Stir-Fried Pork with Fermented Black Bean and Chili Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A savory and spicy Chinese-style stir-fry featuring tender pork and the bold flavor of fermented black beans, balanced by fresh chili heat. This chinese-inspired pork ready in about 22 minutes blends pork tenderloin, fermented black beans, thinly sliced red chili peppers into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 12 min Serves 3 Chinese cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Slice 300 g pork tenderloin into thin strips about 1/4 inch wide and toss with 1 tsp cornstarch to lightly coat.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok over high heat until shimmering; add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add the pork strips and stir-fry quickly for 3-4 minutes until the edges start to brown.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp fermented black beans (lightly rinsed), 2 thinly sliced red chili peppers, and 2 tbsp soy sauce; cook for 1 minute.
  5. Step 5: Pour in 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 50 ml water, and 1 tsp sugar; stir and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the pork.
  6. Step 6: Sprinkle 2 chopped scallions on top, toss briefly, and serve hot with steamed rice.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Pork with Fermented Black Bean and Chili Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 22 minutes (10 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Stir-Fried Pork with Fermented Black Bean and Chili Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Stir-Fried Pork with Fermented Black Bean and Chili Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Stir-Fried Pork with Fermented Black Bean and Chili Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Stir-Fried Pork with Fermented Black Bean and Chili Sauce?

Chinese pork like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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