Craving a flavorful and quick weeknight meal? Look no further than this vibrant stir-fry featuring tender pork and succulent squid. This recipe delivers a delicious explosion of tastes and textures, combining the savory richness of pork with the delicate sweetness of squid, all tossed in a fragrant sauce. It's a perfect dish for those busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of garlic, ginger, and chili offers a balanced punch of flavor that's both exciting and comforting.
This simple yet impressive stir-fry is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. The key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and follow a few simple techniques. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Wok or large frying pan
- Spatula
- Chopping board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Pork
- Squid
- Vegetables (e.g., onions, peppers)
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Cooking oil
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Cornstarch (optional)
- Sugar
- Spices (e.g., pepper)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate
- Chop pork into bite-sized pieces. Clean and cut squid into rings or desired shapes. Chop vegetables.
- Mix pork with soy sauce, a pinch of sugar, and cornstarch for tenderness. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2. Stir-fry Pork and Vegetables
- Heat oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add pork to the wok and stir-fry until browned.
- Add vegetables and stir-fry until slightly softened.
Step 3. Add Squid and Season
- Add squid. Stir-fry for a couple of minutes until the squid turns opaque and tender. Be careful not to overcook.
- Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and pepper to taste.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Stir-fry everything together for about a minute to combine flavors and ensure everything is cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately with rice or noodles.
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use a high heat to ensure quick and even cooking of the squid. Overcooked squid will be tough.
- Don't overcrowd the wok; stir-fry in batches if necessary to prevent steaming.
- Feel free to add other vegetables or protein to customize this dish.
- For a spicier kick, add some chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper.
- Adjust the amount of sauce according to your preference.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pork with another protein?
Yes! Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu would work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What if I don't have all the ingredients listed?
Feel free to omit ingredients or substitute with similar ones. For example, you can use soy sauce instead of fish sauce, or leave out the chilies if you prefer less spice.
3. How do I prevent the squid from becoming tough?
Don't overcook the squid! Add it towards the end of the cooking process and stir-fry until it just turns opaque. Overcooked squid will be rubbery.
This stir-fried pork and squid recipe is a testament to how simple, yet incredibly flavorful, a quick weeknight meal can be. Enjoy the satisfying combination of tender meat, delicate seafood, and vibrant sauce. We hope you savor every bite!