Pork goulash with wok vegetables and rice

Pork goulash with wok vegetables and rice: a hearty and flavorful recipe

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm and comforting meal, bursting with enticing aromas? Pork goulash with wok vegetables and rice is exactly what you need for a satisfying dinner that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a splash of color to your table. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want to treat your family to a delicious meal without too much effort.

The history of goulash:
Over time, goulash has been a popular dish, appreciated for its versatility. Whether made with pork, beef, or even vegetables, goulash brings together simple ingredients to create a dish rich in flavors. This recipe adds a touch of modernity by using a wok, which ensures quick and even cooking of the ingredients.

Ingredients:
- 400 g mixed vegetables (from a frozen bag, such as carrots, peppers, broccoli)
- 200 g pork (choose tenderloin or leg for a juicy texture)
- 1 piece of fresh ginger (about 1 cm), peeled
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 cup of rice (preferably basmati or jasmine for a fragrant taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil (sunflower or sesame for a slightly different flavor)
- Warm water (about 1-1.5 liters, depending on desired consistency)

Step by step for a perfect pork goulash:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cutting the pork into strips about 2 cm wide. This will ensure even cooking and allow the flavors to absorb. Mince the garlic and grate the peeled ginger. These two ingredients will add a note of freshness and flavor to your dish.

2. Sauté the vegetables:
In a heated wok, add the oil and let it heat for 1-2 minutes. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and let them sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is for them to become slightly crispy and retain their vibrant color.

3. Adding water:
After the vegetables have sautéed, add warm water until they are completely covered. This will help cook the vegetables evenly and create a delicious base for the goulash.

4. Incorporate the flavors:
Add the crushed garlic and grated ginger to the wok, stirring well to combine their flavors with the vegetables. Let them simmer for 5-7 minutes for the flavors to intensify.

5. Cooking the meat:
Now it's time to add the strips of pork. Mix well and let it simmer until the water starts to evaporate. This step is crucial as it will help the meat brown slightly and develop rich flavors.

6. Add more water:
When the water has evaporated, add more warm water, just enough to cover the meat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the goulash simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender. Depending on your preferences, you can add water if you notice it's thickening too much.

7. Preparing the rice:
Meanwhile, in a separate pot, add one cup of rice and three cups of water with a pinch of salt. Boil on low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When it's almost cooked, cover the pot with a lid and turn off the heat, letting the rice steam in the residual heat.

8. Serving:
Once the goulash and rice are ready, serve them together. An interesting idea would be to add some fresh coriander or parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. You can also add a bit of chili pepper if you enjoy spicy food.

Practical tips:
- You can replace pork with chicken or turkey, depending on your preferences.
- Experiment with various seasonal vegetables; carrots, zucchini, or eggplant can add an interesting texture.
- If you want a spicier dish, add soy sauce or chili sauce during cooking.
- The goulash can be made a few hours in advance and reheated, with the flavor becoming even more intense.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? Yes, fresh vegetables can add a better texture. Make sure to cut them into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- What can I do with leftovers? The goulash keeps well in the fridge and can be eaten the next day or used to make a satay or a wrap.
- Is this recipe healthy? Pork goulash with vegetables is a healthy option, given that it is rich in vegetables and protein. Ginger and garlic are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 450
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 5 g

This pork goulash with wok vegetables and rice is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that combines tradition with modernity. I encourage you to try it and share the joy of savoring a simple yet flavorful dish with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!