String Beans with Pork from Din Tai Fung features tender pork stir-fried with vibrant, crisp string beans in a savory garlic sauce, delivering a flavorful and satisfying dish with a harmonious blend of textures.
Equipments
- Wok
- Wok spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
- Colander
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) pork shoulder or pork loin
- 1/2 lb (225g) string beans
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt (to taste)
Choosing pork shoulder or pork loin is key, as these cuts provide the right balance of tenderness and flavor for this dish. Fresh string beans should be vibrant green and crisp to enhance texture. Garlic should be finely minced to evenly infuse its aroma into the sauce. Use Shaoxing wine to add authentic depth, but you can substitute with dry sherry if unavailable. Your String Beans with Pork from Din Tai Fung copycat menu will shine with these ingredient choices, creating a perfect harmony of savory and fresh flavors.
Instructions
- Slice pork thinly and marinate with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, white pepper, and a pinch of salt for 10–15 minutes.
- Trim string beans and cut into 2-inch pieces.
- Mince garlic.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok over medium-high heat; add string beans and stir-fry until blistered and just tender. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining oil to the wok; stir-fry pork until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Lower heat, add garlic, and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Return pork and string beans to wok; add oyster sauce and sugar. Toss to combine.
- Stir-fry until evenly coated and heated through; adjust salt to taste.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
String Beans with Pork from Din Tai Fung copycat recipe calls for pork shoulder or loin paired with crisp string beans sauteed in a garlic-infused savory sauce. You can substitute pork shoulder with chicken breast or firm tofu for a leaner or vegetarian version, adjusting cooking time accordingly. If Shaoxing wine is unavailable, dry sherry or a splash of rice vinegar can provide a similar depth of flavor. Fresh string beans are preferred, but frozen can be used in a pinch--just be sure to thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture. Balancing the soy sauce and oyster sauce will allow you to tailor the dish's saltiness to your personal taste.
Tips
Make sure to slice the pork thinly for quick, even cooking and to allow the marinade to penetrate fully, enhancing flavor. When stir-frying string beans, cook them until they are blistered but still crisp to maintain their texture and vibrant color. Use medium-high heat to sear quickly, preventing the pork from becoming tough or dry. Your timing for adding garlic is crucial--cook it until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness in the final dish.
Nutritions
String Beans with Pork from Din Tai Fung provides a balanced combination of macronutrients, with lean pork supplying high-quality protein essential for muscle maintenance and repair. String beans contribute dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that support immune function and overall health. The use of garlic and sauces like soy and oyster sauce adds flavor while contributing small amounts of micronutrients and sodium, so you should monitor your intake if watching sodium levels. This dish offers a nutritious option when paired with a controlled portion size and complemented by whole grains or vegetables.
Storage
Store leftover String Beans with Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation and sogginess. Reheat thoroughly in a wok or microwave before serving to preserve the texture of the pork and crispness of the string beans.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute pork shoulder with chicken breast or firm tofu for a lighter or vegetarian option. Swap Shaoxing wine with dry sherry or a splash of rice vinegar to maintain acidity in the marinade. For extra depth, try adding a teaspoon of fermented black beans or chili flakes during the stir-fry step. Using a high-heat oil like peanut oil instead of vegetable oil can enhance the dish's aroma and flavor stability.
Allergies
This dish contains soy sauce and oyster sauce, both common allergens due to soy and shellfish components, which may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Pork can also cause allergies, although less common, and garlic may lead to hypersensitivity in some people. Your best option is to verify ingredient labels and avoid this dish if you have known allergies to soy, shellfish, or garlic.
Why this recipe?
String Beans with Pork from Din Tai Fung is favored for its perfect balance of tender pork and crisp string beans cooked with a savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, and chili, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. The fresh ingredients and expert stir-frying technique result in a dish with a delightful texture and intense umami taste that appeals to many palates. Making a copycat version allows you to enjoy this iconic Taiwanese restaurant experience at home, controlling the freshness and seasoning to suit your preferences. This dish is worth trying for anyone seeking an authentic, comforting meal that highlights the quality and simplicity of traditional Chinese cooking.