Pork and noodles in sweet soy sauce

Recipe for Pork Noodles with Sweet Soy Sauce

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

Welcome to the world of Asian delicacies! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a recipe for pork noodles, dressed in sweet soy sauce, a dish that combines the succulent texture of meat with the crunch of vegetables, in a symphony of flavors that will transport you directly to the heart of a lively bistro.

A brief history

Noodles have a long history, with roots stretching back thousands of years, being a staple food in many cultures. This simple and quick recipe is inspired by Asian culinary traditions, where noodles are often combined with meat and vegetables, resulting in a balanced and delicious dish.

Ingredients

- 250 grams of noodles (I used Indonesian noodles, but you can also opt for rice noodles or udon)
- 250 grams of pork tenderloin (or other cuts of pork, but tenderloin is more tender)
- 1 teaspoon of Chinese five-spice mix (an aromatic blend that adds an exotic note)
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably sesame oil for an authentic taste, but you can also use vegetable oil)
- 200 ml of sweet soy sauce (ketjap manis, a flavorful and slightly viscous sauce)
- 2 cm of fresh ginger (for an extra touch of freshness and flavor)
- 800 grams of mixed Chinese vegetables (bean sprouts, leeks, red, yellow, green bell peppers, red onion)

Step by step

1. Boiling the noodles: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. When the water begins to boil, add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions. This usually takes between 5 and 10 minutes, depending on the type of noodles. Once done, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Preparing the meat: While the noodles are boiling, take the pork tenderloin and evenly dust it with the Chinese five-spice mix, salt, and pepper. This will help intensify the flavors and achieve a delicious crust.

3. Frying the meat: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan (ideally, use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution). Add the meat and fry for about 7 minutes, turning frequently to brown evenly. In the last 2 minutes, add the 2 tablespoons of sweet soy sauce, which will caramelize the meat and give it an appetizing shine.

4. Salting the vegetables: Once the meat is cooked, transfer it to a plate and keep it warm. In the same pan, add the remaining oil and grated ginger. Sauté the ginger for 1 minute until it starts to release its aroma, then add the mixed vegetables. Cook the vegetables for 4 minutes until they become slightly tender but retain their crunch.

5. Combining the ingredients: Add the boiled noodles to the pan, along with the remaining soy sauce. Mix everything well and let it heat for a minute. Then, slice the meat into thin strips and mix it with the noodles and vegetables.

6. Serving: Serve the dish immediately, garnished with a little chopped green onion or toasted sesame seeds for an attractive look and added aroma. It’s a dish that not only looks good but is also delicious!

Useful tips

- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the pork with tofu or tempeh, which absorb the flavors of the sauce very well. Make sure to fry them well to achieve a crispy texture.

- Vegetable mix: You can use any vegetables you prefer or have on hand. Carrots, broccoli, or mushrooms are excellent in this recipe.

- Alternative noodles: Depending on your preferences, you can opt for rice noodles or even whole grain pasta for a healthier variant.

Nutritional information

This recipe is rich in protein due to the pork, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Approximately, one serving contains around 600 calories, but this number may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use salty soy sauce?: Yes, but you will need to adjust the amount of salt you add to the meat to avoid an overly salty dish.

- How long can I keep the leftovers?: Pork noodles can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. I recommend reheating them in a pan to maintain the texture.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?: A light beer or a dry white wine are excellent choices. For a non-alcoholic option, green tea would be perfect.

I hope this recipe for pork noodles with sweet soy sauce brings you joy in the kitchen and, most importantly, at the table! Try to add a personal touch to the dish, perhaps a secret ingredient you love, and share the result with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!