Cantonese Asparagus And Pork Stir Fry Recipe

So, I’ve discovered this delightful combo of pork and asparagus stir-fry that is not only a feast for your taste buds but also feels like a warm hug after a long day. Let’s dive into this quick and flavorful culinary adventure!

I love creating a nutritious and savory Cantonese Asparagus and Pork Stir Fry, where tender slices of pork tenderloin soak up delicious flavors from soy and oyster sauce. The fresh asparagus, packed with vitamins, adds a vibrant crunch, while garlic and ginger provide a fragrant, aromatic base.

The addition of Shaoxing wine and a dash of sesame oil truly elevate the rich taste, making it a delightful dish perfect for any occasion.

Cantonese Asparagus And Pork Stir Fry Recipe Ingredients

• Pork Tenderloin: Lean protein source; enhances umami in the dish.
• Asparagus: High in fiber and vitamins; adds a fresh crunch.
• Soy Sauce: Rich in umami; provides savory depth and saltiness.
• Oyster Sauce: Sweet and savory; adds richness and complexity.
• Garlic: Aromatic and flavorful; boosts savory notes.
• Ginger: Zesty and warming; aids digestion and enhances flavor.
• Shaoxing Wine: Adds subtle sweetness; enhances the overall aroma.
• White Pepper: Mildly spicy; offers a gentle heat to the dish.
• Sesame Oil: Nutty flavor; adds depth and enhances aroma.

Cantonese Asparagus And Pork Stir Fry Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 250 grams of pork tenderloin, thinly sliced
• 300 grams of fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon of sesame oil

How to Make this Cantonese Asparagus And Pork Stir Fry Recipe

1. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and Shaoxing wine; mix until smooth. Add the pork slices, tossing to coat and set aside to marinate for 10 minutes.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. Remove the asparagus and set aside.

3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring quickly to avoid burning, about 30 seconds.

4. Increase the heat to high, then add the marinated pork to the wok. Stir-fry until the pork is just cooked through and no longer pink, about 4-5 minutes.

5. Return the asparagus to the wok, combining it with the pork. Stir to mix well.

6. Sprinkle the white pepper and add salt to taste, continuing to stir-fry for another minute to combine the flavors.

7. Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry, giving it a quick toss to evenly distribute the oil and enhance the fragrance.

8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or soy sauce if desired.

9. Transfer the stir-fry to a serving plate.

10. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy this fragrant and savory dish.

Cantonese Asparagus And Pork Stir Fry Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Small bowl
2. Large wok or skillet
3. Mixing spoon
4. Measuring spoons
5. Knife
6. Cutting board
7. Grater or microplane (for ginger)
8. Serving plate

FAQ

• What kind of pork is best for this recipe? Thinly sliced pork tenderloin is recommended for its tenderness and quick cooking ability.
• Can I substitute the Shaoxing wine? Yes, dry sherry is a good substitute if you can’t find Shaoxing wine.
• Is it necessary to use cornstarch? Cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce and makes the pork tender and juicy, so it is recommended.
• What can I use instead of oyster sauce? You can use hoisin sauce, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.
• How do I prepare the asparagus? Trim the woody ends and cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces for even cooking.
• Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, substitute the pork with tofu or mushrooms, and use mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce.
• How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cantonese Asparagus And Pork Stir Fry Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Pork tenderloin: Substitute with chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Asparagus: Substitute with green beans or broccoli for a different vegetable choice.
• Soy sauce: Substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option or fish sauce for a different flavor.
• Shaoxing wine: Substitute with rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.
• Sesame oil: Substitute with toasted walnut oil or omit if unavailable.

Pro Tips

1. Marinate Longer for More Flavor If you have the time, allow the pork to marinate for at least 30 minutes instead of 10. This will deepen the flavor and make the pork more tender.

2. Blanch the Asparagus For extra vibrant green asparagus, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately plunge them into ice water before stir-frying. This helps retain their color and crunch.

3. Use a Hot Wok Ensure your wok is very hot before adding the pork. A hot wok will give the pork a nice sear, enhancing the flavor and keeping it juicy.

4. Thinly Slice Pork for Quick Cooking Make sure the pork is sliced against the grain and very thinly. This allows it to cook quickly and remain tender.

5. Finish with Fresh Lime Add a splash of fresh lime juice just before serving to brighten the dish and balance the savory flavors with a hint of acidity.