Gu Lu Rou

Gu Lu Rou Recipe from Hong Kong - Pork, Mushroom, Pineapple, and Peppers

Region / culture: Hong Kong | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Gu Lu Rou, also known as Sweet and Sour Pork, is a popular Chinese dish that combines tender pieces of pork with a sweet and tangy sauce. This dish is a favorite among many for its delicious flavors and crispy texture.

History

Gu Lu Rou has a long history in Chinese cuisine and is believed to have originated in the Guangdong province of China. It has since become a staple in Chinese restaurants around the world, loved for its unique combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

300 g lean pork
4 dry black mushrooms
2 slices canned pineapple
1 green pepper
1 red pepper
2 egg whites
1 cup corn flour

Seasoning

0.5 tbsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp light soy sauce

Sauce

2 tbsp light soy sauce
3 tbsp sugar
3 tbsp red vinegar
2 tbsp corn flour
6 tbsp water

How to prepare

Clean the pork and cut it into thick and small slices. Marinate the pork with seasoning (1).
Cut the pineapple, green pepper, and red pepper into small dices.
Soak the black mushrooms in hot water until soft, then chop them into 4 pieces.
In a separate bowl, mix the egg whites with the marinated pork until well combined.
Coat each pork slice fully with corn flour.
Heat a wok with plenty of oil and add the pork slices one by one in high heat.
Reduce the heat to low once all the pork slices are in the wok.
Increase the heat to high again when the pork turns golden, then remove the pork from the wok.
Pour out the hot oil and reheat the same wok with some oil remaining.
Add the green and red peppers, mushrooms, and stir-fry them in high heat for 1 minute.
Add the pineapple and the mixed sauce, and stir-fry until the sauce boils.
Add the parboiled pork and stir-fry until the pork turns red. Remove from heat and serve.

Variations

Substitute the pork with chicken or tofu for a different twist on this classic dish.
Add diced onions, carrots, or water chestnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar in the sauce to create a sweeter or tangier dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Coat the pork slices in corn flour before frying to create a crispy outer layer.

- Be careful not to overcook the pork, as it can become tough and dry.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar in the sauce to suit your personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Gu Lu Rou is best served hot over steamed rice or noodles. It can also be paired with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying the pork in high heat helps to create a crispy texture.

- Parboiling the pork before stir-frying ensures that it cooks evenly and stays tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or tofu instead of pork for a different protein option.

- Substitute the black mushrooms with shiitake mushrooms or button mushrooms.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the pork and prepare the sauce ahead of time to save time on the day of cooking. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Gu Lu Rou in a decorative serving dish garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Gu Lu Rou pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. It also goes well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Gu Lu Rou contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Gu Lu Rou contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Gu Lu Rou contains approximately 15g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Gu Lu Rou contains approximately 20g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Gu Lu Rou is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and corn flour, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Gu Lu Rou is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Gu Lu Rou is a delicious and flavorful Chinese dish that is sure to please your taste buds. With a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors, tender pork, and crispy vegetables, this dish is a favorite for many. Enjoy it with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the secrets of cooking from my elders. I had always been fascinated by the way my grandmother would effortlessly whip up delicious meals in the kitchen, using ingredients that seemed to magically transform into mouthwatering dishes.

One day, I was visiting a distant aunt who lived in a small village in the countryside. She was known for her culinary skills, and I was thrilled at the thought of learning some new recipes from her. As soon as I arrived, she welcomed me warmly and immediately set to work preparing a feast for us to enjoy.

One of the dishes she made that day was Gu Lu Rou, a traditional Chinese dish that I had never heard of before. As I watched her chop the pork into bite-sized pieces and marinate them in a fragrant blend of soy sauce, rice wine, and ginger, I knew that this was a recipe I had to learn.

I asked my aunt if she would teach me how to make Gu Lu Rou, and she smiled warmly and agreed. As we cooked together, she shared stories of her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe to her many years ago. She explained the importance of using the right balance of sweet and savory flavors, and how the key to a successful Gu Lu Rou lies in the slow braising of the pork until it is tender and infused with the rich sauce.

I listened intently, taking mental notes of every step and every ingredient she used. I was determined to master this dish and carry on the tradition of passing it down to future generations.

After several hours of cooking and simmering, the Gu Lu Rou was finally ready. The aroma that filled the kitchen was irresistible, and I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of our labor. I took my first bite, and my taste buds exploded with delight. The pork was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the sauce was a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. It was a moment of pure culinary bliss.

From that day on, Gu Lu Rou became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would often make it for family gatherings and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from my loved ones. The recipe had become a part of me, a link to my past and a bridge to my future.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it uniquely mine. But the essence of the dish remains unchanged, a testament to the enduring power of tradition and the art of cooking.

As I sit here reflecting on that fateful day in my aunt's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons she imparted to me and the memories we created together. The recipe for Gu Lu Rou will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing good food with the ones we love. And I hope that one day, my own grandchildren will learn to make this dish, carrying on the tradition for generations to come.