White Pork with Pak Choi

This recipe for White Pork with Pak Choi is a delightful Asian-inspired dish that combines tender strips of boneless pork shoulder with the vibrant flavors of pak choi, garlic, and ginger. The dish is cooked in a hot wok, allowing the ingredients to quickly sear and develop a tantalizing aroma. The addition of chicken stock, sugar, and dry sherry creates a savory sauce that perfectly complements the tender pork and crisp pak choi stalks. This recipe serves four people, making it an ideal choice for a family meal or dinner gathering. With its simple preparation and delicious combination of flavors, White Pork with Pak Choi is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

INGREDIENTS

• 100g/4oz boneless pork shoulder
• 1 tablespoon cornflour
• 450g/1lb pak choi
• 3 tablespoons groundnut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh root ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 50ml/2fl oz chicken stock
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon dry sherry

PREPARATIONS

1. Slice the pork against the grain into thin strips about 5cm/2in x 1cm/1/2in.
2. Combine the cornflour with 1 1/2 tablespoons water to make a paste.
3. Separate the outer fleshy stalks from the centre stalk of the pak choi and discard the centre stalk.
4. Wash the outer stalks and diagonally slice into 8cm/3in pieces.
5. Swirl the oil around in a very hot wok.
6. When the oil begins to smoke, add the pork and stir-fry for about 1 minute until the meat is seared.
7. Add the pak choi, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry until the green leaves are bright and shriveled, stirring constantly.
8. Add the salt, stock, sugar, and sherry.
9. When the liquid begins to boil, cover the wok and steam for 30 seconds or less on high heat until the stalks are tender but still crisp.
10. Remove the meat and vegetables using a slotted spoon and set aside.
11. Stir the cornflour paste into the remaining cooking liquid to make a light sauce.
12. Serve immediately.

YIELD

• Serves 4

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

• The pork should be sliced against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Stir-fry the pork quickly to sear the meat and retain its juiciness.
• Constant stirring is necessary when stir-frying the pak choi to ensure even cooking.
• The cornflour paste is added to thicken the sauce, creating a light and glossy consistency.

TIPS

• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add more salt, sugar, or sherry if desired.
• Serve the dish with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for additional flavors and textures.

In conclusion, White Pork with Pak Choi is a delightful dish that brings together the savory flavors of tender pork, crunchy pak choi, and aromatic spices. The quick stir-frying technique ensures that the ingredients retain their freshness and vibrant colors, resulting in a visually appealing and flavorful meal. The combination of garlic, ginger, and a touch of sherry adds a unique depth to the dish, while the light sauce ties everything together.

This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore Asian cuisine or add variety to their usual menu. With its simple and straightforward preparations, it can be easily recreated in your own kitchen. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with steamed rice or noodles.

To enhance the dish, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients such as sliced bell peppers or mushrooms. These additions can add a pop of color and provide extra depth to the overall taste. Remember to adjust the seasonings to suit your personal preferences and taste buds.

White Pork with Pak Choi is not only a satisfying meal but also a healthy choice. The pak choi, a leafy green vegetable, is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C. Additionally, the lean pork shoulder provides a good source of protein.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for your loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures, along with the vibrant colors, creates a visually stunning and mouthwatering dish. So grab your wok and ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the delightful flavors of White Pork with Pak Choi!