Savory Pork Chow Mein Stir-Fry
Experience the authentic taste of Chinese cuisine right in your kitchen with this Savory Pork Chow Mein Stir-Fry. This dish features tender, thinly sliced pork marinated to perfection, sautéed with crunchy vegetables and umami-packed mushrooms, delivering a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe allows for customization with your preferred level of soy sauce for added depth. With the optional minced garlic for an aromatic twist and the crispy toasted almonds for a crunchy finish, it's a dish that will surely impress your family and friends. Say goodbye to take-out and hello to homemade goodness!
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
17
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean pork
1.5 lbs (thinly sliced)
garlic cloves
3 (chopped (optional))
cornstarch
1/4 cup (divided)
sugar
2 teaspoons
soy sauce
5 tablespoons (divided, more if desired)
vegetable oil
2 tablespoons
shortening
2 tablespoons
water
1 3/4 cups (divided)
celery
2 stalks (diced)
onion
1 large (chopped)
molasses
1 tablespoon
water chestnuts
1 (8 ounce) can (sliced)
bean sprouts
1 lb (or more)
mushrooms
1 (4 ounce) can (drained)
salt and pepper
(to taste)
green onion
1 bunch (chopped (optional))
almonds
(blanched and lightly toasted)
Instructions
1
Slice the lean pork into thin strips and set aside.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with the sugar. Stir in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, mixing until well combined.
3
Pour the marinade over the pork strips and toss well to ensure all the pieces are coated. Allow the pork to marinate for 20 minutes.
4
Heat 2 tablespoons of shortening in a wok or large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated pork to the pan and brown lightly on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. If using, add the chopped garlic now and sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
5
Drizzle in the remaining 4 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 1/2 cups of water. Bring to a simmer, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6
After 45 minutes, add the diced celery and chopped onion to the pan. Continue to simmer for an additional 15 minutes, covered.
7
In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of water with the remaining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to create a slurry, then stir this mixture into the meat and vegetable mixture in the pan.
8
Add the molasses, drained water chestnuts, bean sprouts, and drained mushrooms to the pan. Stir well and heat everything thoroughly, about 5 minutes.
9
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10
To serve, garnish each serving with chopped green onions and lightly toasted almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
Nutrition Information
15
Fat
20
Carbs
23
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Pork Chow Mein Stir-Fry?
It is an authentic Chinese-inspired dish featuring tender marinated pork, crunchy vegetables, and umami-packed mushrooms.
How many calories are in a serving?
This recipe contains approximately 300 calories per serving.
What is the protein content of this dish?
Each serving provides about 23 grams of protein.
How much fat is in this pork chow mein?
There are 15 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates does it contain?
There are 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What type of pork is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of lean pork, thinly sliced.
How long should I marinate the pork?
The pork should be marinated for at least 20 minutes to ensure it is well-coated and flavorful.
What ingredients are in the pork marinade?
The marinade consists of 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, sugar, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
How long do I brown the pork?
Brown the pork in a wok or large pan for about 5 to 7 minutes on medium-high heat.
Is garlic required for this recipe?
Garlic is optional, but you can add 3 chopped cloves for an aromatic twist.
How much soy sauce is used in total?
The recipe uses 5 tablespoons of soy sauce in total, divided between the marinade and the simmering liquid.
What is the total simmering time for the meat?
The meat simmers for a total of 60 minutes: 45 minutes alone and another 15 minutes after adding celery and onion.
When should I add the celery and onion?
Add the diced celery and chopped onion after the initial 45 minutes of simmering.
How is the sauce thickened?
The sauce is thickened using a slurry made from 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 1/4 cup of water.
What vegetables are included in this stir-fry?
The dish includes celery, onion, water chestnuts, bean sprouts, and mushrooms.
Why is molasses added to the recipe?
One tablespoon of molasses is added near the end of cooking for depth of flavor and color.
How should I prepare the mushrooms?
Use one 4-ounce can of mushrooms, making sure they are drained before adding them to the pan.
What kind of bean sprouts should I use?
The recipe suggests using 1 lb or more of bean sprouts.
What are the recommended garnishes?
Garnish the dish with chopped green onions and lightly toasted almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
Can I adjust the saltiness?
Yes, you can add more soy sauce if desired and season with salt and pepper to taste.
What fat is used for the initial browning?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of shortening to brown the marinated pork.
Is this recipe good for beginners?
Yes, it is described as a great way to experience authentic Chinese cuisine at home without needing takeout.
How many stalks of celery are needed?
You will need 2 stalks of diced celery.
Should the almonds be prepared in a specific way?
The almonds should be blanched and lightly toasted for the best texture and flavor.
How many onions does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for 1 large chopped onion.
How much water is needed for the recipe?
A total of 1 3/4 cups of water is used, divided between the simmering liquid and the cornstarch slurry.
Can I use fresh bean sprouts?
Yes, the recipe specifies 1 lb of bean sprouts, which are typically used fresh.
Are water chestnuts canned or fresh?
The recipe uses one 8-ounce can of sliced water chestnuts.
What is the primary cooking vessel recommended?
A wok or a large saute pan is recommended for cooking this stir-fry.
What is the final step before serving?
The final step is to season with salt and pepper and add the final garnishes of green onion and toasted almonds.