil recommended)
- Sugar
- Chili peppers (sliced diagonally)
- Clams
- Fish sauce
- Red curry paste
- Spicy basil leaves
- Oyster sauce
- Clean water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Bamboo Shoots and Aromatics
- Boil the pickled bamboo shoots in water for 5-8 minutes to remove excess sourness and any potential chemicals. Strain the bamboo shoots using a sieve and set aside to air dry.
- Heat a pan and add oil. Once hot, add red curry paste and stir-fry over low heat until it turns yellow and fragrant.
- Add torn kaffir lime leaves to the pan and stir-fry for a short while to remove any fishy smell.
Step 2. Cook the Pork and Bamboo Shoots
- Add minced pork to the pan and stir-fry with the curry paste, increasing the heat to medium-high. Stir-fry until the pork is cooked through.
- Add the boiled and drained pickled bamboo shoots to the pan.
- Stir-fry everything until well combined and the pork is cooked. Season with oyster sauce, fish sauce, and a little sugar. Add a small amount of clean water to help the seasonings blend.
Step 3. Season and Finish the Stir-Fry
- Increase the heat to high and stir-fry until all the seasonings are well incorporated.
- Add sliced chili peppers (red and bell peppers) and stir-fry until slightly softened.
- Finally, add the spicy basil leaves and stir-fry over high heat until cooked and fragrant.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Use medium-low heat when stir-frying the curry paste to prevent burning.
- Use high heat when stir-frying the pork to prevent it from becoming too dry and watery.
- Adjust the amount of sugar, fish sauce, and oyster sauce to your liking.
- Stir-frying the basil at high heat helps to retain its fragrance.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh bamboo shoots instead of pickled ones?
While you can, the flavor will be drastically different. Pickled bamboo shoots provide a unique tang and texture that fresh ones lack. If using fresh, you'll need to blanch them first and adjust seasoning accordingly.
2. What can I substitute for the pork?
Chicken, beef, or even tofu would work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the protein you choose.
This spicy pickled bamboo shoot and minced pork stir-fry is a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with bold flavors. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a satisfying weeknight meal or a show-stopping addition to your next dinner party. We hope you savor every delicious bite!