Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Savory Teriyaki Pork & Veggie Bowl?
It is a hearty one-dish meal combining tender pork chunks and fresh vegetables glazed in a homemade sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice.
What kind of pork is best for this recipe?
Pork tenderloin or pork loin are excellent choices as they are lean and stay tender when cut into bite-sized pieces and sautéed quickly.
Can I substitute the pork with another protein?
Yes, you can easily substitute the pork with chicken breast, beef strips, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
How do I make the homemade teriyaki sauce?
Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, and cornstarch in a saucepan, then boil until the mixture thickens.
Which vegetables work best in this stir-fry?
A mix of broccoli, carrots, water chestnuts, and snow peas provides a great variety of textures and colors, but any stir-fry-friendly vegetable will work.
How long does it take to cook the pork?
The pork pieces should be sautéed for approximately 5 to 7 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it contains soy sauce which has gluten. To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
What is the purpose of the cornstarch on the pork?
Lightly coating the pork in cornstarch helps it develop a golden crust when sautéed and allows the teriyaki sauce to cling better to the meat.
Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead?
Yes, you can use store-bought sauce for convenience, though the homemade version allows you to control the sweetness and thickness.
How do I prevent the garlic and ginger from burning?
Add the minced ginger and garlic after the pork is removed from the pan, and sauté them with the vegetables for only about 2 minutes.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely. You can add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or fresh chili peppers to the sauce or the stir-fry for an extra kick.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep as the flavors meld together well and it can be easily reheated throughout the week.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What is the best way to reheat the teriyaki bowl?
Reheat in a microwave-safe dish or in a pan over medium heat, adding a small splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen stir-fry vegetable mixes can be used; just ensure they are fully heated through and drained of excess water.
What kind of rice should I serve this with?
Fluffy white rice like Jasmine or Basmati is traditional, but brown rice or even cauliflower rice are great alternatives.
Can I replace the brown sugar in the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit sweetener.
What type of oil is best for stir-frying?
High-smoke point oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are best for the high heat of stir-frying.
Do I need a wok to make this recipe?
No, while a wok is great for stir-frying, a large sauté pan or a heavy-bottomed skillet will work just as well.
How many servings does this recipe make?
With 2 lbs of pork and 4 cups of rice, this recipe typically serves 4 to 6 people.
What if the teriyaki sauce is too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, simply whisk in a tablespoon of water or low-sodium chicken broth at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
How do I prep the fresh ginger?
Peel the skin off using the edge of a spoon, then finely mince the ginger or use a microplane grater for a smooth texture.
Can I add toppings to this bowl?
Yes, sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or even a drizzle of sriracha mayo make excellent toppings.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but you may need to cook the pork in batches to ensure it browns properly rather than steaming in a crowded pan.
Is this a kid-friendly recipe?
Yes, the sweet and savory flavor of the teriyaki sauce is generally very popular with children.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Definitely. You can prepare the sauce and store it in a jar in the refrigerator for up to a week before using it.
Can I use garlic powder if I don't have fresh cloves?
Yes, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder to replace the two fresh minced cloves in the stir-fry step.
How do I know when the sauce is boiled enough?
The sauce is ready when it reaches a full boil and noticeably thickens to a glossy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Can I add nuts to this dish?
Yes, adding toasted cashews or peanuts at the end can provide a nice crunch to the bowl.
What should I do if the pork is sticking to the pan?
Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the oil and pork, and don't try to flip the pork until it has naturally released from the pan surface.