Pork Stir Fry Noodles is a tasty dish that mixes tender pork, fresh veggies, and flavorful noodles all in one pan. It’s quick to throw together, making it perfect for busy nights!
I love how colorful this dish is, with all the bright veggies shining through. Plus, the sauce makes everything extra yummy! It’s a big hit at my dinner table – and only takes 30 minutes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Fresh egg noodles or chow mein noodles are ideal, as they cook quickly and have great texture. If you can’t find them, spaghetti or rice noodles work well too. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Ground Pork: This is the main protein. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean turkey or chicken can be good substitutes. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Vegetables: The carrot, red cabbage, and broccoli add both color and nutrition. Feel free to swap in whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini are great choices too!
Oils: Vegetable or sesame oil gives flavor. sesame oil is a wonderful option if you want a nutty undertone. If you don’t have oil on hand, you can use flavored cooking sprays.
Sauces: Soy sauce is essential for flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, coconut aminos or tamari work well. Hoisin sauce adds sweetness too, but can be skipped if you’re watching sugar.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Noodles?
Cooking the noodles properly is crucial for a great stir fry. Overcooked noodles get mushy, so follow these tips:
- Check the package for cooking time and set a timer.
- Use a large pot of boiling water to cook noodles to prevent sticking.
- Rinse them in cold water after draining to stop the cooking process.
These steps keep your noodles firm, ready to soak up all the delicious flavors from the sauces!
What’s the Best Way to Stir-Fry Without Overcooking the Veggies?
Keeping veggies crisp in a stir fry is all about the heat and timing. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your pan is hot before adding oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Stir frequently and keep the vegetables moving for even cooking.
- Cook only until they are bright and slightly tender. They should still have a crunch!
This technique will keep your stir-fried vegetables vibrant and crunchy!
Pork Stir Fry Noodles Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) fresh egg noodles or chow mein noodles
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup broccoli florets or Chinese broccoli leaves
- 3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp chili garlic sauce (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious meal ready in about 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the noodles according to the package directions until they are just tender. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water to halt the cooking process. Set them aside for later.
2. Brown the Pork:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork into the pan and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the pork is browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the pork from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Throw in the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until you smell the wonderful aroma.
4. Add Vegetables:
Now, add the julienned carrots, red cabbage, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, staying attentive until the veggies start to soften but still hold a little crunch.
5. Combine Pork and Noodles:
Return the cooked pork to the pan, mixing it well with the vegetables you’ve cooked. Next, toss in the prepared noodles.
6. Flavor It Up:
Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), and chili garlic sauce over everything. Using tongs or a spatula, toss everything together so the noodles are coated evenly. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to heat through, and taste to adjust salt and pepper as needed.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pan from heat and garnish your dish with the green parts of the green onions, plus a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nice finishing touch. Serve your stir fry hot, with optional chili sauce on the side for those who like a bit of extra heat!
Enjoy your colorful, flavorful Pork Stir Fry Noodles!
Can I Use Different Meats for This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or beef can be great substitutes for the pork. For a vegetarian option, try using tofu or tempeh for a protein-packed dish!
What Vegetables Can I Add or Substitute?
You can use a variety of vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand! Bell peppers, snap peas, zucchini, or carrots would all be delicious alternatives. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the veggies you choose!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave for a quick meal!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients and cook everything in advance. Simply store in the fridge and reheat before serving. Note that the noodles may absorb some sauce, so you might want to add a splash of soy sauce or water when reheating for moisture.
