This quick and tasty pork and asparagus stir fry is a perfect weeknight meal. With tender pork and crunchy asparagus, it’s full of color and flavor!
I love how easy this dish is to whip up! Just toss everything into the pan, and dinner is ready in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies! 🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: For this stir fry, pork tenderloin is ideal since it’s lean and tender. You could use chicken breast or shrimp if you’re looking for alternatives. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as these meats have different cooking rates!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives a nice crunch. If it’s out of season, snap peas or green beans can work well too, providing a similar texture and color.
Onions: A medium onion adds great flavor. I usually go for yellow or white onions, but red onions are lovely too if you want a sweeter taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove can be a quick substitute.
Soy Sauce: This is key for seasoning and umami. If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a good swap. Tamari or coconut aminos can be gluten-free alternatives.
Hoisin Sauce: While optional, it adds a sweet touch. If you skip it, just use a bit more soy sauce or a dash of sugar or honey to bring in sweetness.
How Do I Get the Pork Just Right in a Stir Fry?
Getting tender, juicy pork is crucial for this dish. Here’s how:
- Slice against the grain: Cutting the pork thinly and against the grain helps it stay tender. Look for the lines in the meat and slice perpendicular to them.
- High heat: A hot skillet or wok cooks the pork quickly, locking in juices. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Rest after cooking: Allow the pork to rest briefly after cooking, so the juices redistribute before mixing it back with the vegetables.
How to Make a Delicious Pork and Asparagus Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) pork tenderloin or pork loin, thinly sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili or bell pepper, sliced (optional, for heat/color)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp water (slurry)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty stir fry will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking, so you can have a delicious meal ready in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by thinly slicing the pork across the grain to keep it tender. Season the slices lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Get the Veggies Ready:
Next, wash and trim the asparagus, cutting it into 2-inch pieces. Slice the onion and chili (if you want some heat). Don’t forget to mince the garlic, as it will add a lovely aroma to your stir fry!
3. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil nice and hot for a good stir fry.
4. Cook the Pork:
Add the pork slices to the hot pan. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the pork from the pan and set it aside.
5. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the garlic, onion, and chili, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and the onion starts to soften.
6. Add the Asparagus:
Now it’s time to add the asparagus pieces. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-4 minutes until the asparagus is tender-crisp and bright green.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked pork to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce (if you’re using it). Mix everything well so that the meat and veggies are nicely coated with the sauce.
8. Thicken the Sauce:
Next, add the cornstarch slurry to the pan. Stir quickly as the sauce thickens in about a minute. This will help create a nice glaze around the pork and vegetables.
9. Final Touches:
Drizzle the sesame oil over your stir-fry, and give it a good toss to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious pork and asparagus stir fry hot over a bed of steamed white rice. Enjoy your quick and nutritious meal!
This stir fry is not only scrumptious but also packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect option for any busy weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! You can substitute asparagus with broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers, depending on your preference or what you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly for different vegetables.
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pork and chop the vegetables ahead of time! Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook the stir fry fresh when you’re ready to eat, as it tastes best when made just before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to loosen it up.
Can I Make It Spicier?
Definitely! If you want more heat, add extra chili slices or a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. For a different kind of spice, you could also include a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce at the end. Adjust to your taste!
