Pork and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Stir fry's are so good and it's so easy to work a lot of veggies into a meal with them. I had some yellow bell pepper left from something else, that was chopped into this and it went perfectly.
Stir fry's are so good and it's so easy to work a lot of veggies into a meal with them. I had some yellow bell pepper left from something else, that was chopped into this and it went perfectly.
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 cup sliced water chestnuts
- 3/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 lb lean boneless pork
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry or 2 tablespoons water
- nonstick spray coating
- 1 package frozen chopped broccoli thawed and well drained
- 1 -2 teaspoon cooking oil
- 1 1/2 cups hot cooked brown rice
- Carbohydrate 34.5306435220171 g
- Cholesterol 51.4071352666667 mg
- Fat 47.7628157361607 g
- Fiber 2.21255661535029 g
- Protein 8.88938110226024 g
- Saturated Fat 17.2724730206659 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (307g)
- Sodium 837.585377820413 mg
- Sugar 32.3180869066668 g
- Trans Fat 2.29352151549827 g
- Calories 606 calories
Step-by-step
- Partially freeze meat. Thinly slice across the grain into bite-size strips.
- Meanwhile, for sauce, stir together chicken broth, cornstarch, soy sauce, dry sherry, and red pepper. Set aside.
- Spray a wok or large skillet with nonstick spray coating.
- Add onion, broccoli, garlic, and ginger and stir-fry for 3 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Remove vegetable mixture from wok.
- Add oil to hot wok.
- Add pork and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes or until done.
- Push pork from center of wok.
- Stir sauce and add to the center of wok.
- Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.
- Return vegetables to wok.
- Add water chestnuts and stir all ingredients together to coat with sauce.
- Cook and stir for 1 to 2 minutes more or until heated through.
My Go-To Weeknight Pork and Broccoli Stir-Fry
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a monumental task. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, and endless to-do lists, the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving over a hot stove. That's why I rely heavily on quick, easy recipes like this pork and broccoli stir-fry. It's ready in under 30 minutes, packed with flavor, and uses simple ingredients I usually have on hand.
This stir-fry is my secret weapon for those hectic weeknights. It's incredibly versatile. Sometimes I add a splash of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor, or if I have some leftover bell peppers or carrots, I throw them in. The beauty of stir-fries is the adaptability. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, snow peas, and even bean sprouts would be delicious additions. The key is to keep the vegetables bite-sized so they cook evenly and quickly.
The sauce is the star of the show, and it couldn't be simpler. A combination of chicken broth, cornstarch, soy sauce, and a touch of sherry (or even just water in a pinch) creates a savory and slightly sweet glaze that clings perfectly to the pork and vegetables. The hint of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick that complements the other flavors without being overpowering. I find that partially freezing the pork before slicing helps it to cook evenly and prevents it from becoming tough.
Beyond the Recipe: A Weeknight Ritual
Cooking isn't just about nourishment; it's about creating a sense of calm and connection in the midst of a busy life. While this recipe prioritizes speed and efficiency, I also cherish the small moments it provides. The rhythmic chopping of vegetables, the sizzle of the wok, the fragrant steam – these are the simple pleasures that ground me and help me unwind after a long day. It’s become a mini-ritual, a way to de-stress and reconnect with myself before diving into the evening's activities.
More Than Just Dinner: A Family Affair
This stir-fry has become a family favorite. My kids love the colorful vegetables and the flavorful sauce, and even my picky eater can't resist it. It's a great way to sneak in extra vegetables, ensuring everyone gets their daily dose of nutrients. More than just a meal, it's a chance to connect with my family. We often gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying this delicious and healthy meal together.
Adapting for Different Lifestyles
This recipe is easily adaptable to different dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, simply substitute the pork with firm tofu or tempeh. The sauce works beautifully with either. If you're watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth. For a gluten-free version, make sure to use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
I usually serve this stir-fry over hot cooked brown rice, but it’s also delicious with quinoa, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch and visual appeal. A simple side salad completes the meal perfectly.
The Takeaway
This Pork and Broccoli Stir-fry isn't just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, healthy meals that fit seamlessly into a busy life. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, we can still find time to nourish ourselves and our families with delicious, home-cooked food. The ease of preparation, the versatility of ingredients, and the delicious results make this a recipe I'll be making again and again.
