Pork with vegetables

Pork with vegetables – a delicious and aromatic dish inspired by Asian culinary traditions, perfectly blending flavors and textures to offer a memorable culinary experience. This dish is perfect for family dinners or a relaxing evening with friends. Let's explore each step of this captivating recipe together.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 2 hours and 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Required ingredients

- 500 g pork (preferably loin or shoulder)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1/2 onion
- 1/2 cucumber
- 1 bell pepper (or another colorful pepper for added aesthetics)
- 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon flour
- Oil for frying (preferably sesame or sunflower oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hot sauce (optional, according to preference)
- 1/2 clove of garlic (optional, for added flavor)
- 200 ml water

Brief history

Pork and vegetable dishes have been an integral part of Asian cuisine for centuries, due to the delicious combination of proteins, fibers, and essential nutrients. This recipe is inspired by traditional cooking methods, using simple yet flavorful ingredients. Pork is often used for its tender texture and ability to absorb flavors from sauces and spices.

Step by step

Step 1: Marinating the meat

1. Start by slicing the pork into thin strips, about 1 cm wide. This will help the flavors penetrate and ensure even cooking.
2. In a bowl, add the meat strips and pour 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce over them. Make sure each piece of meat is evenly coated. The soy sauce not only adds a salty flavor but also gives the meat a beautiful color.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 2 hours. This step is essential to intensify the flavors and make the meat more tender.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables

1. Meanwhile, wash all the vegetables. Cut the carrot into thin sticks, the onion into fine slices, the cucumber into strips, and the bell pepper into small pieces. The variety of colors will make the dish more appealing.
2. In a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly soft but still retain a crunchy texture. Do not overcook them to avoid losing their fresh taste.

Step 3: Cooking the meat

1. In the same skillet, add the marinated meat strips and fry them over medium heat, stirring constantly to brown evenly. The meat will start to change color and become tender. This step will take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Once the meat is well browned, sprinkle a teaspoon of flour over it and mix well to coat the meat evenly. The flour will help thicken the sauce.
3. Add 200 ml of water to the skillet and let it boil for a few minutes to form a delicious sauce. This will bind all the ingredients together and add a rich flavor.

Step 4: Finalizing the dish

1. After the sauce has started to boil, add the sautéed vegetables, grated ginger, garlic (if you choose to use it), and hot sauce if you want a spicy note. Mix everything well and let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes to harmonize the flavors.
2. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.

Serving

To serve, you can place the pork and vegetable dish over a bed of cooked rice, which will absorb the savory sauce. White rice or basmati rice are excellent options. You can also garnish the plate with a few strips of bell pepper or fresh coriander leaves for a more attractive appearance.

Practical tips

- Choose the meat: Opt for quality pork that is well-marbled for a more tender texture.
- Vegetables: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms, according to your preferences.
- Sauce variations: Instead of soy sauce, you can use teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor.
- Wok cooking: If you have a wok, use it to sauté the ingredients. This will help maintain the crunchy texture of the vegetables.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted with chicken, which will cook similarly. Follow the same instructions but reduce the cooking time to about 5-7 minutes for chicken.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more hot sauce or a few slices of fresh chili during cooking.

3. Is this dish healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy option, rich in protein and vegetables. You can reduce the amount of oil to make the dish more diet-friendly.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of this dish contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the vegetables added. Pork provides essential proteins, while vegetables bring vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Pork with vegetables is a simple, quick, and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion. With a little patience and passion, you can bring Eastern flavors into your kitchen, impressing your family and friends. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal touch on this dish. Enjoy your meal!