Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals? Look no further! Ground pork is a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a wide range of flavorful and aromatic dishes from across Asia. From spicy stir-fries to comforting bowls, we’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering recipes to spice up your cooking routine.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the flavors of Asia, showcasing popular dishes like Spicy Szechuan Ground Pork Stir-Fry and Thai Basil Pork with Rice. We’ll also explore lesser-known gems like Cambodian Pork and Green Bean Stir-Fry and Laotian Ground Pork Larb Salad.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to experiment with new flavors, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Spicy Szechuan Ground Pork Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with the comfort of a classic stir-fry, featuring spicy ground pork and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and crushed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ground pork, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the pork mixture and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes).
3. Add remaining oil, onion, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender-crisp (about 4 minutes).
4. Stir in crushed Szechuan peppercorns and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes.
Thai Basil Pork with Rice
This flavorful Thai-inspired dish combines tender pork, aromatic basil, and savory sauce with a side of fluffy rice. A perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or pork chops
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup Thai basil leaves
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and Thai basil leaves. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), lime juice, sugar, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked pork back into the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Serve with steamed rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Caramelized Ground Pork Bowls
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with this simple yet impressive recipe for caramelized ground pork bowls. This dish combines the sweetness of caramelized onions and fish sauce with the savory flavor of ground pork, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 baguette, split lengthwise
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
– Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
2. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20 minutes).
3. Stir in garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and water. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
4. Warm baguette by wrapping it in foil and baking at 375°F for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble bowls by spooning caramelized pork mixture onto toasted baguette and garnishing with cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean Ground Pork Lettuce Wraps
Savor the flavors of Korea with these crispy lettuce wraps filled with savory ground pork and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 4 cups lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped (optional)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the lettuce leaves by washing and drying them thoroughly.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing a spoonful of the ground pork mixture onto a lettuce leaf, followed by chopped kimchi (if using), toasted sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Pork Gyoza Filling
A traditional Japanese potsticker filling, this recipe combines the savory flavors of pork, soy sauce, and ginger to create a delicious and authentic gyoza filling.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
• 1/4 cup grated carrot
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, grated carrot, and minced garlic.
2. Add soy sauce, sake, grated ginger, and white pepper to the mixture. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
– Use as filling for Japanese-style gyoza dumplings or wontons, steaming or pan-frying until crispy and golden brown.
Chinese Mapo Tofu with Ground Pork
A classic Sichuan dish that combines the creaminess of tofu, the richness of ground pork, and the bold flavors of chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1-2 teaspoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the tofu and stir to combine.
5. Add the Sichuan peppercorns, chili bean paste, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Pork Siomai Dumplings
In this recipe, we’ll explore the flavorful world of Pork Siomai Dumplings, a popular street food in the Philippines. These tender and savory dumplings are typically served steamed or pan-fried and enjoyed with a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cabbage
– 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 onion, chopped cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon 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, pressing the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Steam the siomai dumplings for 10-12 minutes or pan-fry until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (steaming) or 3-4 minutes per side (pan-frying)
Malaysian Laksa with Ground Pork
This hearty noodle soup is a staple of Malaysian cuisine, combining rich flavors and aromas from Southeast Asia. This recipe adds the savory twist of ground pork to create a comforting and warming meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of laksa noodles
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon of laksa spice mix (available at Asian markets)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the laksa noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or saucepan over medium-high heat.
3. Add chopped onion, ground pork, garlic, and ginger; cook until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spatula as needed.
4. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Add laksa spice mix and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked noodles, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Indonesian Pork Mie Goreng
Mie goreng is a popular Indonesian dish that combines the flavors of stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and meat. In this recipe, we’ll add tender pork to create a savory and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g pork strips
– 2 cups mixed noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 1 minute.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cooked pork back into the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked noodles with the wok mixture. Stir-fry until well combined, about 1 minute.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cambodian Pork and Green Bean Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cambodian cuisine with the simplicity of a stir-fry, resulting in a delicious and quick meal. Served with steamed jasmine rice or noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the green beans, garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and pepper to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the green beans are tender-crisp.
4. Return the pork to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt to taste and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Laotian Ground Pork Larb Salad
This classic Laotian dish is a flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the savory taste of ground pork with the brightness of herbs and chilies. With its bold flavors and textures, this larb salad is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon palm sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1-2 Thai chilies, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground pork in a pan until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pork, fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, palm sugar, garlic, cilantro, mint leaves, scallions, and chilies.
3. Mix well to combine, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Singaporean Chili Pork Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Singapore with this spicy and savory chili pork noodles recipe. A staple in many Singaporean households, this dish is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy notes.
Ingredients:
– 200g pork belly or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chili sauce (such as sambal oelek)
– 2 cups chicken stock
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup noodles of your choice (e.g., rice noodles or egg noodles)
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
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. In the same wok, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add ginger and chili sauce; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add chicken stock, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); bring to a simmer.
6. Return pork to the wok; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
8. Serve chili pork mixture over noodles; garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice
This classic Taiwanese dish combines tender braised pork belly with flavorful rice, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can recreate this beloved comfort food at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons Chinese cooking wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, combine pork belly, soy sauce, sugar, cooking wine, water, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. Remove pork from braising liquid and slice into thin strips. Serve with cooked rice.
Cooking Time:
– Braising time: 2 hours
– Cooking rice: 15-20 minutes
Thai Pork Laab with Fresh Herbs
This classic Thai dish is a flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional laab, featuring juicy pork and fragrant fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped Thai basil
– 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh bean sprouts, lime wedges, and toasted rice for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine pork, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic, cilantro, basil, mint, and salt.
2. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork mixture and cook, breaking up with a spatula, until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with bean sprouts, lime wedges, and toasted rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Pork and Cabbage Dumplings
This recipe yields a delicious and authentic Chinese dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Juicy pork and crunchy cabbage are wrapped in a delicate dumpling wrapper, then pan-fried to a golden brown perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 20-24 dumpling wrappers (usually found in the produce section or international aisle of most supermarkets)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix until just combined.
2. Lay a dumpling wrapper on a flat surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pan-fry the dumplings for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Ground Pork Bibimbap
This classic Korean dish is a staple of comfort food, with tender ground pork and colorful vegetables served over a bed of fluffy rice. With this recipe, you can easily recreate the flavors of Korea in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots, mushrooms)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground pork in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add soy sauce, Gochujang, and garlic; cook until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the skillet; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve the ground pork mixture over a bed of white rice in a bowl.
5. Drizzle with sesame oil and top with a fried egg (if using).
6. Cook time: 15-20 minutes.
Vietnamese Pork and Vermicelli Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of grilled pork, crunchy vermicelli noodles, and tangy pickled vegetables, making it a perfect side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 8 ounces vermicelli noodles
– 1 cup pickled carrots and daikon (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill pork strips for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
2. Cook vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Brush the mixture onto the grilled pork during the last minute of cooking.
4. Combine cooked pork, vermicelli noodles, pickled carrots and daikon, and cilantro in a large bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Pork Okonomiyaki Pancakes
Experience the flavors of Japan with this savory pancake recipe, packed with juicy pork, crunchy vegetables, and a sweet and spicy sauce. This popular street food is easy to make at home and perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated daikon radish
– 1/4 cup diced green onion
– 1/2 cup diced pork (such as shoulder or belly)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon okonomiyaki sauce (or substitute with a mixture of Worcestershire and ketchup)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and water until smooth. Add daikon radish, green onion, and pork. Mix well.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Brush with vegetable oil.
3. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter mixture onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the bottom is crispy.
4. Loosen the pancake with a spatula and flip. Cook for another 2 minutes, until the other side is golden brown.
5. Serve hot with okonomiyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sliced green onion.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (per batch)
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious meal ideas? Try these 18 flavorful Asian-inspired ground pork recipes perfect for weeknights! From spicy Szechuan stir-fries to Thai basil-infused dishes, and from Vietnamese caramelized bowls to Korean lettuce wraps, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe combines the rich flavors of Asia with the convenience of ground pork. Whether you’re in the mood for savory, sweet, or spicy, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So go ahead, get cooking, and explore the world of Asian cuisine!
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