If you're searching for the best Chinese pork recipes that are actually easy to make at home, you've found them. These 5 authentic dishes deliver restaurant-quality flavor with straightforward instructions using ingredients you likely have in your pantry. No fancy equipment needed—just a wok or regular skillet and these proven techniques.
Top 5 Chinese Pork Recipes You'll Make Again and Again
Recipe | Prep Time | Cook Time | Difficulty | Key Flavor Profile |
---|---|---|---|---|
Shaoxing-Style Braised Pork | 15 min | 75 min | Intermediate | Sweet-savory with aromatic spices |
Pork Stir-Fry with Peppers | 10 min | 10 min | Beginner | Fish-fragrant (sweet, sour, spicy) |
Pork Fried Rice | 5 min | 10 min | Beginner | Umami-rich with subtle sweetness |
Steamed Pork Belly | 20 min | 60 min | Intermediate | Savory with pickled vegetable notes |
Soy-Ginger Pork Noodles | 5 min | 10 min | Beginner | Savory with ginger warmth |
1. Shaoxing-Style Braised Pork (Hong Shao Rou)
This Shanghai classic features fork-tender pork belly in a rich, glossy sauce—perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress.
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Best For: Weekend cooking, dinner parties
- Pro Tip: Blanch pork belly chunks for 5 minutes first to remove excess fat

2. Chinese Pork Stir-Fry with Peppers (Yu Xiang Rou Si)
The "fish fragrance" name refers to the flavor profile (not actual fish)—ready in 20 minutes with common ingredients.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Best For: Weeknight dinners, beginner cooks
- Pro Tip: Marinate pork with 1 tsp cornstarch for tender results

3. Sweet and Savory Chinese Pork Fried Rice
The ultimate way to use leftover rice and pork—ready in 15 minutes with pantry staples.
- Total Time: 15-20 minutes
- Best For: Leftover transformation, quick meals
- Pro Tip: Use cold rice for perfect non-sticky texture

4. Cantonese Steamed Pork Belly with Preserved Vegetables
A comforting Guangdong specialty that's surprisingly simple to make at home.
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Best For: Comfort food lovers, authentic Chinese meals
- Pro Tip: Soak preserved greens 10 minutes to reduce saltiness

5. Soy-Ginger Pork Noodles in 15 Minutes
Dinner ready before takeout could arrive—with better flavor and half the cost.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Best For: Busy weeknights, quick lunches
- Pro Tip: Bloom ginger in cold oil first for maximum flavor extraction

What Cut of Pork Works Best for Chinese Dishes?
For beginners: Pork shoulder (butt) is your most forgiving option—its marbling keeps meat tender during high-heat cooking. For stir-fries, cut against the grain into thin slices. Ground pork works well for fried rice and noodle dishes.
Food Safety Note: Always cook pork to 145°F internal temperature followed by 3-minute rest for safe, juicy results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the easiest Chinese pork recipe for beginners?
Pork stir-fry with peppers (Yu Xiang Rou Si) is the easiest authentic Chinese pork dish. With just 20 minutes total time and common ingredients like bell peppers, soy sauce, and garlic, it's perfect for first-time cooks. The key is marinating the pork with cornstarch first to keep it tender.
Can I make these recipes without a wok?
Absolutely! A regular 12-inch skillet works perfectly for all these recipes. The secret isn't the equipment but the high heat and proper technique: make sure your pan is properly preheated before adding ingredients, and don't overcrowd it (cook in batches if needed).
What if I can't find Shaoxing wine?
Dry sherry is the best substitute (use same amount). For alcohol-free cooking, replace with 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1 tsp sugar per 1/4 cup wine needed. Avoid using regular cooking wine—it's too salty and lacks authentic flavor.
How do I prevent greasy braised pork?
Blanch pork belly in boiling water for 5 minutes first to render excess fat, then rinse. During braising, skim fat from the sauce surface every 20 minutes. Using thick-cut pork belly with visible marbling (not pure fat) also helps achieve perfect texture.