There’s something truly mesmerizing about the sizzle of shredded pork dancing in a hot pan, especially when it’s kissed by the delightful sweetness of bean paste. I first discovered this simple yet outstanding stir-fried dish while experimenting with flavors in my kitchen, and it instantly became a family favorite. Whether you’re tired of mediocre takeout or looking for a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on taste, this Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste is your answer.
The combination of tender pork loin, paired with the vibrant crunch of cucumbers and a savory sweet sauce, creates an unforgettable experience. Plus, this recipe allows you to turn ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary in no time at all. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking just 20 minutes after marinating.
Bold Flavors: The sweet bean paste infuses the pork with a remarkable depth of flavor, making every bite a delight.
Crisp and Fresh: The shredded cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the dish beautifully.
Versatile Inspiration: You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It’s a dish that everyone—from your family to dinner guests—will rave about. Don’t forget to check out more creative ideas on how to incorporate sweet bean paste in your cooking!
Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste Ingredients
For the Pork Marinade
- Pork loin – 300 g, this tender cut is perfect for quick stir-frying and absorbs flavors well.
- Salt – 1/2 tsp, enhances the natural flavor of the pork.
- Rice wine – 15 ml, adds a delightful depth and aroma to the marinade.
- Sesame oil – 1/2 tsp, imparts a lovely nutty flavor that complements the dish.
- Egg white – 1, helps to tenderize the pork and give it a silky texture.
- Cornstarch – 1 tbsp, plus 1 tbsp water, assists in creating a nice crust when stir-frying.
For the Sauce
- Sweet bean paste – 2 tbsp, the star of this dish that brings both sweetness and umami.
- Light soy sauce – 1.5 tbsp, provides saltiness without overpowering the sweetness.
- Dark soy sauce – 2 tsp, adds color and a deeper flavor to the sauce.
- Sugar – 1 tbsp, balances the savory and sweet elements perfectly.
- Water – 20 ml, used to adjust the sauce consistency.
To Serve
- Cucumber – 1 small, shredded, adding freshness and crunch that complements the rich flavors of the pork.
This Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste will not only elevate your dinner game but also entice your taste buds with its amazing flavors and textures!
How to Make Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste
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Trim the pork loin by removing the white skin layer. Cut it into strips, then add the marinade ingredients of salt, rice wine, sesame oil, egg white, and cornstarch. Massage thoroughly until the pork absorbs the marinade.
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Chill the marinated pork by drizzling a little oil over it, covering it with plastic wrap, and placing it in the fridge for 20 minutes. This step ensures the pork stays juicy and flavorful.
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Prepare the cucumber by shredding it into strips. Arrange it on a serving plate to have a fresh base for your final dish.
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Mix together the sweet bean paste ingredients. Combine the sweet bean paste, light and dark soy sauce, sugar, and water in a bowl, stirring well until fully blended.
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Stir fry the chilled pork in a heated frying pan with 2 tablespoons of oil. Cook until the pork separates and turns white, then set it aside.
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Cook the sauce by cleaning the pan, adding another 2 tablespoons of oil, and heating it to medium. Pour in the sweet bean paste mixture and stir until it starts bubbling. Add in the pre-cooked pork and quickly stir fry until the pork darkens and the sauce thickens, nearly drying up. Serve immediately with the shredded cucumber.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste ahead of time is a fantastic way to save effort and enjoy a homemade dinner even on your busiest nights! You can marinate the pork up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the marinade ingredients and coat the pork, then refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and flavorful. The sweet bean paste sauce can also be mixed and refrigerated for up to 3 days without losing its delightful taste. When you’re ready to serve, stir fry the marinated pork and sauce together as instructed, and you’ll have an incredibly satisfying meal that tastes just as good as freshly made!
Expert Tips for Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste
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Prepping the Pork: Ensure you trim all the white skin from the pork loin to prevent a chewy texture in your stir fry.
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Chill for Juiciness: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the pork absorb the marinade and keeps it juicy when cooking.
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Sauce Timing: Always prepare the sauce before cooking the pork. It’s essential to have everything ready to avoid overcooking the meat.
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Temperature Control: Cook the pork on medium heat to achieve that beautiful color and avoid burning the sauce; too high can lead to a burnt taste.
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Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition in your Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste.
What to Serve with Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this savory dish with delightful accompaniments that enhance its flavors and textures.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant side that perfectly absorbs the rich sweet bean sauce, making every bite more satisfying and complete.
- Garlic Bok Choy: The slight bitterness of garlic sautéed bok choy brings a fresh contrast, balancing the sweetness of the pork.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: Adding a zesty and crunchy cucumber salad ties back to the dish’s main ingredients, refreshing the palate in between bites.
- Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light sesame dressing, these noodles offer a comforting element that complements the dish’s Asian flavors beautifully.
- Peanut Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of colorful vegetables tossed in a light peanut sauce adds a satisfying crunch and nutty taste to the meal.
- Chilled Green Tea: This soothing drink helps cleanse the palate, providing a refreshing balance to the dish’s bold flavors.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat combines sticky rice and ripe mango, harmonizing perfectly with the sweet note of the pork dish.
With these pairings, your meal will transport you to a bustling Asian street market, where each dish brings forth a delightful culinary dance!
How to Store and Freeze Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste
Fridge: Store any leftover stir-fried pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: Freeze the pork in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, press out as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm it in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture and prevent dryness.
Serving: When ready to serve, pair it again with fresh shredded cucumber for that delightful crunch that complements the rich flavors of your Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste.
Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste Variations
Feel free to get creative and adjust this dish to your liking with these delightful twists.
- Spicy Upgrade: Add sliced fresh chili or a splash of chili oil for a kick and a bold flavor burst.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pork loin with firm tofu, marinating it the same way for a satisfying meat-free meal.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle in a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to amplify the sweetness and add depth to the dish.
- Crunchy Texture: Toss in some cashews or peanuts during the final stir-fry for an irresistible crunch that complements the tenderness of the pork.
- Herb Infusion: Add chopped green onions or cilantro during the cooking process for a fresh and aromatic enhancement.
- Coconut Twist: Replace the rice wine with coconut aminos for a unique flavor profile that still maintains sweetness.
- Lemon Zest: Grate a bit of fresh lemon or lime zest into the sauce before serving to elevate the flavors and provide a zingy finish.
- Heat it Up: For some extra spice, incorporate a splash of Sriracha or any hot sauce of your choice for an enjoyable heat level.
Unlock the potential of this recipe with these variations and make it your own!
Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pork loin?
Absolutely! When selecting pork loin, look for a cut that has a slight marbling of fat and is bright pink in color. Avoid pieces with dark spots or excessive liquid in the packaging. The more marbling, the more flavorful and tender your pork will be after cooking!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover stir-fried pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can make your pork soggy. This way, you can enjoy your delicious meal again without any loss of flavor!
Can I freeze Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste?
Yes! You can freeze the pork in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, press out as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth for added moisture, and voila!
What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
Very good question! If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a little more water or broth while cooking to reach your desired consistency, stirring continuously. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a couple of extra minutes until it reduces and thickens. Adjusting the sauce is a common but easy fix—don’t be discouraged!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes, it’s essential to consider dietary restrictions! This recipe contains gluten due to the soy sauce, so you can substitute with a gluten-free soy sauce for those with gluten intolerance. Additionally, make sure to use a suitable sweet bean paste if allergies are a concern. Always read ingredient labels carefully when cooking for others!
How do I ensure the pork doesn’t become chewy when frying?
To prevent chewy pork, it’s crucial to remove all white skin from the pork loin and make sure to marinate it well. Use the egg white and cornstarch mixture to tenderize it. Also, stirring it just until it turns white and not overcooking is vital! Keep an eye on the heat, too—medium heat is your best friend.
Savory Stir Fried Shredded Pork with Sweet Bean Paste Delight
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Trim the pork loin by removing the white skin layer. Cut it into strips, then add the marinade ingredients of salt, rice wine, sesame oil, egg white, and cornstarch. Massage thoroughly until the pork absorbs the marinade.
- Chill the marinated pork by drizzling a little oil over it, covering it with plastic wrap, and placing it in the fridge for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the cucumber by shredding it into strips. Arrange it on a serving plate.
- Mix together the sweet bean paste ingredients: sweet bean paste, light and dark soy sauce, sugar, and water in a bowl, stirring well until fully blended.
- Stir fry the chilled pork in a heated frying pan with 2 tablespoons of oil until the pork separates and turns white, then set it aside.
- Cook the sauce by cleaning the pan, adding another 2 tablespoons of oil, heating it to medium, and pouring in the sweet bean paste mixture. Stir until it starts bubbling.
- Add in the pre-cooked pork and quickly stir fry until the pork darkens and the sauce thickens, nearly drying up. Serve immediately with the shredded cucumber.