Spicy Szechuan Pork with Green Beans
Bold, fiery, and packed with flavor this Spicy Szechuan Pork with Green Beans is a must-try for lovers of spicy dishes! Tender pork and crisp green beans are stir-fried in a savory, garlicky Szechuan sauce with the perfect balance of heat and umami. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Sichuan cuisine, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something bold and satisfying.
Ingredients
- For the Pork:
- 1 lb (450 g) pork tenderloin or pork shoulder, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp chili paste (Sambal Oelek or similar)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp water
- For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1–2 tsp Szechuan peppercorns (crushed)
- 2–3 dried red chilies (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 scallions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, combine pork slices with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well and let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, chili paste, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir until smooth and set aside.
- Cook the Pork: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir-fry pork for 2–3 minutes until browned and nearly cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same wok, add remaining oil. Add garlic, ginger, Szechuan peppercorns, and dried chilies. Stir-fry 30 seconds until fragrant. Add green beans and stir-fry 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Combine Pork and Sauce: Return pork to the wok. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well to coat everything. Cook for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and pork is fully cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with sliced scallions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.