This Garlic Pork Stir Fry is quick and full of flavor! Juicy pieces of pork are cooked with fresh veggies, all coated in a delicious garlic sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
It’s a total winner for dinner, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes. I love serving it over rice, and yes, I’m always sneaking extra garlic sauce on top— because who can resist that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: Pork shoulder or tenderloin works best because they remain tender when cooked. If you’re in a pinch, chicken or tofu can be great substitutes, too, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for the aromatic base. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work, but use about one-eighth the amount since it’s much stronger.
Bell Peppers: The mix of red and yellow peppers adds color and sweetness. Feel free to swap in green peppers or use whatever you have on hand like zucchini or carrots for a different flavor.
Vegetable Oil: Use high-heat oil for frying, but if you prefer something healthier, avocado oil or grapeseed oil would be great alternatives. Olive oil isn’t ideal for high heat but can work in a pinch.
Oyster Sauce: This sauce adds depth, but if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, mushroom sauce can be a similar substitute. It gives a similar umami flavor without seafood.
How Do I Ensure My Pork is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to juicy and tender pork in a stir-fry is to avoid overcooking it. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Slice the pork thinly against the grain for tenderness. This helps it cook quickly and evenly.
- Cook the pork in batches if your pan is crowded. This helps it sear instead of steam.
- When the pork is browned and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), remove it from the pan. It will continue to cook slightly with residual heat.
How to Make Garlic Pork Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) pork shoulder or tenderloin, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut in half
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced (reserve half for garnish)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any high-heat oil)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
For Serving:
- 1 cup cooked white rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Pork Stir Fry takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by cutting the pork shoulder or tenderloin into thin, bite-sized strips. This helps it cook quickly and remain tender. Season the pieces lightly with salt and pepper to ensure they stay flavorful.
2. Cook the Pork:
In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork strips. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the pork is browned and cooked through. When done, remove the pork from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic because it can turn bitter.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the sliced onion, green beans, and both bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they are crispy but tender. This keeps the vibrant colors and the crunch that makes stir fries great.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked pork to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Mix everything well so the flavors blend together. Allow it to cook for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Season and Toss:
Sprinkle the chili flakes and half of the sliced green onions over the stir fry. Toss everything together to combine, adjusting the heat by adding more chili flakes if you like it spicier!
7. Serve:
To serve, spoon the garlic pork stir fry over a bed of cooked white rice. This adds a delicious base that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the dish.
8. Garnish:
Finally, finish your dish by garnishing it with the remaining sliced green onions and some fresh cilantro on top. This adds not only color but also a burst of fresh flavor!
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Garlic Pork Stir Fry! It’s a beautifully colored dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms would be excellent additions or substitutes to this stir fry.
What Can I Substitute for the Oyster Sauce?
If you prefer not to use oyster sauce, a good alternative is mushroom sauce for a similar umami flavor, or you can use hoisin sauce for a sweeter touch. Soy sauce can also work but may require a little extra seasoning to balance the dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! If you like your stir fry spicy, you can increase the chili flakes or add fresh sliced chili peppers when cooking. Just start with a little and adjust according to your taste!
