This Pork and Asparagus Stir Fry is quick and colorful! With tender pork and crunchy asparagus, it’s a tasty combo that feels like a treat. Plus, it cooks up in no time!
I love how easy it is to whip this up after a long day. Just toss everything in the pan and watch it sizzle. It’s perfect over rice and makes dinner feel special effortlessly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: Pork tenderloin is lean and cooks quickly, making it ideal for stir-fries. If you want a richer flavor, try pork shoulder instead. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken breast or tofu can serve as good substitutes.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key for crunch and flavor. If it’s out of season or too pricey, green beans or snap peas can provide a similar bite and taste. Frozen asparagus can also work in a pinch.
Sauces: Soy sauce is a must for umami flavor, while oyster sauce adds richness. If you need a vegetarian option, swap oyster sauce with mushroom sauce. Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil will work for frying, but I love using canola oil. For a hint of flavor, sesame oil can be used for cooking, but it’s often better added at the end to preserve its taste.
How Do I Get the Pork Tender and Flavorful?
Tenderizing pork is crucial for a great stir-fry. Start by tossing the sliced pork with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This mixture helps to coat the meat and keeps it juicy as it cooks. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb these flavors.
- Heat your skillet or wok over medium-high heat before adding oil.
- Add the pork in a single layer to achieve better browning. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
- Cook until browned and just cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Overcooking can make it tough.
What’s the Best Way to Blanch Asparagus?
Blanching keeps asparagus vibrant and crisp. Simply bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the asparagus for 1-2 minutes. This quick cooking makes them tender without losing their bright color. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking.
- Prepare an ice bath in a bowl with cold water and ice before cooking.
- Once blanched, drain and plunge them into the ice bath for a few minutes.
- This also makes them easier to handle when adding to the stir-fry!
How to Make Pork and Asparagus Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) pork tenderloin or pork shoulder, thinly sliced
- 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pork and Asparagus Stir Fry takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal that you can whip up in just 25 minutes total. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
In a bowl, toss the sliced pork with cornstarch, adding a pinch of salt and pepper. This will help tenderize the pork and create a nice coating. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Blanch the Asparagus:
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the asparagus pieces. Blanch them for 1-2 minutes until they are bright green but still crisp. Once done, drain and set aside in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This keeps them fresh and crunchy!
3. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and either water or chicken broth. This sauce will add great flavor to your stir fry. Set it aside for now.
4. Heat Up the Skillet:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and sliced onion. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until they’ve softened and are fragrant.
5. Cook the Pork:
Add the marinated pork to the pan. Stir-fry it for about 4-5 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure to keep everything moving in the pan for even cooking!
6. Add the Veggies:
If you’re using red bell pepper, add it to the skillet now along with the blanched asparagus. Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes until the veggies are heated and slightly tender.
7. Combine the Sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture over the stir-fry. Toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated and the sauce has thickened slightly, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
8. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste your stir-fry and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot over a bed of steamed white rice, and enjoy your tasty and colorful Pork and Asparagus Stir Fry!
Can I Use Frozen Pork for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator or using the cold water method before slicing. This ensures even cooking and better absorption of flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or broccoli make excellent substitutes and provide a nice crunch. You can also use snap peas or bell peppers for added color and flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist.
Can I Use Different Sauces?
Absolutely! If you don’t have oyster sauce, try using hoisin sauce or a bit more soy sauce mixed with some sugar for sweetness. Experimenting with different sauces can give you a unique flavor every time!
