Pork Shirataki

Pork Shirataki Recipe from Japan with Ginger and Bell Pepper

Region / culture: Japan | Preparation time: 4-5 hours | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pork Shirataki is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender pork with colorful vegetables and chewy shirataki noodles. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a low-carb and gluten-free meal option that is still packed with flavor.

History

Pork Shirataki is a modern twist on traditional Asian stir-fry dishes. Shirataki noodles, made from the konjac yam, have been used in Asian cuisine for centuries. The addition of pork, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings creates a unique and tasty dish that is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) pork chops, sliced into thin strips
1 inch fresh ginger, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
0.25 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp hoisin sauce
2 tbsp dark sesame oil
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp red pepper flakes, to taste
salt and pepper
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
0.5 medium onion, sliced into strips
2 (7 oz (198 g)) bags shirataki noodles

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, combine the first 8 ingredients and toss them together.
Allow it to marinate for 4–5 hours or overnight, tossing every few hours.
Heat a little more sesame oil in a large wok or skillet.
Remove the pork from the marinade, shake off any excess marinade, and stir-fry in the wok or skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
Dissolve the cornstarch in the marinade by whisking it together.
After the pork is fully cooked, add the peppers and onions to the wok or skillet and stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
Add the noodles and marinade to the wok or skillet, and bring it to a boil to thicken the sauce.

Variations

Substitute chicken or tofu for the pork for a different protein option.
Add additional vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrients.
Use different seasonings such as teriyaki sauce or chili garlic sauce for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the pork for at least 4–5 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Stir-fry the pork in a hot skillet or wok to ensure that it cooks quickly and evenly.

- Be sure to shake off any excess marinade before adding the pork to the skillet to prevent it from becoming too saucy.

- Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture in this dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pork Shirataki hot with a side of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the best cooking technique for this recipe, as it allows the ingredients to cook quickly and retain their texture and flavor. Be sure to cook the pork on high heat to ensure that it stays tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find shirataki noodles, you can substitute with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative. You can also use regular pasta or rice noodles if you are not concerned about carbohydrates.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the pork and prepare the vegetables ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights. Store the marinated pork in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Pork Shirataki in a large serving bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pork Shirataki with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with green tea or sparkling water with a splash of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Pork Shirataki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 320

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 12g

Dietary Fiber: 2g

Net Carbohydrates: 10g

Fats

Total Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: 5g

Proteins

Protein: 32g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

Vitamin C: 60%

Calcium: 4%

Iron: 15%

Alergens

Soy

Summary

Pork Shirataki is a low-carb, high-protein dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and satisfying meal option for those looking to watch their carbohydrate intake.

Summary

Pork Shirataki is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for those looking for a low-carb and gluten-free meal option. With tender pork, colorful vegetables, and chewy shirataki noodles, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Pork Shirataki. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Japan. My mother had sent me to the market to pick up some ingredients for dinner, and as I wandered the stalls, I came across a vendor selling shirataki noodles.

I had never seen these noodles before, but the vendor assured me that they were a traditional Japanese ingredient made from konjac yam. Intrigued, I decided to purchase a bundle and take them home to my mother.

When I showed her the noodles, she smiled and told me that she had a special recipe for Pork Shirataki that she had learned from her own mother. She began to instruct me on how to prepare the dish, and as I followed her every step, I could feel a sense of pride and tradition washing over me.

The first step was to boil the shirataki noodles to remove their unique smell. As they simmered in the pot, I watched as the water turned cloudy and the noodles softened. My mother then taught me how to slice the pork into thin strips and marinate them in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and sugar.

Once the noodles were ready, we drained them and added them to the pork, along with some sliced vegetables like shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and green onions. The fragrant aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew that this dish would become a family favorite.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the Pork Shirataki and was immediately transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before. The chewy noodles paired perfectly with the tender pork and crunchy vegetables, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying.

From that day on, Pork Shirataki became a staple in our household. I would often make it for my family and friends, sharing the recipe with anyone who would listen. Over the years, I have continued to refine the dish, adding my own personal touch with each preparation.

I have shared this recipe with my grandchildren, passing down the tradition that was started so many years ago. As I see them now, gathered around the table, enjoying the Pork Shirataki that I have prepared for them, I feel a sense of pride and contentment knowing that this dish will continue to be a part of our family for generations to come.

Every time I make Pork Shirataki, I am reminded of that fateful day at the market when I discovered this recipe. It has become more than just a dish to me – it is a symbol of my heritage, my family, and the love that I put into every meal that I create. And for that, I am forever grateful.