If you love quick and flavorful dinners that pack a punch, you have to try this Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe. It brings together tender ground pork, crisp vegetables, and a savory-sweet sauce that you can whip up in just minutes. This dish is not only a delight for your taste buds but also a celebration of simple ingredients working in perfect harmony to create something truly special for your weeknight table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe calls for a handful of essential ingredients, each contributing their own character—from the juicy, rich pork to the fresh crunch of broccoli and vibrant spinach. The sauce ingredients pull everything together with a wonderful balance of salty, sweet, and aromatic notes.
- Sesame seeds: Toasted for a nutty crunch that adds texture and visual appeal.
- Green onions: Sliced thin for a fresh, mild onion flavor and a bright green pop.
- 1 pound ground pork: The star protein offering juicy, flavorful bites throughout the dish.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely splash of orange color.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Provides crispness and a healthy green boost to every spoonful.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Brings pungency and depth that enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/3 cup soy sauce: Salty umami base for that signature stir fry taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: A gentle warmth and spice that lifts the dish beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons honey: Balances the saltiness with a subtle sweetness.
- 2 cups packed spinach: Adds softness and nutritious greens that wilt perfectly in the skillet.
How to Make Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Stir Fry Sauce
Start by whisking together soy sauce, ground ginger, and honey in a small bowl. This sauce is the magic behind the flavor blend—salty, sweet, and slightly spicy—perfectly complementing the hearty pork and fresh veggies.
Step 2: Browning the Ground Pork
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and crumble the ground pork into the pan. Cook it for about 5 minutes until nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep the dish light and let those porky flavors shine.
Step 3: Cooking the Vegetables and Combining
Lower the heat to medium, then toss in the shredded carrots, broccoli florets, minced garlic, and the stir fry sauce. Stir everything together and cook for about 4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften while soaking up that delicious sauce.
Step 4: Adding the Spinach
Finally, add the packed spinach to the skillet and stir until the leaves wilt down, which will take just 2 to 3 minutes. Once everything is beautifully combined and cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and get ready for serving.
How to Serve Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top for added texture, color, and a burst of fresh flavor. These simple garnishes bring that extra layer of authenticity to your stir fry.
Side Dishes
This dish is fantastic served over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice, which soaks up the sauce perfectly. Alternatively, pairing it with noodles or even cauliflower rice can add exciting variations and keep things interesting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir fry in lettuce cups for a light, low-carb option that’s great for entertaining. Another idea is to spoon it over baked sweet potatoes or inside warm pita bread for a stir-fry-inspired sandwich that’s sure to wow your dinner guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners.
Freezing
Freezing leftovers is a great way to extend the dish’s life. Place cooled stir fry in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method keeps the vegetables from getting too limp and preserves the delicious flavors of the original dish.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey work well as leaner alternatives, though the flavor profile will be a bit milder. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tasty.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe as written isn’t gluten-free due to the soy sauce, but you can easily swap in tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to make it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! This Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe is versatile. Feel free to toss in bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or any veggies you have on hand for added color and nutrition.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a little heat, try adding chopped fresh chili, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of chili garlic sauce to punch up the spice level.
What’s the best rice to serve with this?
Jasmine rice is a classic choice for stir fry due to its fragrant aroma, but white, brown, or even cauliflower rice all make excellent bases depending on your preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe is a true weeknight winner, combining speed, flavor, and wholesome ingredients that’ll have you coming back for seconds. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying, colorful meal that feels homemade and special every time you cook it. You’re going to love how simple it is to bring this dish to your table—give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to dinners!
