When it comes to flavorful and savory dishes, few ingredients can match the versatility of ground pork. In Asian cuisine, ground pork is a staple that’s used in a wide range of dishes, from stir-fries and curries to dumplings and noodle bowls. With its rich flavor and tender texture, ground pork is a great canvas for bold flavors and aromatics. From spicy Szechuan peppercorns to fragrant lemongrass, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious and varied Asian ground pork recipes that showcase the best of the continent’s culinary traditions. Whether you’re in the mood for something fiery and bold or comforting and familiar, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So without further ado, let’s dive into the wonderful world of Asian ground pork!
Spicy Szechuan Ground Pork Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese dish that will leave you craving for more, this Spicy Szechuan Ground Pork Stir-Fry is a must-try! With its bold flavors and textures, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and crushed
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 2 teaspoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground pork and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, Szechuan peppercorns, chili flakes, and cornstarch mixture. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Pork with Chili and Garlic
This dish combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the rich taste of pork, all wrapped up in a savory and aromatic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes, depending on desired heat level
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, cook the pork strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, curry paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, fish sauce (if using), and chili flakes. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
3. Add the Thai basil leaves and stir-fry for another minute.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Ground Pork Bibimbap
Discover the flavors of Korea with this simple and delicious recipe for ground pork bibimbap, a popular rice bowl dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded carrots, diced zucchini)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add garlic, soy sauce, Gochujang, and sesame oil to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cooked rice and mixed vegetables.
4. Create a well in the center of the rice mixture and add the ground pork mixture.
5. Pour the beaten egg over the top of the meat mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork Bowls
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with this simple and aromatic recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Steamed jasmine rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemongrass, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
2. Add the pork strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Cook pork until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Serve with steamed jasmine rice or noodles, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Mapo Tofu with Ground Pork
A classic Sichuan dish that combines the spiciness of mapo tofu with the savory flavor of ground pork, all wrapped up in a rich and numbing sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon fermented bean paste (doubanjiang)
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, and Sichuan peppercorns; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the tofu and stir-fry until golden brown.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, cornstarch, and fermented bean paste.
6. Add the mixture to the wok or skillet and stir-fry until the sauce thickens.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Pork Gyoza Filling
A classic Japanese filling made with ground pork, green onions, and sesame oil, perfect for wrapping into delicate gyoza wrappers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions (white and light green parts)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, green onions, soy sauce, sake, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
2. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None needed for this filling recipe! Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before using in gyoza wrappers.
Filipino Pork Lumpia Spring Rolls
Discover the flavors of the Philippines with this classic recipe for pork lumpia spring rolls. Crispy on the outside and packed with savory pork filling, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, onion, cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork filling in the center of the wrapper.
3. Brush the edges of the wrapper with a little water.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the spring rolls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Drain the lumpia on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Ground Pork Curry Laksa
A popular Malaysian dish that combines the richness of pork with the warmth of curry and the comfort of a flavorful noodle soup.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground pork
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 400ml chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups laksa noodles
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground pork and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Add laksa noodles and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Indonesian Pork Soto Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a staple of Indonesian cuisine. Tender pork, flavorful spices, and rich coconut milk come together to create a nourishing and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or shoulder, 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
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, and palm sugar. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the pork is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Singaporean Chili Pork Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Singapore with this spicy and savory noodle dish, featuring tender pork and a rich chili sauce.
Ingredients:
– 200g pork shoulder or belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed noodles (e.g., rice noodles, egg noodles)
– 1 cup Singaporean chili sauce (or substitute with sambal oelek and ketchup)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. In same wok, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
5. Add cooked pork back into the wok, along with chili sauce, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir-fry everything together for 1-2 minutes.
6. Combine noodles and meat mixture. Stir-fry for another minute to combine.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cambodian Pork and Green Bean Stir-Fry
A flavorful and vibrant stir-fry that combines the rich flavors of Cambodia with the crunch of green beans. This recipe is a perfect representation of Cambodian cuisine, where bold flavors and textures come together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (Nam Pla)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the pork and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned.
4. Add the green beans, fish sauce, soy sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 5 minutes, until the green beans are tender-crisp.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Laotian Ground Pork Larb Salad
A classic Laotian dish, Larb (also known as Laap) is a flavorful and refreshing salad made with ground pork, herbs, chilies, and lime juice. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cups mixed herbs (such as mint, cilantro, basil, and Thai basil)
– 2-3 bird’s eye chilies, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted sticky rice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground pork in a pan until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pork, herbs, chilies, garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, and soy sauce. Mix well.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted sticky rice if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Burmese Pork and Tomato Curry
This vibrant curry combines tender pork with sweet and tangy tomatoes, all wrapped up in a flavorful Burmese-inspired sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook the garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they start to break down, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the coconut milk and cooked pork. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Taiwanese Pork Zongzi Sticky Rice Dumplings
Experience the authentic flavors of Taiwan with these delicious pork-filled sticky rice dumplings, perfect for a comforting snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked glutinous rice (sticky rice)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water for wrapping
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked glutinous rice, ground pork, chopped scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Divide the mixture into small portions, about the size of a small egg.
3. Wet your hands with water and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
4. Brush the edges with a little water, then wrap each dumpling in a piece of dough or plastic wrap to seal.
5. Steam the dumplings for 12-15 minutes, or cook them in boiling water for 10-12 minutes.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hong Kong Style Pork Wontons
Experience the authentic flavors of Hong Kong with this classic pork wonton recipe. Delicate wrappers filled with savory pork and vegetable mixture, served in a light broth or stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in a small amount of 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.
Cooking Time:
– Boiling: 8-10 minutes
– Pan-frying: 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown
Indian Spiced Pork Keema
A flavorful and aromatic keema recipe that combines the richness of pork with the warmth of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 500g minced pork
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and cook until they are lightly browned (5-6 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the minced pork and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is fully browned (7-8 minutes).
5. Add cumin, garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with naan bread, rice, or roti.
Nepalese Pork Momo Dumplings
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal with these savory pork momos, wrapped in a delicate dough and steamed to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Water, for dough
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine pork, cabbage, onion, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until just combined.
2. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each portion into a thin circle, about 3 inches in diameter.
3. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the pork filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Steam momos for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bangladeshi Pork Bhuna Masala
This classic Bangladeshi dish is a flavorful and aromatic curry that showcases the rich spices of Bengali cuisine. With tender pork cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start to caramelize.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add pork pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add diced tomatoes, water, and salt. Stir well.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of Asia with these 18 mouthwatering ground pork recipes. From spicy Szechuan stir-fries to savory Thai basil dishes, this collection has something for every taste bud. Try Korean bibimbap, Vietnamese lemongrass bowls, or Chinese mapo tofu for a flavorful twist on classic comfort food. Or, explore Japanese gyoza fillings, Filipino spring rolls, and Malaysian curry laksa for a taste of Southeast Asia’s vibrant street food scene. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, savory, or something in between, these recipes are sure to delight.
Leave a Reply