Chinese cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, bold spices, and diverse cooking techniques. And when it comes to pork, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering dishes to explore. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the many flavors and textures of Chinese pork recipes. From classic stir-fries to slow-cooked braises, and from tender dumplings to crispy pancakes, we’ve gathered 18 savory pork recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Sweet and Sour Pork
This classic Chinese dish is a crowd-pleaser, with tender pork coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that’s perfect for serving with steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic.
2. Add the pork pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the sweet and sour mixture.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add the pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, whisk together cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 1 minute.
8. Return the pork to the skillet and toss to coat with the sweet and sour sauce.
9. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
10. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)
Char Siu, a classic Cantonese dish, is a sweet and savory BBQ pork that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sticky glaze and tender meat, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the pork strips to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove pork from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Place pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with sesame oil.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the glaze is caramelized and the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Twice-Cooked Pork
This popular Sichuan dish is a masterclass in texture and flavor, with tender pork shoulder cooked to perfection. With just the right balance of spices and aromatics, this twice-cooked pork recipe will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 scallion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Add the pork chunks and toss until coated.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the pork for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. Stir-fry garlic and ginger paste for 30 seconds, then add the cooked pork back into the wok. Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)
A classic Chinese dish, Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou) is a tender and flavorful main course that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe yields a rich and savory sauce, ideal for serving with steamed buns or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, sliced
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup water
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick.
3. Add pork belly and water to the pot, making sure that the meat is covered with the braising liquid.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork Dumplings (Jiaozi)
Experience the traditional Chinese comfort food with this simple recipe for pork dumplings, also known as Jiaozi. These steamed or pan-fried treats are a staple in many Asian cuisines and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, grated ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling, making sure there are no air pockets inside.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling. Cook the dumplings according to your preference: steam for 8-10 minutes or pan-fry in oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Pork and Chive Stir-Fry
Pork and Chive Stir-Fry Recipe
Summary: A simple and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines the savory taste of pork with the freshness of chives.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chives, chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped chives to the pan and stir-fry for 1 minute until they start to wilt.
5. Return the pork strips to the pan and stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes, until the pork is fully coated in the sauce and the chives are well distributed.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mapo Tofu with Minced Pork
A spicy Sichuan dish that combines the creaminess of tofu with the savory flavor of minced pork, all wrapped up in a bold and aromatic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 pound minced pork
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and sugar to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the minced pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as needed. Remove from the wok.
3. In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, then the garlic, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns. Cook for 10 seconds.
4. Add the chili bean paste and cook for another minute.
5. Add the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch mixture. Stir to combine.
6. Return the cooked pork to the wok and stir in the tofu cubes.
7. Season with salt and sugar to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork and Shrimp Wontons
Pork and Shrimp Wontons: A Savory Delight
These crispy wontons filled with a flavorful pork and shrimp mixture are perfect as an appetizer or main course. This recipe yields 20-25 wontons, enough for 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-25 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, shrimp, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork-shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the wonton.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the wontons and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve the wontons hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Pork Congee (Jook)
Pork Congee (Jook) Recipe
A comforting and nourishing Chinese rice porridge, Pork Congee is a staple dish in many Asian households. This recipe is a simple and flavorful take on the classic, perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of uncooked glutinous rice
– 4 cups of water
– 1 pound of pork bones (you can use any leftover pork bones or purchase them at an Asian market)
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Scallions and soy sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork bones and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, onion, and ginger to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Drain and rinse the soaked glutinous rice, then add it to the pot with 2 cups of water.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the congee has thickened.
6. Season with salt to taste, then serve hot. Garnish with scallions and soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
Pork and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of pork with the crunch and sweetness of cabbage, all wrapped up in a savory stir-fry sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups chopped cabbage (green or napa work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, cabbage, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Cook until the cabbage is tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Return the pork to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce
This recipe combines tender pork ribs with a rich and flavorful black bean sauce, perfect for a delicious and savory meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together black beans, beef broth, brown sugar, and cumin.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the ribs with cooking oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the black bean sauce over the ribs, making sure they are fully coated.
6. Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ribs are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Pork and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A flavorful and savory stir-fry that combines tender pork, earthy mushrooms, and crunchy vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. Add mushrooms and onion; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, broccoli, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Return pork to the wok; stir-fry until combined and heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Pork and Eggplant Stir-Fry
A flavorful and savory stir-fry that combines the richness of pork with the tender sweetness of eggplant, perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add another tablespoon of sesame oil if needed, then add the eggplant slices. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Return the pork to the pan, along with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes, until the flavors are well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Pork and Bamboo Shoot Stir-Fry
Quickly cook pork and bamboo shoots in a savory stir-fry with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a flavorful Asian-inspired dish. This recipe serves 2-3 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder or belly, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup bamboo shoots (canned or fresh), drained and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
4. Add the bamboo shoots to the pan and stir-fry for 2 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Return the cooked pork to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork and Taro Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender pork with sweet taro, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or boneless pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium taro roots, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the taro, garlic, and onion; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Pork and Water Chestnut Stir-Fry
This recipe combines tender pork, crunchy water chestnuts, and savory soy sauce in a flavorful stir-fry dish that’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup water chestnuts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pan.
4. Add bell peppers, garlic, water chestnuts, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, and salt. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return pork to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork and Scallion Pancakes
Pork and Scallion Pancakes Recipe
Summary: Crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these savory pancakes are packed with flavorful pork and scallions. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup diced cooked pork (such as belly or shoulder)
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
3. Add diced pork and scallions to the batter, mixing until well combined.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Using a ladle, scoop small amounts of batter into the hot oil.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain pancakes on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total.
Pork and Noodle Soup
This hearty soup is a comforting blend of tender pork, soft noodles, and flavorful vegetables, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or ground pork
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir in the cooked noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of China with these 18 mouth-watering pork recipes. From classic dishes like Sweet and Sour Pork and Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork) to comforting Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou) and savory Stir-Fry variations, this collection has something for every taste. Explore the versatility of pork in recipes like Pork Dumplings (Jiaozi), Pork Wontons, and Pork Congee (Jook). Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Mapo Tofu with Minced Pork or hearty Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce, these flavorful dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.