Pork fillet, also known as tenderloin, is a lean and tender cut of pork that comes from the inside of the pig’s backbone. This cut is perfect for various Chinese cooking methods due to its fine texture and lack of fat. In this article, we’ll explore several classic Chinese-style pork fillet recipes that are easy to follow and delicious to enjoy.
Preparation and Selection
Before diving into the cooking methods, it’s crucial to select the right pork fillet. Look for a piece that is firm, bright red in color, and has a slightly glossy appearance. Avoid any pork fillet that has a dull color, dry texture, or a bad odor.
Once you’ve selected your pork fillet, it’s essential to prepare it properly. This includes trimming off any excess fat or sinew, which can affect the final texture and taste of your dish.
Boiled Pork Fillet with Light Soy Sauce
Ingredients
- Pork fillet: 500 grams
- Water: enough to cover the pork fillet
- Light soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Ginger: 3 slices
- Green onion: 1 stalk, tied into a knot
- Salt: to taste
- White pepper: a pinch
Instructions
- Fill a pot with enough water to cover the pork fillet and bring it to a boil.
- Add the pork fillet, ginger slices, green onion knot, salt, and white pepper.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the pork fillet is cooked through.
- Remove the pork fillet from the pot and let it cool slightly.
- Slice the pork fillet thinly and serve with a dipping sauce made of light soy sauce, a drop of sesame oil, and finely chopped garlic.
- This simple yet flavorful dish highlights the natural sweetness of the pork fillet and is perfect for a light meal or as part of a larger banquet.
Stir-Fried Pork Fillet with Vegetables
Ingredients
- Pork fillet: 300 grams
- Bell pepper: 1, sliced
- Snap peas: 100 grams
- Carrot: 1, sliced into thin strips
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1 teaspoon, finely chopped
- Light soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Shaoxing wine: 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon mixed with 2 tablespoons of water
- Salt: to taste
- White pepper: a pinch
- Vegetable oil: for stir-frying
Instructions
- Slice the pork fillet into thin strips and marinate with a pinch of salt, white pepper, and 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce for 15 minutes.
- Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom.
- Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the marinated pork fillet strips and stir-fry until they turn opaque (about 2 minutes).
- Add the bell pepper, snap peas, and carrot strips. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Pour in the oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine (if using), and the remaining light soy sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Thicken the sauce with the cornstarch mixture and stir-fry for another minute until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
- This colorful stir-fry is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The combination of tender pork fillet and crisp vegetables makes it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Sweet and Sour Pork Fillet
Ingredients
- Pork fillet: 400 grams
- Cornstarch: for dusting
- Vegetable oil: for deep-frying
- Pineapple: 1 cup, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Green onion: 2 stalks, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Sugar: 3 tablespoons
- Vinegar: 4 tablespoons
- Tomato ketchup: 2 tablespoons
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Water: 1/4 cup
- Salt: to taste
- White pepper: a pinch
Instructions
- Cut the pork fillet into bite-sized cubes and marinate with a pinch of salt and white pepper for 15 minutes.
- Dust the pork cubes lightly with cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
- Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to about 350°F (175°C). Deep-fry the pork cubes in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per batch). Drain on paper towels.
- In a separate wok or skillet, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the pineapple, red bell pepper, and chopped green onion. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, vinegar, tomato ketchup, soy sauce, and water. Pour this mixture into the wok and stir well to combine.
- Add the deep-fried pork cubes to the wok and stir gently to coat them with the sweet and sour sauce.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or with a side of fried rice.
- Sweet and sour pork fillet is a classic Chinese dish that is loved by many. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes it irresistible, and the crispy pork cubes add a delightful texture to the dish.
Conclusion
Cooking pork fillet Chinese style offers a wide range of delicious possibilities. From simple boiled dishes with light soy sauce to stir-fries with vibrant vegetables and sweet and sour masterpieces, there’s a recipe to suit every taste and occasion. With its tender texture and mild flavor, pork fillet is an excellent choice for Chinese cooking, where it can be transformed into countless delightful dishes.
When preparing pork fillet, remember to select high-quality meat and prepare it properly. Follow the recipes closely, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique dishes. With a little practice, you’ll be able to cook pork fillet Chinese style with confidence and expertise. Enjoy your cooking journey and bon appétit!
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