We’ve always been fans of the bold, tangy kick in General Tso’s Chicken, and now we’re flipping the script with our General Tso Pork Recipe. This twist swaps in succulent pork for a crispy, flavorful upgrade that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
Ingredients
In our General Tso Pork recipe, we select fresh, high-quality ingredients to deliver the bold flavors and succulent texture that make this dish a standout alternative to the classic chicken version.
To prepare, we start with the main protein and build from there. Here’s a detailed list of ingredients, ordered as they’re used in the recipe:
- Pork: 1 pound boneless pork loin, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces for even cooking and a tender bite.
- Marinade Components:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce, low-sodium, to infuse the pork with savory depth.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, for a tangy contrast that tenderizes the meat.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced, to add aromatic punch right from the start.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated, for its zesty, warming notes.
- Sauce Ingredients:
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce, the heart of our General Tso Pork glaze, providing sweet and umami richness.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, to balance the heat with caramelized sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water, to thicken the sauce smoothly.
- 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes, adjustable for desired spice level, ensuring a fiery kick without overwhelming the dish.
- Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips, added for crisp texture and vibrant color.
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced, to enhance the savory layers as it cooks down.
- Finishing Touches:
- 2 green onions, chopped, for a fresh, crunchy garnish.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil, drizzled at the end for a nutty finish and authentic sheen.
These ingredients combine to create the irresistible, crispy-tender profile of General Tso Pork, perfect for quick weeknight meals or impressive gatherings.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our flavorful General Tso Pork recipe efficiently, we recommend gathering essential tools that ensure precise cooking and optimal results. This setup helps achieve the dish’s signature crispy-tender pork and vibrant stir-fry without complications.
- Wok or Large Skillet: Essential for high-heat stir-frying to lock in flavors and create that irresistible crispy exterior on the pork.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: We use these for safely and accurately slicing the boneless pork loin and chopping vegetables like bell pepper and onion.
- Mixing Bowls (Medium and Large): Perfect for marinating the pork in soy sauce and rice vinegar mixtures, as well as whisking together the sauce with hoisin sauce and cornstarch.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: These allow us to measure ingredients precisely, such as 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar or 1 teaspoon of chili flakes, for balanced flavors.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for tossing and stirring the pork and vegetables during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even coating in the sauce.
- Whisk: We find this handy for blending the sauce components like brown sugar and cornstarch smoothly before adding to the wok.
Instructions
With our fresh ingredients and equipment ready, we’re excited to guide you through preparing this irresistible General Tso Pork recipe. Each step ensures you achieve crispy-tender pork packed with bold flavors and vibrant textures.
Prepare the Pork
First, we slice 1 pound of boneless pork loin into 1-inch bite-sized pieces for even cooking. In a medium mixing bowl, we combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger to create a flavorful marinade that infuses the meat with spicy and tangy notes. We add the pork pieces to the bowl, toss them thoroughly to coat, and let them marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature, allowing the aromas to penetrate deeply for maximum tenderness.
Make the Sauce
In a separate small bowl, we whisk together 1/4 cup hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon chili flakes, and 1/4 cup water until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step creates a sweet and spicy sauce that thickens perfectly during cooking, delivering the signature glossy coating that makes General Tso Pork so addictive and full of layered flavors.
Cook the Pork
We heat 2 tablespoons sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until it shimmers and releases a nutty aroma. Add the marinated pork pieces and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, tossing frequently with a wooden spoon until the pork turns golden brown and achieves a crispy-tender texture that locks in juices. Once cooked, we remove the pork from the wok and set it aside on a plate to rest, preventing it from overcooking and maintaining its succulent quality.
Assemble and Serve
Return the cooked pork to the wok along with 1 diced bell pepper and 1 sliced onion, stir-frying for 2 minutes to blend the vibrant colors and crisp vegetables. We pour in the prepared sauce, stirring continuously for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats everything evenly, creating a glossy, flavorful stir-fry. Finally, we garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, aromatic finish and serve the dish hot, ready to impress with its irresistible combination of textures and tastes.
Make-Ahead Tips
To streamline our General Tso Pork preparation and ensure a quick weeknight meal, we offer these practical strategies for prepping components in advance. This approach maintains the dish’s bold flavors, tender texture, and vibrant colors while saving time.
Preparing the Pork and Marinade
We suggest marinating the pork ahead to enhance its succulent profile. Slice the boneless pork loin into bite-sized pieces as outlined in our preparation steps, then combine it with the soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger mixture. Store the marinated pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to infuse deeply, resulting in a more irresistible crispy-tender finish when stir-fried.
Making the Sauce in Advance
Our sweet and spicy sauce can be prepared up to 2 days ahead for effortless assembly. In a mixing bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, chili flakes, and water until smooth. Transfer the sauce to a sealed jar or container and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, simply give it a quick stir to recombine any settled ingredients, ensuring a glossy coating that perfectly balances bold flavors like tangy sweetness and subtle heat.
Chopping Vegetables
To preserve the dish’s vibrant colors and fresh crunch, chop the bell pepper, onion, and green onions in advance. Place them in separate airtight bags or containers in the refrigerator, where they will stay crisp for up to 1-2 days. This step minimizes prep time during cooking and keeps the stir-fry lively without compromising texture.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
For make-ahead meals, store the fully assembled General Tso Pork in the refrigerator after cooking. Below is a quick reference table for optimal storage and reheating times to maintain quality:
| Component | Storage Method | Maximum Time | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Pork | Airtight container in fridge | 24 hours | Stir-fry directly from fridge until golden brown. |
| Prepared Sauce | Sealed jar in fridge | 48 hours | Stir well and heat in skillet over medium heat until bubbling. |
| Chopped Vegetables | Airtight bags in fridge | 1-2 days | Add straight to the wok for a fresh crunch. |
| Fully Cooked Dish | Airtight container in fridge | 3 days | Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to restore crispiness. |
By following these tips, we can enjoy our General Tso Pork with minimal effort while preserving its signature crispy-tender profile.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our take on General Tso Pork, turning a classic favorite into a pork-packed delight that’s simple yet full of flavor. It’s perfect for adding excitement to your table, whether you’re feeding the family or impressing friends.
By trying this recipe, you’ll discover how easy it is to create restaurant-quality meals at home. We’re confident it’ll become one of your go-to dishes, so dive in and enjoy the bold tastes we’ve crafted just for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is General Tso Pork?
General Tso Pork is a tasty twist on the classic General Tso’s Chicken, using succulent pork loin instead. It’s a flavorful stir-fry dish with bold Asian-inspired flavors from a marinade of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, plus a sweet-spicy sauce made with hoisin, brown sugar, and chili flakes. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests with its crispy-tender texture and vibrant veggies like bell peppers and onions.
What ingredients are needed for General Tso Pork?
You’ll need boneless pork loin as the main protein, plus a marinade with soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. The sauce requires hoisin sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and chili flakes. Add veggies like bell pepper, onion, and green onions, along with sesame oil for extra flavor. Focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients to get that authentic, bold taste in under 30 minutes of prep.
How do I prepare General Tso Pork?
Start by marinating the pork loin in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes. Whisk together the sauce with hoisin, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Stir-fry the pork in a hot wok or skillet until crispy, then add veggies and the sauce. Cook until everything is tender and coated. Garnish with green onions and serve hot for a delicious meal ready in about 20-30 minutes.
Can I make General Tso Pork ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the pork up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor. Prepare the sauce 1-2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Chop veggies beforehand, but keep them fresh in an airtight container for up to a day. This makes it easy for busy weeknights, helping you assemble and cook quickly while maintaining that signature crispy-tender profile.
What equipment do I need for General Tso Pork?
You’ll need a wok or large skillet for high-heat stir-frying, a sharp knife and cutting board for slicing pork and veggies, and mixing bowls for marinating and whisking the sauce. These basics ensure even cooking and great results without cluttering your kitchen.
How should I store and reheat General Tso Pork?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to keep it moist, or microwave in short bursts. Avoid overcooking to preserve the crispy texture—reheat just until warm for the best flavor and quality.