Pork Chow Mein is a flavorful and satisfying stir-fry dish that combines tender strips of pork with a medley of crisp vegetables and soft noodles, all tossed in a savory sauce. This classic Chinese-American dish is a favorite for its perfect balance of textures and its deliciously savory flavor profile. The marinated pork is quickly stir-fried to lock in its juices, while the vegetables retain their fresh crunch, making this dish both hearty and refreshing. Pork Chow Mein is quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal that delivers on taste without the need for takeout. Serve it as a main course on its own, or pair it with other Asian-inspired dishes for a complete feast.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces chow mein noodles (or thin egg noodles)
- 1/2 pound pork loin or tenderloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce, divided
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup julienned carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup sliced celery
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Noodles:
- Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Marinate the Pork:
- In a bowl, combine the sliced pork with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Toss to coat evenly and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and chicken broth or water. Set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Pork:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and garlic, stir-frying for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and celery, stir-frying for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked pork to the skillet along with the cooked noodles. Pour the sauce over the top and toss everything together until well coated and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Pork Chow Mein is a delightful dish that’s packed with flavors and textures, making it a favorite for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its combination of savory pork, crisp vegetables, and flavorful noodles is sure to satisfy any craving for classic Chinese takeout at home.
