Moo Shu Pork Recipe

Moo Shu Pork is a delightful dish that combines tender pork, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, all wrapped in soft pancakes. This traditional Chinese recipe is not only delicious but also offers a fun, hands-on way to enjoy your meal. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, Moo Shu Pork has become a favorite in many households. You will love how it brings a taste of the Asian restaurant experience right into your kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Moo Shu Pork at home allows for flexibility in ingredients and flavors while providing a healthier alternative to takeout. You control the quality of the ingredients, ensuring freshness and taste. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even casual weeknights. Additionally, its bright colors and vibrant flavors make it appealing to both adults and children alike. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate veggies into your meal!

How to Make Moo Shu Pork

Creating Moo Shu Pork is a straightforward process that involves marinating the pork, cooking the eggs, and stir-frying the vegetables and meat. With a well-structured method, you can easily whip up this dish in no time.

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup Hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice wine
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons mirin (optional)
• 1 ¼ lb pork tenderloin sliced into very thin strips
• 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
• 1 (16-ounce) bag tricolor coleslaw (see notes)
• 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms stemmed and sliced
• 4 green onions thinly sliced

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Hoisin sauce, rice wine, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, sesame oil, black pepper, and mirin (if using). Remove ½ cup of the marinade and set it aside.

2. Add the sliced pork to the remaining marinade, stirring to coat. Let it sit and marinate while you cook the eggs.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and cook until they are set enough to flip. Use a spatula to turn the eggs over and cook the other side. Remove the eggs from the skillet and cut them into thin strips. Cover and keep warm.

4. In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Using tongs, remove the pork from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Add the pork to the hot skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Work in batches if necessary, and keep the cooked pork warm on a plate.

5. Add one more tablespoon of oil to the skillet and heat over medium heat. Stir in the coleslaw, sliced mushrooms, and half of the green onions. Stir-fry until the cabbage starts to wilt and the mushrooms become tender.

6. Return the cooked pork and egg strips back to the skillet. Whisk the reserved sauce mixture that you set aside earlier, drizzle it over the pork and vegetables, and stir to combine. Cook over low heat until heated through. Top with the reserved green onions. For best results, serve promptly.

How to Serve Moo Shu Pork

Moo Shu Pork is best served with Chinese pancakes or tortillas. Guests can use the pancakes to wrap the filling, creating a delicious bite-sized meal. You can add extra garnishes like sesame seeds or chopped cilantro for added flavor. Pair it with a side of steamed rice or your favorite Chinese side dishes for a complete meal.

How to Store Moo Shu Pork

To store Moo Shu Pork, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. If you wish to freeze it, store it in airtight freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Moo Shu Pork

• Slice the pork as thinly as possible to ensure it cooks quickly and stays tender.
• Allow the pork to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes for optimal flavor.
• For a healthier option, you can add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
• Make sure to stir-fry on high heat to achieve that perfect texture.
• For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

Variations

While traditional Moo Shu Pork features pork, you can easily substitute it with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, feel free to mix and match vegetables based on personal preferences. Some popular variations include adding bell peppers or changing the sauce to a spicy version for an extra kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables in Moo Shu Pork?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in this recipe. Just make sure they are thawed and drained to remove excess moisture before stir-frying.

2. Are Moo Shu Pork pancakes necessary?
While traditional recipes call for pancakes, you can substitute them with tortillas or serve the dish over rice for a different experience.

3. How can I make Moo Shu Pork gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

4. What can I serve with Moo Shu Pork?
You can pair Moo Shu Pork with steamed rice, fried rice, or a light soup. Adding pickled vegetables can also complement the dish nicely.

With its incredible flavor and satisfying textures, Moo Shu Pork is a dish that can bring joy to any meal. By following this recipe, you’ll create a delicious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends!