In our ongoing Budget-Friendly Recipes series, we’re tackling a dinner classic that’s both quick to prepare and easy on the wallet: Pork Stir-Fry.
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish will surely become a favorite.
Let’s dive into how to make this delicious meal for under $12.
Why Pork in Stir-Fry?
Pork is a versatile and often budget-friendly protein that works exceptionally well in stir-fry dishes.
Cuts like pork loin or shoulder are usually more affordable than other types of meat, making them a great option for budget-conscious meals. Additionally, pork’s tender texture and ability to absorb flavors make it an excellent choice for quick-cooking methods like stir-frying.
Whether you’re using a simple soy sauce-based marinade or a more complex sauce, pork delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal every time.
Budget-Friendly Pork Stir-Fry
This quick stir-fry combines the succulent flavors of pork with the crunch of fresh vegetables, all tied together with a savory soy sauce.
It’s a culinary symphony of textures and flavors that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight dinner, or a simple yet delicious dish to impress guests, this pork stir-fry has got you covered.
Best of all, it’s budget-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home without breaking the bank.
- Note: Our cost estimation is based on average prices in the US, but prices will vary depending on your location. Our goal is to help you find ingredients that are generally more affordable!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. pork loin, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Total cost: Around $12. Serves 4.
Pork Stir-Fry Cooking Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the thinly sliced pork loin to the skillet and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the thinly sliced onion, minced garlic, sliced bell pepper, and julienned carrot until softened.
- Return the cooked pork to the skillet and add the soy sauce, stirring until everything is well mixed and heated through.
Serve hot, and enjoy this quick and delicious meal!
Want to Make It Even More Filling? Add Rice or Noodles:
If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, consider serving this Pork Stir-Fry over a bed of steamed rice or cooked noodles.
Both options are excellent for soaking up the savory sauce and adding a satisfying, hearty element to the dish. Rice offers a neutral backdrop that allows the flavors of the stir-fry to shine, while noodles, such as Udon or rice noodles, add an extra layer of texture.
Prepare your choice of rice or noodles according to package instructions and serve the stir-fry on top for a complete and filling meal.
Craving Variety? This Dish Has You Covered:
One of the best things about this Pork Stir-Fry is its adaptability. If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to do so without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
- Meat Options: While pork is the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute it with other cuts of meat like chicken, beef, or even shrimp. Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
- Vegan-Friendly: Tofu is an excellent substitute for pork if you’re following a plant-based diet. It absorbs flavors well and offers a different, yet delightful, texture.
- Carb Choices: While rice and noodles are classic bases for stir-fries, you can also opt for other grains like quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Additional Savings & Hot Tips
- Bulk Buying: Consider buying pork loin when it’s on sale and freezing it in portions for future meals. This can significantly reduce the cost per serving.
- Versatile Veggies: Feel free to swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand or prefer. Using vegetables you already have in your fridge not only adds variety, but also cuts the cost of the meal.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal. Cooking in bulk can also save you time and money in the long run.
- Sauce Savings: If you frequently make stir-fries or Asian-inspired dishes, consider buying soy sauce and other staple ingredients in larger quantities to benefit from bulk pricing.
- Leftover Magic: Have some leftover cooked rice or noodles? Use them as the base for this stir-fry to repurpose leftovers and save money.
Final Thoughts
This Pork Stir-Fry is a quick and budget-friendly option that’s perfect for any night of the week.
It offers a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Stay tuned for more budget-friendly recipes, and until next time, happy cooking and happy saving!
