Delicious Pork Chop Suey Recipe for Beginners

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we believe that food is an expression of heritage, comfort, and culinary artistry. The timeless dish of Pork Chop Suey embodies those qualities perfectly, offering a hearty, flavorful experience that has delighted families for generations. Rooted in Chinese-American cuisine, Chop Suey has evolved into a beloved classic that combines tender pork, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce, all harmonized to create a nourishing meal. This recipe, passed down through decades, exemplifies the art of balancing flavors and textures, while also allowing for flexibility and personal touches. Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic dinner or an engaging way to explore Chinese-inspired cooking, this Pork Chop Suey will serve you well, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas and your table with comfort. As always, we encourage you to embrace your culinary creativity, adapt ingredients to your preferences, and enjoy the process as much as the delicious result. Remember, Love With Recipes is your partner in creating memorable meals—so let’s dive into this hearty, satisfying Pork Chop Suey recipe that has stood the test of time and will surely become a family favorite in your household.

Time

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 hours

Needed Equipment

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Pressure cooker (optional but highly recommended for tenderizing pork)
• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Can opener (for broth and bean sprouts)
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
• Stovetop with compatible burner
• Rice cooker or pot for cooking rice
• Strainer or colander (for rinsing vegetables and bean sprouts)
• Kitchen thermometer (optional, for ensuring pork is cooked properly)

Tags

Chinese cuisine, Pork dishes, Family recipes, Comfort food, Stir-fry, Slow-cooked meals, Traditional, Hearty, Easy dinner, Meal prep, Classic

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 5 to 6 generous servings, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. Each serving offers a balanced portion of pork, vegetables, and sauce, perfect for pairing with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Difficulty Level

Moderate. While the recipe involves multiple steps, including tenderizing the pork and simmering the dish, it is accessible for home cooks with basic culinary skills. The use of a pressure cooker simplifies the process and ensures tender, flavorful pork. Attention to timing and flavor balancing is key for best results.

Allergen Information

Always check ingredient labels and consider substitutions if you have food allergies or sensitivities. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free soy sauce.

Dietary Preference

Traditional: Omnivore. Variations can be made to accommodate gluten-free or low-sodium diets by selecting appropriate ingredients.

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

Chinese-American

Ingredients

Ingredient List in Detail

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pork

Start by selecting the right cut of pork. For this recipe, lean pork such as tenderloin or shoulder works well, providing tenderness and flavor. If you have a pressure cooker, this is the ideal tool to tenderize the pork efficiently. Begin by cutting the pork into approximately 1/2-inch cubes, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Rinse the pork pieces under cold water and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help achieve a good sear and prevent splattering during cooking.

If you are using a pressure cooker, you can first briefly marinate the pork with a splash of soy sauce and a pinch of white pepper to enhance flavor. Alternatively, you may season the pork with salt and pepper before browning. The key is to develop a rich, caramelized crust on the pork pieces to lock in juices and develop flavor.

Step 2: Preparing Vegetables

Next, prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the onion into long, slender slivers—this shape helps the onions integrate smoothly into the dish and provides a pleasant texture. Slice the celery diagonally into thin, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and to maximize visual appeal. Slice the mushrooms into small, bite-sized pieces, which will soften during cooking while adding an earthy umami note.

Rinse the bean sprouts thoroughly under cold water and drain well. Bean sprouts add crispness and freshness to the dish, offering a contrast to the tender pork and cooked vegetables. Keep all vegetables ready and within arm’s reach before starting to cook.

Step 3: Sautéing and Browning Pork

Heat a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the cooking oil and butter, allowing the butter to melt and bubble gently. The butter adds richness and flavor, while the oil prevents burning and provides a high smoke point for searing.

Once the oil and butter are hot, add the pork cubes. Do not stir immediately; allow the pork to brown on one side for approximately 2 minutes. This initial searing creates a flavorful crust, sealing in juices. After that, stir and turn the pork pieces to brown all sides evenly. Proper browning is crucial for developing depth of flavor in the final dish.

Step 4: Cooking the Vegetables

Add the sliced onion, celery, and mushrooms to the pan with the pork. Sprinkle in the white pepper for seasoning. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, to allow the vegetables to soften and release their flavors. The onions should become translucent, and the celery should become tender but still retain some crunch for texture. This step typically takes around 8-10 minutes, depending on the heat and the size of the vegetable slices.

Step 5: Building the Flavor Base

Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom—these bits are packed with flavor. Add the rinsed bean sprouts to the mixture, stirring gently to prevent breaking them apart. Incorporate the molasses, which adds sweetness and a touch of complexity, balancing the savory elements of soy and broth.

At this stage, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning. If it needs more saltiness, add a splash more soy sauce. For additional sweetness, a drizzle of molasses can be added. Conversely, if you prefer a tangier flavor, a splash of vinegar can be incorporated. Remember, the flavors will meld and intensify during simmering, so balance accordingly.

Step 6: Simmering and Tenderizing

Cover the skillet or pot with a lid. If using a pressure cooker, bring it up to a slow rocking pressure and cook for 10 minutes. This method tenderizes the pork quickly and infuses the flavors thoroughly. If cooking conventionally, reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer gently for at least one hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Longer simmering enhances tenderness and allows flavors to deepen.

When using a pressure cooker, after the initial 10-minute cook, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Open the lid once safe, and continue simmering uncovered for about 20 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and intensify.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

To achieve a rich, glossy sauce, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1/2 cup of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the simmering dish while stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil; the sauce will thicken quickly. Reduce the heat and let it cook for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should become velvety and cling to the pork and vegetables, creating a cohesive, flavorful coating.

Step 8: Preparing the Rice

While the pork chop suey is finishing, prepare the rice. Use long-grain rice for optimal texture. Add 1 cup of rice, 2 cups of water, and a pinch of salt to a pot or rice cooker. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting and cover. Let simmer for 25 minutes without lifting the lid—this ensures fluffy, fully cooked rice. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 9: Serving and Garnishing

Serve the hot Pork Chop Suey over a bed of freshly cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired for added flavor and presentation. The dish is best enjoyed immediately but can also be stored for leftovers.

Preparation Tips

• Use uniform pork cubes for even cooking and tenderness.
• Marinate the pork briefly with soy sauce and white pepper to enhance flavor.
• Properly sear the pork to develop rich, caramelized flavors.
• Use fresh vegetables for maximum crunch and flavor; pre-slice and organize before cooking.
• Deglaze the pan with broth and soy sauce to incorporate all browned bits into the sauce.
• Simmer slowly to tenderize the pork and develop complex flavors.
• Adjust seasoning gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory.
• Thicken the sauce at the end for a luscious texture that coats the ingredients beautifully.
• Allow the dish to rest after cooking to let flavors meld before serving.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. For precise data, consider using a nutritional calculator tailored to your ingredients.

Tips and Tricks

• Marinate the pork: For extra flavor, marinate the pork cubes in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Vegetable texture: For crunchier vegetables, add the bean sprouts at the very end of cooking, just to heat through.
• Flavor layering: Incorporate minced garlic or fresh ginger during sautéing for added depth.
• Adjust thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or water; if too thin, add more cornstarch slurry.
• Alternative proteins: Substitute pork with chicken, beef, or tofu for variation.

Add-ons

• Sliced green onions or chives for garnish
• Sesame seeds for added nuttiness
• Hot sauce or chili flakes for heat
• Fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness
• Egg drop or fried egg on top for extra richness

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Stir-fried bok choy or Chinese broccoli
• Fried won-ton or spring rolls
• Pickled vegetables or kimchi for contrast
• Sweet and sour cucumber salad

Improvements and Variations

• Vegetable variations: Incorporate bell peppers, snow peas, carrots, or bok choy for added color and texture.
• Sauce enhancements: Add oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for richer flavor profiles.
• Spicy version: Mix in chopped chili peppers or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Gluten-free adaptation: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and ensure broth is gluten-free.

Save and Store

This Pork Chop Suey keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the pork with firm tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Keep the vegetables the same or add your favorites for a hearty vegetarian version.

Is it necessary to use a pressure cooker?

No, the dish can be made entirely on the stovetop. The pressure cooker speeds up tenderization of the pork and enhances flavor infusion, but slow simmering on the stove works well too, albeit with a longer cooking time.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or too thin?

Adjust the cornstarch slurry gradually, adding small amounts and stirring continuously. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with broth or water. If too thin, add more slurry and simmer until desired consistency is achieved.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes. The flavors deepen after resting, making it ideal for meal prep. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth if necessary to rehydrate the sauce.

Conclusion

With its rich history and comforting flavors, this Pork Chop Suey recipe exemplifies the harmony of tender meat, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce. As a versatile and satisfying dish, it adapts easily to personal preferences and dietary needs. Whether served on busy weeknights or special occasions, it promises to bring warmth and nostalgia to your table. Remember, the key to perfection lies in patience—allowing flavors to meld and the pork to tenderize results in a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. We hope you enjoy creating this classic, and don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredient variations and enhancements. For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, keep exploring Love With Recipes, your trusted partner in the kitchen.

References

• “Chinese-American Recipes,” The Woks of Life, https://thewoksoflife.com
• “Classic Pork Chop Suey,” Chinese Food Recipes, https://chinesefoodrecipes.com