Craving a quick, flavorful, and healthy weeknight meal? Look no further than this simple stir-fry recipe featuring tender pork and nutritious Chinese kale. This dish is surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks, and delivers a satisfying punch of savory goodness. The vibrant green kale, slightly bitter yet satisfying, perfectly complements the richness of the pork, creating a delicious balance of textures and tastes. You'll be amazed at how quickly this comes together, using ingredients readily available at most grocery stores.
This recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. We'll guide you through each step, from prepping the ingredients to achieving that perfectly tender-crisp kale. Ready to dive in and create this delicious stir-fry? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- wok or large skillet
- mortar and pestle
Ingredients
- Garlic cloves
- Chili peppers: 2
- Shrimp paste: 1 teaspoon
- Pork
- Chinese kale
- Soybean oil
- Water
- Sugar
- Fish sauce
- Oyster sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Black sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Aromatics and Pork
- Crush garlic cloves in a mortar and pestle to prevent splattering.
- Add 2 chili peppers (optional) and pound lightly.
- Add 1 teaspoon of shrimp paste (optional).
- Set aside the garlic, chili, and shrimp paste mixture.
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the garlic, chili, and shrimp paste mixture and stir-fry until fragrant and slightly yellow.
- Add thinly sliced pork and stir-fry until partially cooked.
Step 2. Stir-fry the Greens and Season
- Add Chinese kale and stir-fry until wilted.
- Add water reserved from rinsing the mortar (adjust amount to preference).
- Season with sugar, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and black sesame seeds.
- Stir-fry until everything is well combined and cooked through.
Step 3. Serve
- Serve hot over rice.
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Tips
- Use a wok or large skillet for even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your spice preference.
- The shrimp paste adds a depth of flavor, but is optional.
- Thinly sliced pork cooks faster and more evenly.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of kale?
Yes! While Chinese kale is ideal for its texture, you can substitute with Lacinato (Dinosaur) kale or even regular curly kale. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly.
2. What can I substitute for pork?
Chicken, beef, or even shrimp would be delicious substitutes. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the protein you choose.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite chili garlic sauce during the stir-fry process. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
This simple stir-fry recipe is a testament to how delicious and healthy eating can be. Enjoy the satisfying blend of flavors and textures, knowing you’ve created a quick and nutritious meal. We hope you enjoy this recipe and add it to your regular rotation of go-to dishes!