When it comes to Chinese cuisine, pork is a staple ingredient that’s hard to beat. With its tender texture and rich flavor, pork pairs perfectly with a variety of ingredients and cooking methods. From spicy stir-fries to sweet braises, we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering Chinese pork recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes will guide you through the process of preparing delicious and authentic Chinese dishes.
In this article, we’ll explore a range of flavors and techniques, from classic Cantonese dishes like Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork) and Steamed Pork Buns (Baozi), to Sichuan-inspired spicy stir-fries like Mapo Tofu with Minced Pork. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and sour or savory and umami, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Sweet and Sour Pork
This classic Chinese dish is a staple for any occasion, with its perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. Our recipe uses tender pork, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy sauce to create a mouthwatering delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or boneless pork chops, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate pork pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove vegetables from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add pork pieces and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Mix cornstarch with a little water to form a paste, then add to the pan and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Add cooked vegetables back into the pan, stirring in the sweet and sour sauce (made by combining equal parts soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar).
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)
Char Siu, also known as Chinese BBQ pork, is a beloved dish in Cantonese cuisine. This recipe yields tender, caramelized pork with a sweet and savory glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt
– 1/4 cup Char Siu sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Char Siu sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Score the fat layer on the pork shoulder in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the Char Siu glaze all over the pork, making sure to get some into the scored lines.
5. Place the pork on a rack set over a roasting pan or baking sheet.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes for a 1-pound pork shoulder.
Twice-Cooked Pork
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of Sichuan cuisine, where tender pork belly is braised to perfection and then stir-fried with aromatics and spices. The result is a rich, savory, and utterly addictive flavor profile that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork belly, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and salt. Cover and simmer for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
3. Remove the pork from the braising liquid and let it cool to room temperature.
4. Cut the pork into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry in a wok or large skillet with oil, garlic, onion, and Sichuan peppercorns for 5-7 minutes, or until caramelized.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours, including braising time.
Pork Dumplings (Jiaozi)
These traditional Chinese dumplings are a staple in many Asian cultures. With this simple recipe, you can create tender and flavorful pork-filled dumplings to enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground pork
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon sesame oil
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon finely chopped scallions
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
2. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small egg.
3. Roll out each ball of dough into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
4. Place a tablespoon of pork filling in the center of the dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Cook dumplings by steaming for 10-12 minutes or pan-frying with oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (steaming) or 3-5 minutes per side (pan-frying)
Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of many regional cuisines, and for good reason – the tender, fall-apart pork belly is simply irresistible. This recipe yields a rich, flavorful braise that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick.
3. Add the pork belly and make sure it’s fully submerged in the braising liquid.
4. Cover the pot and braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Remove the pot from the oven and add chicken broth to deglaze the pan.
6. Simmer the braise over low heat for an additional 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (plus 30 minutes simmering)
Pork and Chive Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines the richness of pork with the pungency of chives, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped chives
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and chives to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) and stir to combine.
5. Return the pork to the pan and stir-fry until coated with the sauce, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mapo Tofu with Minced Pork
Mapo tofu is a classic Szechuan dish that combines the creaminess of tofu with the spiciness of Szechuan peppercorns. This recipe adds a savory twist by incorporating minced pork, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup minced pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced pork and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the garlic, ginger paste, soy sauce, and cornstarch mixture. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the tofu cubes and stir-fry until they are coated with the sauce.
5. Add the toasted Szechuan peppercorns and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and delicious! This recipe combines savory pork, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup diced pork (cooked and seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked pork; stir-fry until combined.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Pork and Shrimp Wontons
Experience the harmonious blend of pork, shrimp, and wonton wrappers in this easy-to-make recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these bite-sized morsels will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup cooked and chilled shrimp, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, shrimp, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork-shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the wonton.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook wontons by boiling them in salted water for 3-5 minutes or pan-frying with a small amount of oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes
Steamed Pork Buns (Baozi)
Steaming pork buns is a traditional Chinese cooking method that yields tender, fluffy buns filled with savory pork and spices. This recipe combines the classic flavors of Chinese cuisine with ease of preparation, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup ground pork
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 scallion, finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and yeast. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces and shape each into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball into a disk using a rolling pin or your hands.
5. Place a tablespoon of ground pork in the center of each disk, leaving a small border around the filling.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a bun shape and press edges together.
7. Steam the buns for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pork and Eggplant Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the tender sweetness of pork with the rich flavor of eggplant, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal for a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the eggplant and garlic to the pan; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Return the pork to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Congee (Rice Porridge)
Pork congee, also known as rice porridge, is a comforting Chinese soup-like dish that warms the soul. This simple recipe combines pork, rice, and aromatics to create a nourishing and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of uncooked white rice
– 4 cups of water
– 2 lbs of pork bones (you can use leftover roasted pork or pork shoulder)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pot, combine the rice, pork bones, garlic, and onion. Pour in the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the rice is fully cooked and the broth has thickened slightly.
4. Remove the pork bones and discard (or save for another use).
5. Stir in soy sauce to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Pork and Cabbage Dumplings
Pork and Cabbage Dumplings: A Hearty and Flavorful Chinese-Inspired Delight
These tender dumplings are packed with a savory mixture of ground pork, shredded cabbage, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper. Mix well until just combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 5-7 minutes or pan-fry until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork with Garlic Sauce
A classic combination that never goes out of style, this pork dish is elevated by a rich and savory garlic sauce. Serve with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger. Pour over garlic in the skillet, stirring to combine.
6. Simmer garlic sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
7. Serve pork chops with garlic sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking time in oven)
Pork and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This pork and mushroom stir-fry is a great option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. In the same pan, add remaining oil and sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cooked pork back into the pan with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this Asian-inspired dish as tender pork ribs are smothered in a rich black bean sauce. A perfect blend of sweet, sour, and umami flavors will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs
– 1/4 cup black bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together black bean paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
3. Remove membrane from pork ribs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear ribs for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven.
5. Baste ribs with black bean sauce every 10-15 minutes for 30-40 minutes or until meat is tender.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with garlic and ginger. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Pork and Bamboo Shoot Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese stir-fry combines tender pork, crisp bamboo shoots, and savory soy sauce for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups bamboo shoots, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the wok.
3. In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the bamboo shoots and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return the pork to the wok and stir-fry until everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Taro Stew
This hearty stew combines tender pork with sweet taro and aromatic spices, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium taro roots, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups pork broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the taro and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of China with these 18 mouthwatering pork recipes! From sweet and sour to spicy and savory, there’s something for every taste bud. Explore classic dishes like Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork) and Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou), as well as comforting favorites like Steamed Pork Buns (Baozi) and Pork Fried Rice. Get adventurous with Mapo Tofu with Minced Pork, Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce, and Pork and Bamboo Shoot Stir-Fry. These recipes will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of China!
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