This Pork and Asparagus Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal. Tender strips of pork and crisp asparagus come together in a yummy sauce that adds flavor to every bite!
This dish is super fast to whip up, making it perfect for busy nights. I love how colorful it is—it’s like a rainbow on my plate! Plus, you can’t go wrong with one-pan meals!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and cooks quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken breast or tofu works great as alternatives. Both have their unique flavors and will absorb the yummy sauces well.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is crisp and sweet. If unavailable, green beans or broccoli are good substitutes. They provide a similar crunch and work beautifully in stir-fries.
Garlic and Ginger: Together, they create a lovely aromatic base for the dish. If you don’t have fresh garlic or ginger on hand, using garlic powder and ground ginger is acceptable, but fresh gives the best flavor!
Soy Sauce: The salty base brings depth to the dish. You can use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter option. If gluten-free, coconut aminos or tamari are excellent alternatives.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, try mushroom sauce for a similar taste minus the seafood.
How Do I Ensure My Pork is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork correctly in a stir-fry is crucial to achieving tenderness. Here are some steps to help you get it right:
- Cut the pork into even, bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Make sure the skillet or wok is hot before adding the pork; this helps to sear the meat and lock in juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This keeps the pork from steaming.
- Cook until just browned and no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes.
These tips will help keep the pork juicy and flavorful in your stir fry!
How to Make Pork and Asparagus Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing and Serving:
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook. So, in about 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious stir fry ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is nice and hot, add the bite-sized pork pieces. Season them with a little salt and pepper. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the pork is nicely browned and cooked through. Then, remove the pork from the pan and set it aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until you can smell the wonderful aroma. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Stir Fry the Vegetables:
Add the asparagus and sliced red bell pepper to the pan. Keep stirring for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. You want them to have a nice crunch!
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked pork to the pan with the vegetables. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch if you’re using it. Pour this sauce over the pork and veggies. Stir well to coat everything, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s heated through and everything is combined nicely.
5. Final Touches:
Taste your stir fry and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you want. Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for a nice finish if you like. Serve hot over your choice of cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy your tasty Pork and Asparagus Stir Fry!
Can I Use Frozen Pork in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork, but be sure to thaw it completely beforehand! The best way to do this is to place the pork in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Make sure to pat it dry with paper towels before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the stir-fry.
Can I Substitute the Asparagus with Another Vegetable?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute asparagus with other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require slightly different cooking times to achieve the perfect crispness, so adjust accordingly!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them for a minute or two, stirring halfway through to heat evenly. You can also toss them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to help revive the dish.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare everything up to step 6 (mixing in the sauce) and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day. When you’re ready to eat, simply heat it in a skillet and cook for an additional couple of minutes to warm everything through and thicken the sauce.
