How to sauté pork with capsicum
Total cooking time | 50 minutes |
Level | Intermediate |
Number of servings | 6 |
Sautéed pork pieces with capsicum, also known as pork stir-fry with bell peppers, is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chunks of pork with the vibrant flavors of bell peppers. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrition. In this recipe, we will explore the step-by-step process of creating this delectable recipe, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking techniques that will elevate this dish to restaurant-quality.
I. Ingredients and Preparation:
Pork Selection : The foundation of any great sautéed pork with capsicum dish is, of course, the pork itself. It's crucial to choose the right cut of pork for this recipe. Boneless pork loin or pork tenderloin works exceptionally well because of its tenderness and ability to absorb flavors. You'll want to cut the pork into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
Bell Peppers : Bell peppers come in a variety of colors, such as red, green, yellow, and orange. For a visually appealing dish, consider using a mix of colors. The peppers should be fresh, firm, and free from blemishes. Wash them thoroughly, remove the seeds, and cut them into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. The peppers not only add color but also a sweet, slightly tangy flavor to the dish.
Aromatics : To infuse the pork and bell peppers with flavor, you'll need aromatics like garlic and ginger. Fresh garlic cloves should be minced or finely chopped, while ginger can be peeled and grated. These aromatic ingredients will add depth and complexity to the overall taste.
Sauce and Seasonings : The sauce is where the magic happens in this dish. You'll need a combination of soy sauce, tomato sauce, and sesame oil for a rich, savory base. To balance the flavors and add a hint of sweetness, include a touch of brown sugar or honey. A pinch of salt and ground black pepper should be added to taste. Additionally, if you prefer some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers.
Other Ingredients : To complete the dish, you'll need some vegetable oil for sautéing, and you can garnish with fresh cilantro leaves or green onions for a burst of freshness and color.
II. Cooking Process :
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let's dive into the cooking process, which involves several essential steps to achieve a perfectly sautéed pork with capsicum dish.
Cooking the Pork : Pressure cook the pork by adding salt, pepper, crushed ginger and garlic. Allow the pressure to release naturally. Once cooked, allow the pork to cool and take the pork pieces and cut them lengthwise. Keep aside.
Preparing the Capsicum : While the pork is being cooked, you can prepare the bell peppers. Wash and cut them into thin strips or bite-sized pieces, as mentioned earlier. It's essential to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking because stir-frying happens quickly, and you won't have time to chop ingredients while at the stove.
Searing the Pork : Heat a wok or a large skillet over high heat. Add vegetable oil and allow it to get hot but not smoking. Add the pork to the hot wok or skillet and spread it out in a single layer. Add tomato sauce, soy sauce, pepper powder to the wok. Allow the pork to sear for a minute or two on one side without stirring to develop a nice caramelized crust. Then, flip the pork pieces to sear the other side.
Sautéing the Capsicum : In the same wok or skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the prepared bell peppers and stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and become slightly charred at the edges. The high heat will give them a delightful smoky flavor. Be sure to keep the peppers moving to prevent them from burning.
Combining and Simmering : Mix everything together so that the pork and capsicum are evenly distributed. At this point, you can add a touch of water or chicken broth to create a sauce that will further infuse the dish with flavor and prevent it from drying out. Allow the dish to simmer for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is fully cooked and the peppers are tender-crisp. The sauce should thicken slightly during this time.
Final Garnish : Just before serving, garnish your sautéed pork with capsicum with fresh cilantro leaves or chopped green onions. These fresh herbs not only add a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
III. Presentation and Serving :
When it comes to serving sautéed pork pieces with capsicum, presentation is key. This visually appealing dish is best served hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the succulent pork create an enticing visual contrast against the neutral backdrop of rice or noodles.
To make the dish even more visually appealing, consider arranging the stir-fried pork and capsicum in the center of the plate and drizzling a bit of the savory sauce around the edges. This not only enhances the presentation but also ensures that every bite is infused with the delicious flavors of the sauce.
Don't forget to provide some extra sauce on the side for those who prefer a saucier dish. Additionally, you can offer a small bowl of soy sauce with sliced chili peppers for those who like a bit of extra heat.
Sautéed pork pieces with capsicum is a delightful dish that combines the tender goodness of pork with the vibrant, crisp texture of bell peppers. It's a harmonious blend of flavors and colors that can elevate any meal, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
By following the steps outlined here, you can master the art of making this dish at home. From selecting the right ingredients to perfecting the cooking techniques, you now have all the knowledge you need to create a restaurant-quality sautéed pork with capsicum that will impress your family and friends.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Enjoy your sautéed pork pieces with capsicum, and savor every bite of this delectable masterpiece.
Equipment's Used :
Wok or skillet
Pressure cooker
Knife
Wooden spatula
Spoon
Fork - to serve
Ingredients
Boneless pork loin or pork tenderloin, cut into large pieces - 450 g
Bell pepper, thinly sliced or cut into strips - 1
Onion, chopped - 1
Dry red chillies - 2
Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
Tomato sauce - 2 tablespoon
2 teaspoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
Curry leaves - 1 sprig
1 teaspoon brown sugar (or honey)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cilantro leaves - to garnish
Method of preparation
Take a pressure cooker and add the cleaned pork cubes to it.
Add ginger, garlic, curry leaves salt and pepper to the pressure cooker.
Pressure cook the pork (wait for 1 whistle in medium flame, then keep in flame low for 10 minutes)
Once the pork is cooked, allow the pressure to release naturally.
When the pork pieces are cooled, cut them lengthwise using a knife.
Heat oil in a wok or skillet and add chopped onions to it.
Add dry red chillies, salt and sauté for a minute.
When the onion changes it's color, add tomato sauce, soy sauce, and honey.
Now add pressure cooked pork and sauté well with onion and sauces.
Stir the pork pieces, such that the sauces gets evenly coated on all sides.
When pork pieces becomes golden brown in color, add the chopped capsicum to the skillet or wok.
Add the prepared bell peppers and stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and become slightly charred at the edges.
Mix everything together so that the pork and capsicum are evenly distributed. At this point, you can add a touch of water if you feel that the pork became dry.
Transfer the sautéed pork pieces with capsicum to a serving plate and garnish the curry with chopped cilantro leaves to enrich the flavors of the dish.
You can serve hot with rice, noodles, etc.