Mouthwatering Ground Pork Chinese Recipes You'll Love

In the vast culinary landscape of Chinese cuisine, ground pork emerges as a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can transform simple meals into exotic feasts. Whether you're looking for something quick and easy or a dish that'll impress your guests, these ground pork recipes will not disappoint. Each recipe brings its unique blend of spices, cooking techniques, and cultural heritage, making your home dining experience truly memorable.

Classic Mapo Tofu

Originating from the Sichuan province, Mapo Tofu is known for its spicy and numbing flavors, a testament to the region’s bold culinary approach.

• Ingredients:
  • ¹⁄₂ lb ground pork
  • 14 oz silken tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns
  • 2 tbsp chili bean paste (Doubanjiang)
  • 1 tbsp fermented black beans, rinsed and mashed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 stalks green onion, chopped
• Steps:
  • Heat a wok, add some oil, and stir fry the ground pork until it’s no longer pink.
  • Add Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and continue cooking until aromatic.
  • Stir in the chili bean paste and fermented black beans, cook for another minute.
  • Pour in chicken stock, add the tofu, sugar, and soy sauce. Simmer gently.
  • Garnish with green onions.

⚠️ Note: Mapo Tofu can be adjusted to your spice tolerance by altering the amount of chili bean paste used.

Stir-Fried Eggplant with Ground Pork

This dish combines the tender eggplant with the savory flavor of ground pork in a delicious sauce.

• Ingredients:
  • ¹⁄₂ lb ground pork
  • 3 medium-sized eggplants, cut into slices
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • ¹⁄₂ inch ginger, sliced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with ¹⁄₄ cup water
• Steps:
  • Deep fry or pan-fry eggplant slices until golden brown. Set aside.
  • In the same wok, cook ground pork until fully cooked. Remove pork and set aside.
  • Add garlic and ginger to the wok, stir fry briefly.
  • Return the pork to the wok, add soy sauce and oyster sauce, then thicken with cornstarch mixture.
  • Gently toss in the fried eggplant slices.

Shanghai Style Wontons in Chili Oil

A delightful appetizer or a meal on its own, these wontons in chili oil bring a burst of flavor to any table.

• Ingredients:
  • ¹⁄₂ lb ground pork
  • ¹⁄₄ cup minced chives
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
  • ¹⁄₂ tbsp sesame oil
  • ¹⁄₄ tsp white pepper
  • Wonton wrappers
  • Chili oil
• Steps:
  • Mix pork with chives, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and white pepper for the filling.
  • Wrap the wontons, sealing edges with water or beaten egg white.
  • Cook wontons in boiling water until they float. Drain.
  • Serve in bowls, topped generously with chili oil.

🎁 Note: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for gatherings.

Dan Dan Noodles

With origins from Chengdu, Dan Dan noodles are a street food favorite, featuring ground pork and a spicy, nutty sauce.

• Ingredients:
  • ¹⁄₂ lb ground pork
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp Chinese black vinegar
  • 2 tbsp peanut butter
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chili oil
  • 1 lb dried Chinese noodles
  • 2 stalks green onions, chopped
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
• Steps:
  • Cook noodles according to package instructions, then rinse in cold water to stop cooking.
  • In a wok, cook ground pork until no longer pink. Add soy sauce and hoisin sauce, cook for another minute.
  • Mix together peanut butter, black vinegar, sugar, garlic, and chili oil to make the sauce.
  • Toss noodles in sauce, top with pork, green onions, and sesame seeds.

As we wrap up this culinary journey, remember that Chinese cuisine offers a treasure trove of flavors and techniques waiting to be explored. Ground pork plays a pivotal role in many traditional recipes, providing richness and depth to dishes that range from the bold heat of Sichuan to the subtle complexities of Shanghai. Incorporating these recipes into your home cooking not only diversifies your palate but also connects you with centuries-old traditions through the magic of food. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious beginner, these dishes are accessible, flavorful, and guaranteed to make an impression.

How spicy is Mapo Tofu?

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The heat level in Mapo Tofu can vary, but traditionally, it’s quite spicy due to the Sichuan peppercorns and chili bean paste. You can adjust the spiciness to your preference.

What can I substitute for pork in these recipes?

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While pork provides unique flavors, you can use ground chicken or turkey as substitutes, though the taste profile will change. For vegetarian options, consider using mushrooms or tofu.

Can I make Dan Dan Noodles less spicy?

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Absolutely! To make the dish less spicy, reduce the amount of chili oil or substitute it with sesame oil for a milder flavor profile.

Are these dishes suitable for meal prep?

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Yes, these recipes can be made in advance. However, for the best taste and texture, try to cook and combine elements like noodles or wontons just before serving.

What are good side dishes to pair with these recipes?

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Ideally, pair these dishes with light, refreshing sides like cucumber salad, steamed vegetables, or plain rice to balance the rich flavors of the pork-based dishes.