There’s something truly special about the vibrant flavors of Sichuan cuisine that dances on your palate, and today, I’m thrilled to share my take on an authentic dish that encapsulates that magic—Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce, or Yu Xiang Rou Si. Imagine the satisfying aroma of garlic sizzling in hot oil, mingling with tender slices of pork and colorful vegetables, enveloped in a rich sauce that perfectly balances sweetness, heat, and umami.
This dish transports me back to family gatherings, where the tantalizing scent would fill the kitchen, bringing everyone together around a steaming bowl of rice. The best part? You can whip this up in the comfort of your home with just a few ingredients, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that feels both special and comforting. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, this recipe is a sure way to impress your family and friends while breaking free from the monotony of fast food. Let’s dive into creating a meal that will bring the heart of Sichuan right to your table!
Why is Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce irresistible?
Aromatic, flavor-packed sauce: This dish boasts a rich garlic sauce that expertly balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes, creating a taste sensation!
Easy prep: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a homemade meal.
Colorful veggies: Not only does it taste amazing, but the vibrant mix of veggies adds beauty and nutrition, making each bite exciting.
Family-friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds!
Versatile alternative: Swap the pork for chicken or tofu to suit dietary preferences while keeping all the delicious flavors intact.
With so many reasons to love it, you’ll soon see why this is your new favorite go-to meal!
Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce Ingredients
Dive into the world of flavors with authentic Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce!
For the Pork
- Pork Loin (8 oz) – The main protein that ensures tenderness; for a leaner option, consider substituting with pork tenderloin.
- Shaoxing Wine (2 tablespoons) – Enhances flavor through marination and sauce; dry sherry can work as a great substitute.
- Cornstarch (2 teaspoons) – Vital for marinating pork and thickening sauce; this ingredient is essential for texture.
For the Sauce
- Peanut Oil (3 tablespoons) – Ideal for sautéing with a subtle nuttiness; vegetable oil can be used if preferred.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) & White Pepper (1/8 teaspoon) – Key seasoning agents; adjust according to your taste.
- Rice Vinegar (3 tablespoons) – Provides necessary acidity to balance flavors; white vinegar serves as a substitute if needed.
- Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Adds rich umami depth; tamari is a suitable option for gluten-free diets.
- Sugar (3 tablespoons) – Perfectly balances the sauce’s flavors; feel free to adjust based on your preferences.
- Doubanjiang (1 tablespoon) – Crucial for that authentic flavor; if missing, another chili paste will suffice, but results may vary.
For the Aromatics & Veggies
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Central to the flavor profile, infusing each bite with its aroma.
- Ginger (2 teaspoons, minced) – Enhances the dish’s fragrance and adds depth to the flavor.
- Dried Wood Ear Mushrooms – Adds a unique texture; can omit if unavailable, but it’s recommended for authenticity.
- Carrot (1 medium, julienned) – Introduces sweetness and a pop of color; swap for bell pepper or other veggies if desired.
- Anaheim Pepper or Long Red Pepper (1, julienned) – Provides mild heat; feel free to choose any preferred pepper for spice.
How to Make Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce
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Soak mushrooms: Begin by soaking the dried wood ear mushrooms in warm water for 20-30 minutes until they become tender. Once softened, slice them into thin strips for added texture.
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Marinate pork: Take your pork loin and slice it thinly against the grain. In a bowl, combine the pork, Shaoxing wine, 1 tablespoon of peanut oil, salt, white pepper, and cornstarch. Allow it to marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavor.
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Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and a splash of water. This will be the delicious sauce that brings your dish together.
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Cook the pork: Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated pork to the skillet and stir-fry until it turns golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Then, transfer the cooked pork to a plate.
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Stir-fry aromatics: With the skillet still hot, add minced garlic, ginger, and doubanjiang. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until the mixture becomes aromatic and fragrant.
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Add veggies: Toss in the julienned carrots, soaked wood ear mushrooms, and any other vegetables you have on hand, like bamboo shoots. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes or until the carrots start to wilt but still retain a bit of crunch.
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Combine and thicken: Return the cooked pork to the skillet, and add the julienned peppers. Pour in the sauce mixture and stir everything together until the sauce thickens, which should take about 30 seconds.
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Serve hot: Finally, serve your Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce hot over a bed of steamed rice or fresh noodles. Enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Optional: Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds for an added touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce Variations
Feel free to explore and make this dish your own with these delightful options!
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Chicken Substitute: Use chicken breast instead of pork for a leaner alternative while maintaining the dish’s flavorful essence.
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Tofu Twist: Swap out the pork for firm tofu to create a hearty vegetarian dish that soaks up all the savory flavors.
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Veggie Medley: Toss in seasonal vegetables like snow peas or bell peppers for added color and texture; they will bring more crunch to each bite.
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Add Heat: Increase spice levels by adding fresh chili slices or a drizzle of sriracha for those who love a fiery kick in their meal.
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Flavor Boost: Mix in a splash of sesame oil while stir-frying to enhance the aroma and add a nutty depth to your garlic sauce.
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Garlic Lovers Delight: Double the minced garlic for a more pronounced flavor punch that garlic enthusiasts will adore.
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Crispy Variation: For crunch, top the finished dish with crunchy fried onions or peanuts, adding a delightful texture contrast.
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Sweet Variation: Add a spoonful of pineapple chunks to the stir-fry for a sweet and tangy twist that will surprise your taste buds!
What to Serve with Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce?
To create a delightful dining experience that complements this savory dish, consider these mouthwatering pairings.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant grains soak up the rich garlic sauce, making each bite a delicious experience.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This vibrant green vegetable adds a crisp texture and a subtle earthy flavor that balances the richness of the pork.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, crunchy salad drizzled with sesame oil and rice vinegar offers a cool contrast to the heat of the dish.
- Egg Fried Rice: Lightly fried eggs mixed with rice and vegetables harmonize well, making for a hearty side that enhances the meal.
- Hot and Sour Soup: With its bold flavors and spicy notes, this comforting soup complements the main dish and creates a fulfilling dinner experience.
- Chinese Tea: A warm cup of oolong or jasmine tea cleanses the palate and adds a soothing element to your dinner table.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat combines fragrant sticky rice with coconut milk and ripe mango, providing a luscious finale to your meal.
- Sesame Noodles: Tossed with a sesame dressing, these noodles offer a delightful chewiness that perfectly pairs with the tender pork.
Expert Tips for Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce
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Prep Everything First: Gather and slice all ingredients before cooking; the cooking process is quick, and you won’t want to scramble while the heat is on.
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Slice Against the Grain: Ensure your pork is tender by slicing it against the grain; this helps maintain a juicy texture for your Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce.
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Marinate for Flavor: Allow the pork to marinate for at least 15 minutes; marinating enhances the flavors and improves the overall dish.
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Control the Heat: Use high heat during cooking; this allows for a good sear on the pork, which adds depth of flavor to the dish.
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Don’t Overcook Veggies: Stir-fry vegetables until just tender; retain some crunch to enhance the dish’s texture and visual appeal.
Make Ahead Options
These Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce are a fantastic option for meal prep lovers! You can marinate the sliced pork and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to enhance its flavor. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce ingredients and keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this way, when you’re ready to cook, all you need to do is stir-fry the pork and vegetables. To maintain quality, keep the marinated pork covered, and ensure you’re using fresh vegetables. When ready to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain texture, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce and prevent drying out.
Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of pork is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pork loin is recommended for its tenderness, but you can also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Just ensure you slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
How do I select ripe vegetables for this dish?
For a vibrant and flavorful Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce, choose fresh, colorful vegetables. Look for firm carrots without dark spots, and make sure any peppers you select are bright in color with a slight sheen. Freshness enhances both taste and presentation!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat to help maintain the pork’s tenderness and prevent it from becoming dry.
Can I freeze Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce?
Yes! To freeze, place the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
What if I don’t have doubanjiang?
If you’re out of doubanjiang, you can use another form of chili paste, but be aware that the flavor may differ slightly. Alternatively, for a milder dish, add some crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Adjust the quantity to suit your heat preference!
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes! This recipe contains soy sauce and certain spices; please ensure you’re aware of any soy allergies. For a gluten-free option, swap regular soy sauce with tamari, and always double-check any ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Savor Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce: A Sichuan Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak dried wood ear mushrooms in warm water for 20-30 minutes until tender, then slice into thin strips.
- Slice pork loin thinly against the grain, then marinate with Shaoxing wine, 1 tablespoon peanut oil, salt, white pepper, and cornstarch for about 15 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and a splash of water for the sauce.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the marinated pork and stir-fry until golden brown for about 3-4 minutes; transfer to a plate.
- Add minced garlic, ginger, and doubanjiang to the skillet and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Add julienned carrots, soaked wood ear mushrooms, and other vegetables; stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the carrots start to wilt.
- Return the cooked pork to the skillet, add julienned peppers, pour in the sauce, and stir until the sauce thickens, about 30 seconds.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or fresh noodles.