Get ready to take your taste buds on a culinary journey through China with these 20 flavorful ground pork delicacies! Ground pork, also known as mince or finely chopped pork, is a staple ingredient in many Chinese dishes. It’s versatile, easy to cook with, and packed with flavor. In this article, we’ll explore the rich world of Chinese cuisine by sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of ground pork.
From classic stir-fries to comforting noodle dishes, and from dumplings to wontons, these recipes will satisfy your cravings for bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this collection has something for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and experience the rich culinary heritage of China!
Mapo Tofu with Ground Pork
Mapo tofu, a classic Sichuan dish, combines the creamy texture of silken tofu with the spicy kick of chili peppers and savory ground pork. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional Chinese dish, perfect for those who crave bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and crushed
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 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 ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the tofu, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch mixture. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Pork and Cabbage Dumplings
These tender dumplings are a staple of Chinese cuisine, filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, shredded cabbage, and aromatic spices. Serve them steamed or pan-fried for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water for sealing dumplings
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dampen the edges of the wrapper with water.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling, making sure they are tightly closed.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Steam dumplings for 10-12 minutes or pan-fry them in hot oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (steaming) or 3-5 minutes per batch (pan-frying)
Ground Pork Stir-Fry with Green Beans
This recipe combines the savory flavor of ground pork with the crunch of green beans, all cooked to perfection in a wok or large skillet. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground pork and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and green beans to the wok. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the green beans are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Ground Pork Noodles
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with the comfort of noodles and ground pork, creating a spicy and satisfying dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 8 oz noodles (such as lo mein or rice noodles)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic, ginger paste, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and stir-fry everything together for about 30 seconds.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Pork and Chive Wontons
A classic Cantonese dish, these wontons are filled with a savory mixture of pork and chives, then steamed to perfection. Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice for a delicious and authentic Chinese meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 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, chopped scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until just combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean 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.
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 wonton.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook wontons for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve wontons hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Ginger Ground Pork Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful twist on traditional lettuce wraps, these Garlic Ginger Ground Pork Lettuce Wraps combine the savory taste of ground pork with the freshness of lettuce and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves ( Romaine or Butter lettuce work well)
– Optional: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by spooning ground pork mixture onto lettuce leaves and garnishing with optional green onions and sesame seeds.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Pork and Eggplant Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish combines the savory flavors of ground pork with the meaty texture of eggplant, all wrapped up in a flavorful stir-fry. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground pork and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sliced eggplant to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Return the cooked ground pork to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Pork and Shrimp Shumai
Shumai is a popular Chinese dim sum dish that combines the flavors of pork, shrimp, and vegetables wrapped in a delicate dough wrapper. This recipe yields a batch of succulent and savory shumai that are perfect for snacking or serving at a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped shrimp
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 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, chopped shrimp, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
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. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the shumai.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook shumai in boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or steam them for 8-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Pork and Zucchini Noodle Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with ground pork, zucchini noodles, and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. In a separate pan, cook the zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re slightly tender.
4. Add the cooked zucchini noodles to the skillet with the ground pork.
5. Stir in soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Pork and Mushroom Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe combines savory pork, earthy mushrooms, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup diced cooked pork (such as leftover roast or stir-fry)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Push the mushroom mixture to one side; add cooked pork and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Mix in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Stir in cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula or spoon.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the rice is well coated and heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ground Pork and Tofu Clay Pot
This hearty clay pot dish combines the richness of ground pork with the creaminess of tofu, all infused with aromatic soy sauce and savory spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add tofu, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in onion and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Transfer mixture to a clay pot or oven-safe dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork and Scallion Pancakes
These Asian-inspired pancakes are a delicious twist on traditional Chinese recipes. With a crispy exterior and fluffy interior, they’re perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 scallions (green onions), thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, scallions, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until just combined.
2. Add cornstarch and mix until well incorporated.
3. Divide mixture into 8-10 portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ground Pork and Peanut Sauce Noodles
A flavorful and savory stir-fry dish that combines the richness of ground pork with the creamy goodness of peanut sauce, served over a bed of noodles. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles work well)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pork mixture. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, water, and sesame oil.
5. Add the peanut sauce mixture to the ground pork mixture. Stir-fry until well combined.
6. Serve the ground pork mixture over cooked noodles. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
7. Cook time: 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Pork and Cabbage Spring Rolls
A classic Chinese snack, these spring rolls are a perfect blend of savory pork, crunchy cabbage, and delicate wrappers. Serve them as an appetizer or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, shredded cabbage, chopped scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry spring rolls until golden brown, turning occasionally. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, including wrapping and frying.
Ground Pork and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the savory taste of ground pork with the tender crunch of bok choy. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an accompaniment to your favorite rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cups bok choy, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the bok choy and soy sauce; stir-fry until the greens are tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork and Water Chestnut Meatballs
Pork and Water Chestnut Meatballs: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
These bite-sized meatballs are packed with flavor and texture, thanks to the addition of crunchy water chestnuts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, cilantro, ginger, water chestnuts, garlic, and egg. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ground Pork and Kimchi Fried Rice
This Korean-inspired dish combines the savory flavors of ground pork with the spicy kick of kimchi, all wrapped up in a fluffy bed of fried rice. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the chopped kimchi and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, stirring to combine with the pork and kimchi mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Pork and Carrot Potstickers
This recipe yields a savory and flavorful potsticker dish filled with tender pork and crunchy carrots, wrapped in a delicate dough wrapper. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these potstickers are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped carrots, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork-carrot 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 potsticker.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook potstickers in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, or pan-fry until golden brown. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Ground Pork and Spinach Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of savory ground pork and nutritious spinach. It’s an easy and comforting meal that can be ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground pork, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork and Sesame Noodle Salad
Pork and Sesame Noodle Salad: A flavorful and refreshing salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This Asian-inspired dish combines juicy pork, crunchy noodles, and savory sesame flavors to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked pork (such as roast pork or pork belly), sliced into thin strips
– 8 oz. soba noodles
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger.
3. Add the cooked pork and noodles to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of Chinese ground pork delicacies with this collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes. From classic dishes like Mapo Tofu and Pork and Cabbage Dumplings, to innovative twists like Garlic Ginger Ground Pork Lettuce Wraps and Ground Pork and Kimchi Fried Rice, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for noodles, dumplings, or stir-fries, these recipes showcase the versatility of ground pork in Chinese cuisine. Get ready to spice up your cooking with this flavorful roundup!
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