Tasty Taiwan-Ease Pork Salad

Taiwan-Ease Pork Salad Recipe with Italian Dressing and Fresh Ginger

Region / culture: Taiwan | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 6 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Tasty Taiwan-Ease Pork Salad is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender pork with a crunchy salad mix. The dressing adds a tangy and spicy kick to the dish, making it a perfect meal for lunch or dinner.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Taiwanese flavors and ingredients, with a modern twist. The combination of pork, mixed greens, and peanuts creates a unique and tasty salad that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

1.25 lb (567 g) boneless pork top sirloin steak, cut 1 inch thick
8 cups mixed lettuce greens, such as romaine, radicchio, endive
1.5 cups packaged shredded carrots
0.5 cup chopped unsalted dry roasted peanuts

Dressing

0.5 cup prepared italian dressing
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
0.25 tsp crushed red pepper

How to prepare

In a small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients and whisk until blended. Trim the fat from the pork steak.
Cut the steak lengthwise in half and then crosswise into 0.25 inch thick strips.
In a medium bowl, combine the pork and dressing mixture. Toss to coat.
Let it stand for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, carrots, and peanuts. Toss well.
Arrange the mixture on a platter.
In a wok or large nonstick skillet, heat 2 tbsp of the dressing mixture over medium-high heat until hot.
Add the pork, half at a time, and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes or until the outside surface is no longer pink.
Arrange the pork on top of the salad and drizzle the remaining dressing mixture over the salad.
Tip: Beef top sirloin steak may be substituted for pork flank or top round steak.

Variations

Substitute the pork with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Add sliced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor.
Use a different type of nut, such as almonds or cashews, instead of peanuts.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the pork into thin strips to ensure quick and even cooking.

- Marinating the pork in the dressing mixture helps to infuse the meat with flavor.

- Be sure to toss the salad well to evenly distribute the dressing and toppings.

- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Tasty Taiwan-Ease Pork Salad as a main dish for lunch or dinner. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-fry the pork quickly over high heat to ensure that it stays tender and juicy.

- Toss the salad ingredients well to evenly coat them with the dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of mixed greens or lettuce in place of endive.

- Substitute the Italian dressing with a vinaigrette or sesame dressing.

- Replace the peanuts with almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the pork in the dressing mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook. The salad ingredients can also be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the salad on a large platter and top it with the stir-fried pork for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional peanuts for added texture and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This Tasty Taiwan-Ease Pork Salad pairs well with a light and refreshing drink, such as green tea or a fruity iced tea. For a complete meal, serve it with steamed rice or noodles.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the pork in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or enjoy it cold as a salad topping.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 30 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and soy sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This Tasty Taiwan-Ease Pork Salad is a balanced meal 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

This Tasty Taiwan-Ease Pork Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a mix of tender pork, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it for a light and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a warm summer day, and I was wandering through the bustling streets of Taipei, Taiwan. The air was filled with the tantalizing aromas of sizzling meats and fragrant spices. I stumbled upon a small food stall tucked away in a corner, where a kind old woman was busy preparing a dish that caught my eye.

I watched in awe as she expertly sliced thin strips of succulent pork and marinated them in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, and garlic. She then tossed the pork with an assortment of fresh vegetables, herbs, and crunchy peanuts. The end result was a vibrant and aromatic salad that looked absolutely divine.

I couldn't help but approach the old woman and ask her about the recipe. She smiled warmly and beckoned me closer. In broken English, she explained to me the ingredients and steps involved in making the dish. I scribbled down notes in my notebook, eager to recreate the recipe at home.

Back in my humble kitchen, I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work. I marinated the pork as instructed, letting it soak up all the delicious flavors. I then stir-fried the meat until it was perfectly cooked and juicy. I tossed it with crisp lettuce, cucumber, cilantro, and a generous handful of peanuts. A drizzle of tangy dressing made with soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar brought everything together.

As I took my first bite of the Taiwan-Ease Pork Salad, I was transported back to the bustling streets of Taipei. The flavors were bold and complex, with the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy. The crunch of the peanuts added a delightful texture, while the fresh herbs lent a burst of freshness. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

I couldn't wait to share this new recipe with my family and friends. They were equally enamored by the dish and marveled at how something so simple could be so incredibly delicious. I shared with them the story of how I learned the recipe from the kind old woman in Taipei, and they were amazed by the journey that led me to discover this culinary gem.

Over the years, I have made the Taiwan-Ease Pork Salad countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have added extra vegetables, experimented with different herbs and spices, and even tried using different cuts of meat. But no matter how I adapt the recipe, the essence of the dish remains the same – a celebration of the vibrant flavors and textures of Taiwanese cuisine.

I have since passed down the recipe to my children and grandchildren, hoping that they too will be inspired by the flavors of Taiwan. As I watch them prepare the dish with the same enthusiasm and passion that I once had, I am reminded of the joy that cooking brings – the joy of discovering new flavors, sharing meals with loved ones, and creating lasting memories through food.

The Taiwan-Ease Pork Salad will always hold a special place in my heart, not just for its delicious taste, but for the journey of discovery and connection that it represents. It is a reminder of the beauty of food and the power it has to bring people together, no matter where they come from. And for that, I am eternally grateful.