Are you looking for a flavorful and savory twist on traditional pork dishes? Look no further than Asia, where pork is a staple ingredient in many cuisines. From sweet and sour to spicy and smoky, Asian cooking techniques bring out the best in this versatile meat. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering Asian pork recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic dishes like Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu) to bold flavors like Thai Spicy Pork Stir-Fry (Pad Kra Pao Moo), these recipes showcase the diversity and richness of Asian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these flavorful and easy-to-make dishes are sure to become new favorites.
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)
A classic Cantonese dish, Char Siu is a sweet and savory glazed pork recipe that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With its caramelized exterior and tender interior, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup Char Siu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1/4 tsp white pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 scallion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Char Siu sauce, soy sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, sugar, five-spice powder, and white pepper.
3. Add pork strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange pork strips in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
6. Garnish with scallion and serve with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Pork Larb
This classic Thai dish is a flavorful and spicy stir-fry made with pork, herbs, chilies, and other aromatics. Serve it as an appetizer or main course for a deliciously authentic Thai experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 Thai bird’s eye chilies, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork, chilies, garlic, and ginger; cook until pork is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Caramelized Pork Bowls
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with this sweet and savory dish. Slow-cooked pork is caramelized to perfection, served over a bed of fluffy rice and topped with crunchy pickled vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Pickled vegetables (cucumber, carrot, daikon), sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine pork, fish sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and cumin.
2. Add water to cover the pork and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
3. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
4. Assemble bowls by placing cooked pork on top of rice and garnishing with pickled vegetables.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Korean Spicy Pork Stir-Fry (Daeji Bulgogi)
This classic Korean dish is a staple of comfort food, with tender pork, crispy vegetables, and a spicy kick. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, Daeji Bulgogi is the perfect meal for a busy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or ribeye, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and water.
2. Add the pork slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Stir-fry the pork for 3-4 minutes, until cooked through.
6. Add the onion and bell pepper to the wok, stirring frequently.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino Pork Adobo
Pork adobo is a staple dish in Filipino cuisine, made with marinated pork cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, and spices. This recipe yields a flavorful and savory result that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 bay leaf
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pork pieces, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, black pepper, and bay leaf. Mix well to coat.
2. Let the mixture marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the pork until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice or enjoy as is.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Japanese Pork Tonkatsu
Tonkatsu is a popular Japanese dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. This pork cutlet recipe yields a crispy, juicy, and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the pork cutlets into desired shapes.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each pork cutlet in the beaten egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the coated pork cutlets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice and your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per serving
Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with this classic Chinese dish! Crispy fried pork pieces are coated in a sticky sweet and sour sauce, served hot over steamed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or butt, cut into small cubes
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 1 tablespoon corn syrup
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together pork cubes and cornstarch.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or deep fryer to 350°F. Fry pork pieces until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
3. In the same wok, add garlic, sweet and sour sauce, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, and corn syrup. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
4. Add fried pork back into the sauce and toss until coated.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve hot over steamed vegetables of your choice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Basil Pork Stir-Fry (Pad Kra Pao Moo)
A classic Thai dish that combines the bold flavors of chilies, garlic, and basil with tender pork and crunchy vegetables. This recipe is a staple in Thai cuisine and is quick to make for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or boneless pork chops, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, snow peas)
– 4-6 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked jasmine rice or noodles for serving
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.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, chilies, garlic, fish sauce, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over cooked jasmine rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Grilled Pork Chops (Thit Heo Nuong)
A classic Vietnamese dish, Thit Heo Nuong is a flavorful and aromatic grilled pork chop recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, lime juice, and spices, these pork chops are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/2 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the pork chops to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush with vegetable oil during the last minute of grilling.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Pork Belly Kimchi Stew (Kimchi Jjigae)
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of pork belly and kimchi, a classic Korean staple. With its bold and spicy taste, it’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cups kimchi, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup pork broth or water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork belly and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add garlic, onion, kimchi, pork broth, soy sauce, and Gochujang to the pot. Bring to a boil.
4. Return pork belly to the pot and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced scallions.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Indonesian Pork Satay with Peanut Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Indonesia with this classic satay recipe, served with a creamy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 500g pork shoulder or butt, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Peanut sauce ingredients (see below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine pork, coconut milk, garlic, ginger, coriander powder, cumin powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Thread the pork mixture onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space at the top.
4. Grill or broil for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with peanut sauce (see below).
Peanut Sauce Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Twice-Cooked Pork
This traditional Chinese dish is a masterclass in texture and flavor. By braising the pork belly in soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and spices, then pan-frying it to crispy perfection, you’ll create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and sugar. Add the pork belly and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
3. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Pan-fry the pork until browned and crispy, about 5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and steamed bok choy if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (marinating) + 10-12 minutes (pan-frying)
Thai Pork Noodle Soup (Khao Soi)
This popular Thai dish is a flavorful and comforting soup made with tender pork, soft noodles, and a rich curry-based broth. Khao Soi is a beloved street food in Thailand that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups chicken or pork broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the pork strips in boiling water or steam them until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Slice into thin strips.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add curry paste and stir-fry for another minute.
4. Pour in broth, coconut milk, and cooked pork. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with cooked noodles. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Japanese Pork Gyoza Dumplings
Experience the authentic flavors of Japan with these pan-seared pork gyoza dumplings, filled with a savory blend of ground pork and aromatics. This recipe yields a deliciously crispy bottom and tender wrapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, cabbage, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork 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 dumpling.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or wok with 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the gyoza and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (includes pan-frying time).
Filipino Pork Sinigang (Sour Soup)
Sinigang is a popular Filipino dish that combines the rich flavors of pork, vegetables, and tamarind broth. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of savory and sour notes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tamarind broth (or substitute with a mixture of water and calamansi juice)
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and tomatoes; sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the tamarind broth and fish sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Malaysian Pork Rendang
Rendang is a popular Malaysian dish made with slow-cooked meat in coconut milk and spices, often served during special occasions. This pork rendang recipe is a flavorful twist on the classic beef version, perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 500g pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 200ml coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pork pieces and stir to coat with spice mixture. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Pour in coconut milk and add salt. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let rendang cook for 2-3 hours, or until meat is tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve with steamed rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Chinese Pork and Shrimp Wontons
A classic Chinese dish, these wontons are filled with a savory mixture of pork, shrimp, and vegetables, wrapped in thin sheets of dough, and served in a light broth. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, cooked shrimp, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling 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.
4. Press the edges together to seal the wonton, making sure they are well-closed.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling mixture.
Cooking Time:
– Boil the wontons in a large pot of water for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
– Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Vietnamese Pork Banh Mi Sandwich
A fusion of French baguette and Vietnamese flavors, this sandwich is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. This recipe makes 4-6 sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cooked and shredded
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 4-6 banh mi baguettes
– Pickled carrots and daikon (store-bought or homemade)
– Cilantro leaves, chopped
– Mayonnaise or sriracha mayonnaise
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add the cooked pork to the marinade and mix well.
3. Slice the baguettes in half lengthwise.
4. Spread a layer of mayonnaise or sriracha mayonnaise on each baguette half.
5. Add a few slices of pickled carrots and daikon, followed by a spoonful of marinated pork.
6. Top with chopped cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 mouthwatering Asian pork recipes! From sweet and sour to spicy and savory, this collection offers a diverse array of flavors and cooking techniques. Discover classic dishes like Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork) and Japanese Pork Tonkatsu, as well as modern twists on traditional favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and bold, there’s something for everyone in this deliciously savory roundup.
