Taiwanese Style Pork Rice Bowl Recipe
Introduction
If you’re looking to explore the authentic flavors of Taiwan, this Taiwanese Style Pork Rice Bowl is a must-try! This dish is a delightful combination of ground pork, fragrant spices, and savory seasonings, all simmered to perfection and served over a bed of steamed rice. A recipe passed down from a Taiwanese friend, it’s a beloved family meal that will surely become a favorite in your home as well. The savory pork, combined with a touch of sweetness and the depth of five-spice powder, creates a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground pork | 1 lb |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Shallots (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1/3 to 1/2 teaspoon |
| Rice wine | 1 tablespoon |
| Five-spice powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| MSG (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Steamed rice | 4 cups (for serving) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 406.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 24.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 106.7 mg |
| Sodium | 1428.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 11.2 g |
| Fiber | 0.4 g |
| Sugars | 3.6 g |
| Protein | 32.8 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Instructions
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Brown the Pork: Begin by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and cook it until it is browned and fully cooked through. Once cooked, drain any excess oil and set the pork aside.
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Prepare the Aromatics: In a separate large pot, heat a bit of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This step will bring out the rich flavors of the garlic, which will enhance the overall depth of the dish.
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Combine Pork and Shallots: Add the cooked ground pork into the pot along with the finely chopped shallots. Stir the mixture well, allowing the shallots to soften and meld with the pork for a few minutes. The shallots will add a subtle sweetness to the dish.
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Add the Seasonings and Liquid: Pour in 1 cup of water, followed by the soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, five-spice powder, black pepper, and optional MSG. Stir everything together to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the pork and shallots.
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Bring to a Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes. Stir the dish a couple of times during this period to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
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Uncover and Cook: After the initial 45 minutes of simmering, uncover the pot and allow the dish to cook for an additional 15 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken slightly and develop a more concentrated flavor.
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Serve Over Rice: Once the pork mixture is done cooking, it’s time to serve! Spoon the flavorful pork over a bed of steamed rice, allowing the savory sauce to soak into the rice for added flavor.
Tips for Success
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Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce and sugar according to your taste preference. If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a little more sugar. For a saltier, more savory flavor, increase the soy sauce.
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MSG (Optional): MSG is a common ingredient used in many Asian dishes to enhance the umami flavor. If you prefer not to use MSG, you can omit it, but the dish may lack a little depth.
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Rice Variations: While steamed white rice is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other types of rice like brown rice or jasmine rice for a different texture and flavor.
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Meal Prep: This Taiwanese Style Pork Rice Bowl is perfect for meal prep. The dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be easily reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Taiwanese Style Pork Rice Bowl is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of ground pork, soy sauce, rice wine, and five-spice powder results in a deep, savory flavor profile that pairs perfectly with fluffy steamed rice. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or packing it for lunch, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s an excellent introduction to Taiwanese cuisine if you’re looking to expand your cooking repertoire.
Enjoy this hearty, satisfying meal with your loved ones and experience the authentic taste of Taiwan right at your own table!
