This Honey Garlic Pork Rice Bowl is a tasty mix of sweet and savory. The juicy pork, covered in a sticky honey garlic sauce, pairs perfectly with fluffy rice!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish! Pork tenderloin is lean and cooks quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives fantastic flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can work in a pinch (1/8 teaspoon per clove), but fresh is always best.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and depth. Maple syrup can be a great substitute if you prefer something different or need a vegan option.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, use tamari sauce instead. Low-sodium soy sauce is a good choice if you’re watching your salt intake.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust this based on your spice preference! You can use fresh chili or even omit it for a milder dish.
How Can I Ensure the Pork is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork correctly is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet; this helps achieve a nice brown on the pork quickly.
- Cook until the pork is browned on all sides (about 4-5 minutes). Avoid crowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness – pork should reach 145°F (63°C).
Following these steps will give you tender and juicy pork that’s full of flavor!
How to Make Honey Garlic Pork Rice Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup scallions, chopped (green parts only)
For Serving:
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Honey Garlic Pork Rice Bowl takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pork:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bite-sized pieces of pork. Sauté the pork pieces until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes. After browning, carefully remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 30 seconds, stirring often, until they become fragrant. This step adds amazing flavor to your dish, so don’t skip it!
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, it’s time to make the sauce. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes into the skillet with the garlic and ginger. Mix everything well so the ingredients combine nicely. Let this simmer for a minute to get the flavors dancing!
4. Combine and Cook:
Return the browned pork to the skillet. Carefully stir to coat the meat with the flavorful sauce. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 3-4 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the pork is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped scallions for a fresh touch. Serve the sweet and savory honey garlic pork over a bed of cooked rice. If you like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for a little extra crunch. Enjoy each delicious bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is great for this recipe, you can substitute it with pork shoulder, pork loin, or even diced chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as some cuts may take longer or shorter to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can work well in this recipe. You can even use brown sugar mixed with a little water for a different flavor profile, just be sure to adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
