Spicy Pork Stir-Fry with Cashews and Peppers

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes! Today, we delve into a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the richness of tender pork with the zest of spicy peppers, the crunch of roasted cashews, and a savory Asian-inspired sauce. This Spicy Cashew Pork is more than just a quick dinner; it’s a celebration of textures and tastes that harmonize beautifully in each bite. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a food enthusiast exploring Asian cuisine, this recipe offers a delightful culinary experience that is both satisfying and accessible. Its perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami makes it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for weeknights when time is limited but flavor is paramount. As always, all recipes shared on Love With Recipes aim to bring joy to your kitchen, combining simplicity with culinary finesse—this dish is no exception.

Time

• Total Time: 36 minutes
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 11 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Wok or large nonstick skillet – essential for high-heat stir-frying, ensuring quick cooking and even heat distribution
• Mixing bowls – for marinating the pork and preparing sauces
• Measuring spoons and cups – for precise ingredient measurement
• Chef’s knife – to chop garlic, ginger, and vegetables
• Cutting board – sturdy and sharp for clean cuts
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and tossing ingredients during stir-fry
• Small saucepan – if preparing homemade soy-sugar sauce
• Serving plates or bowls – for presenting the dish beautifully
• Optional: Tongs – helpful for turning pork strips and handling hot ingredients safely

Tags

Chinese, Asian, Spicy, Nutty, Pork, Quick, Easy, Family-Friendly, Dinner, Stir-Fry, Weeknight Meal, Healthy, Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free soy sauce), Savory, Crunchy

Serving Size

This recipe makes enough for 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering of friends.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate. Requires basic stir-fry skills, such as controlling high heat, quick ingredient prep, and timing for perfect texture and flavor.

Allergen Information

Note: For gluten-free options, use gluten-free soy sauce. Always check ingredient labels if you or your guests have food allergies.

Dietary Preference

• Gluten-Free: Yes (with soy sauce substitute)
• Low-Carb: Moderate (contains sugar and carbs from soy sauce and sugar)
• Paleo: Not suitable due to soy sauce and sugar
• Keto: Can be adapted by reducing sugar and using keto-friendly sweeteners
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Not suitable, but can be adapted with plant-based protein and vegan sauces

Course

Main Course / Stir-Fry Dish

Cuisine

Asian / Chinese-inspired

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preparing the Marinade

Start by creating a flavorful marinade that will tenderize and infuse the pork with depth. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of dry sherry, which adds a subtle sweetness and complexity; 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, which acts as a tenderizer and thickening agent; and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce for umami. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. For added aroma and a hint of nuttiness, drizzle in a teaspoon of sesame oil, stirring to incorporate. This step ensures the pork will be juicy, tender, and flavorful.

Next, add the sliced boneless pork loin to the marinade, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Use your hands or a spatula to gently toss and massage the marinade into the pork, ensuring thorough coverage. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the pork marinate at room temperature for at least 10 minutes. If preparing ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours, but avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours to prevent the pork from becoming overly soft.

2. Preparing the Vegetables and Cashews

While the pork marinates, prep your vegetables. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide, to ensure quick cooking and vibrant presentation. Rinse the snow peas under cold water and pat dry. Roast the cashews in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and release a fragrant aroma—about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. Roasting enhances their crunch and flavor, making them a perfect addition to the dish.

3. Cooking the Dish – Step-by-Step

First Phase – Stir-Frying Aromatics and Vegetables

Place a wok or large nonstick skillet over high heat. Allow it to become very hot; you’ll know it’s ready when a single drop of water vaporizes immediately upon contact. Add 1.5 tablespoons of peanut oil (or vegetable oil if preferred), swirling to coat the surface evenly. The oil should shimmer and slightly smoke, indicating optimal stir-frying temperature.

Quickly add 1 teaspoon of minced ginger, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon of hot red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about 5 seconds until fragrant—be attentive to prevent burning. Immediately add the sliced red bell pepper and stir-fry for approximately 2 minutes. The peppers should become tender yet retain some crunch, and their bright color should remain vivid. Toss the vegetables continuously to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Next, add the snow peas and roasted cashews. Continue stir-frying for another 1 to 2 minutes until the snow peas are crisp-tender. The cashews will add a delightful crunch, and the snow peas will retain their bright green hue. Transfer the vegetable and cashew mixture to a bowl and set aside temporarily.

Second Phase – Cooking the Pork

In the same wok, add the remaining 1.5 tablespoons of peanut oil. Allow it to heat until nearly smoking. Add the remaining minced ginger and garlic, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like more heat. Stir for about 5 seconds until the aromatics release their fragrance, then add the marinated pork strips. Spread the pork out in the wok to avoid overcrowding, and let it sear undisturbed for 1-2 minutes to develop a nice browned exterior.

Using tongs or a spatula, stir-fry the pork, breaking apart any clumps, until it is browned on all sides and just cooked through—about 2-3 minutes. The pork should be tender and still slightly pink in the center, as it will cook a bit more when combined with the vegetables.

3. Combining and Final Cooking

Return the pre-cooked vegetable mixture to the wok with the pork. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly. To create a balanced sauce, stir together the remaining soy sauce (about 2 tablespoons) with a teaspoon of sugar, dissolving the sugar completely. Pour this sweetened soy sauce over the stir-fry, tossing everything together. Cook for an additional 1 minute, ensuring the vegetables are heated through and flavors meld.

Finally, sprinkle the roasted cashews over the top, giving the dish a final stir to distribute them evenly. Serve your Spicy Cashew Pork immediately over steamed jasmine rice or your preferred grain for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped scallions or a drizzle of sesame oil if desired for extra flavor.

Preparation Tips

• Marinate the pork just before stir-frying to maximize tenderness and flavor absorption.
• Use a high-quality wok or heavy-bottomed skillet for optimal heat transfer.
• Pre-cut vegetables and measure all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
• Adjust the spicy red pepper flakes according to your heat tolerance—start small and add more if desired.
• Roasting cashews beforehand enhances their flavor and crunch, but you can also buy pre-roasted cashews for convenience.
• Ensure your stove’s exhaust fan is on, as stir-frying at high heat can produce smoke and strong aromas.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice at the end of cooking.
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste—fresh ginger and garlic make a significant difference.
• To make it spicier, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of chili paste.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in cold water and stir into the stir-fry during the final minute.
• For a more authentic flavor, incorporate a drizzle of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce, but adjust salt accordingly.

Add-ons

• Chopped scallions or cilantro for garnish
• Fresh sliced chili for additional heat
• Sesame seeds sprinkled on top for added texture and flavor
• Served alongside steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• For a protein boost, add scrambled eggs or tofu

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice
• Stir-fried vegetables such as bok choy, broccoli, or bok choy
• Simple Asian cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil
• Spring rolls or egg rolls for an appetizer
• Miso soup or hot and sour soup to complement the main

Improvements

• Use homemade or high-quality soy sauce for a richer flavor profile.
• Add a splash of Chinese Shaoxing wine instead of dry sherry for a more authentic taste.
• Incorporate thinly sliced onions or scallions for added sweetness and aroma.
• Experiment with different nuts like almonds or peanuts for variation.
• Adjust spice level by adding fresh chili slices or chili paste for more intense heat.

Save and Store

This dish is best enjoyed immediately for maximum crunch and freshness. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Note that the cashews may lose some crunch after refrigeration, so consider adding fresh cashews when reheating for texture.

FAQ

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the pork with firm tofu or tempeh and use a vegetarian-friendly soy sauce or tamari. Adjust cooking times accordingly, and follow the same stir-fry process.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. Be cautious with pre-made sauces, always check labels.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level can be adjusted by the amount of red pepper flakes used. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste. For milder flavor, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

Is it suitable for kids?

Yes, but consider reducing or removing the red pepper flakes to make it milder. The sweet cashews and tender pork tend to be kid-friendly components.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of stir-fry is essential for quick, flavorful meals, and this Spicy Cashew Pork exemplifies that skill. Its combination of tender pork, crunchy nuts, sweet peppers, and fiery spices creates a dish that is both satisfying and exciting to eat. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressive weekend dinners, this dish embodies the essence of Asian comfort food with a spicy twist. Remember to prep all ingredients beforehand, cook at high heat, and taste as you go to perfect your version. Sharing this recipe on Love With Recipes ensures you bring a touch of authentic Asian flavor into your home, delighting family and friends alike.

References

• Maangchi’s Korean Cooking: https://www.maangchi.com
• The Woks of Life: https://thewoksoflife.com