Savory Ground Pork and Cabbage Stir Fry
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious stir fry recipe, look no further than this savory ground pork and cabbage stir fry. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. The combination of tender ground pork, crispy cabbage, and a medley of aromatic seasonings will leave you craving for more. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, sesame seeds
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering and preparing all the ingredients. Shred the cabbage, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Having everything ready before you start cooking will make the process smoother.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Pork
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the cooked ground pork. Stir fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir Fry the Cabbage
Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and toss with the ground pork and aromatics. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage is tender-crisp. You want it to maintain some of its crunchiness.
Step 5: Season the Stir Fry
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the stir fry and stir well to coat all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the savory ground pork and cabbage stir fry to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Variations
This recipe is versatile and allows for various substitutions and additions to suit your taste preferences:
Vegetarian Option:
Replace the ground pork with crumbled tofu or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version of this stir fry.
Additional Vegetables:
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the stir fry. Bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, and snow peas are great options that will add color and texture to the dish.
Spice it Up:
If you like some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of chili oil to the stir fry. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
Tips
- Make sure to shred the cabbage into thin strips for even cooking.
- For extra flavor, marinate the ground pork in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a saucier stir fry, double the sauce ingredients.
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to customize the flavor of the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This savory ground pork and cabbage stir fry is a simple yet satisfying dish that you can whip up in no time. With its delicious combination of flavors and versatility, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your dietary preferences. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering stir fry that will tantalize your taste buds!
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of ground pork?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or beef would work well in this recipe. You can even use thinly sliced pork or chicken if you prefer.
Can I make this stir fry gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for the regular soy sauce. Just make sure to check the labels of the other sauces you use to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While you can freeze leftovers, keep in mind that the texture of the cabbage may become softer upon reheating. It’s best to consume the stir fry fresh for optimal taste and texture.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes, you can use pre-shredded cabbage to save time. However, fresh cabbage tends to have a crisper texture and better flavor.
What can I serve with this stir fry?
This stir fry pairs well with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
