Name: Irresistibly Flavorful Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 package Dried Mung Bean Vermicelli Noodles (Can swap with sweet potato vermicelli for a different flavor.); 2 tablespoons Peanut Oil (or Vegetable Oil); 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger (Use fresh for best flavor.); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Opt for fresh for best taste.); 2 stalks Sliced Green Onions (Use just the green tops for a subtle flavor.); 0.5 pound Ground Pork (Other meat or plant-based alternatives can be used.); 2 tablespoons Doubanjiang (Seek out Pixian brand for best taste.); 0.5 cup Chicken Broth (or Water); 1 tablespoon Light Soy Sauce (Can swap with tamari for gluten-free.); 1 teaspoon Dark Soy Sauce (Can replace with extra light soy sauce if needed.); 1 tablespoon Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry, can omit for non-alcoholic.); 1 teaspoon Sugar (Honey can be used as a substitute.)

While rummaging through my pantry the other day, I stumbled upon a forgotten package of mung bean vermicelli noodles. It sparked a craving for something delicious yet simple, leading me to recreate my beloved Ma Yi Shang Shu, or Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork. In just 20 minutes, this vibrant Sichuan dish transforms ordinary ingredients into a comforting meal that is both quick to prepare and gluten-free adaptable. With an aromatic blend of spices, tender pork, and silky noodles, it’s perfect for busy weekdays when time is tight. Not only does this recipe offer a burst of flavor, but it’s also a fantastic way to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to elevate your dinner game and see how easy it is to whip up this delightful dish?

Why is this recipe so beloved?

Quick preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can create a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Flavor-packed: The rich blend of doubanjiang, ginger, and garlic gives each bite a burst of authentic Sichuan flavor, making your taste buds dance with delight.

Customizable: Feel free to swap ground pork for beef, or add colorful vegetables like bell peppers for an extra nutrition boost.

Gluten-free options: Easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets by using tamari or sweet potato vermicelli, so everyone can enjoy it!

Crowd-pleasing: Impress family and friends with a vibrant dish that looks and tastes gourmet, all while using pantry staples. Don’t forget to serve it over steamed rice for an extra wholesome touch! Check out my other quick recipes like Yaki Udon Stir and Turkey Teriyaki Stir for more delightful meal ideas.

Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork Ingredients

For the Noodles
• Dried Mung Bean Vermicelli Noodles – The main ingredient; offers a soft, silky texture once cooked. Can swap with sweet potato vermicelli for a different flavor.

For the Stir-Fry
• Peanut Oil (or Vegetable Oil) – A mild cooking oil; choose based on personal preference to enhance the dish.
• Minced Ginger – Provides warmth and spice; fresh ginger results in the most vibrant flavor.
• Minced Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic essence; opt for fresh garlic for the best taste.
• Sliced Green Onions – Adds color and a burst of freshness; consider using just the green tops for a subtle onion taste.
• Ground Pork – The primary protein that brings richness; other meat or plant-based alternatives work as substitutes.

For the Sauce
• Doubanjiang (Broad Bean Paste) – Critical for authentic Sichuan flavor; seek out Pixian brand for the best taste.
• Chicken Broth (or Water) – The liquid base adds depth of flavor; using broth is encouraged for enhanced savoriness.
• Light Soy Sauce – Contributes saltiness; swap with tamari to keep this dish gluten-free.
• Dark Soy Sauce – Adds color and umami flavor; extra light soy sauce can replace it if needed.
• Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry) – Elevates flavor complexity; can omit if you prefer a non-alcoholic dish.
• Sugar – Balances the savory flavor profile; honey can be a great substitute or simply omit for less sweetness.

Embrace this easy and flavorful Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork recipe, while enjoying the delightful twists you can make along the way!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork

Step 1: Soak the Noodles
Begin by soaking the dried mung bean vermicelli noodles in a large bowl of hot water for about 15 minutes. This will soften them and prepare them for stir-frying. Once they are soft, drain the noodles, toss them lightly with a bit of oil to prevent sticking, and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: doubanjiang, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, chicken broth, and sugar. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and everything is blended smoothly. Set the sauce mixture aside as it will add a delightful depth of flavor to the Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a nonstick skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced ginger, garlic, and sliced green onions, sautéing them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. You should see the garlic turning golden, releasing a beautiful aroma that signals the perfect base for your stir-fry.

Step 4: Cook the Pork
Add the ground pork to the skillet and cook for approximately 2 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s browned and no longer pink. The pork should be well-cooked and starting to caramelize slightly, giving it a lovely texture and flavor that will meld beautifully with the noodles.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Noodles
Stir in the prepared doubanjiang sauce, coating the cooked pork evenly for 1 minute. Then, add the soaked vermicelli noodles to the skillet followed by the remaining chicken broth. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the noodles absorb all those vibrant flavors and are heated through.

Step 6: Simmer the Dish
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on medium-low heat. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures all ingredients are heated thoroughly. You’ll know it’s ready to uncover when you catch a rich aroma wafting from the pan.

Step 7: Check Noodle Doneness
After simmering, remove the lid and give everything a good stir. Check the texture of the noodles; they should be tender and fully cooked, with most of the liquid evaporated. If needed, continue to cook uncovered for about 1 more minute, stirring to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork to serving plates. Enjoy this delicious, hearty meal hot, preferably over a bed of steamed rice for added satisfaction. The blend of flavors and textures will surely impress family or guests alike.

Expert Tips for Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork

Ingredient Freshness: Use the freshest garlic and ginger for the best flavor impact in your stir fry—stale ingredients can dull the vibrant taste.
Nonstick Skillet: A nonstick skillet works wonders to prevent the starchy noodles from sticking together. It’s a simple step that makes for easy cleanup!
High Heat Cooking: While home cooks can use medium heat, a traditional wok benefits from high heat. This brings out deeper flavors but requires more oil; balance as you prefer!
Customize It: Don’t hesitate to swap ground pork for ground beef or a meat alternative. You can also add vegetables for color and nutrition—bell peppers and carrots work well!
Taste Test: Always taste your sauce mixture before adding it to the stir fry. Adjust soy sauce, sugar, or doubanjiang based on your flavor preferences to enhance your Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork.

What to Serve with Quick & Flavorful Ma Yi Shang Shu

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this savory dish with delightful sides that complement its robust flavors.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture balances the stir-fried vermicelli and absorbs its flavorful sauce, creating a comforting plate.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch counters the noodles’ softness, adding a burst of freshness. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a zesty kick.
Miso Soup: This warm, umami-rich soup brings depth to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience with its soothing warmth.
Garlic Green Beans: The sautéed green beans add a slight bite and a complementary garlic flavor, harmonizing beautifully with the spices in the vermicelli.
Chili Oil Drizzle: For those who love an extra kick, a drizzle of chili oil adds a delightful spiciness that engages the palate and enhances every bite.
Chrysanthemum Tea: A herbal drink that refreshes and cleanses the palate, providing a soothing contrast to the rich, savory elements of the dish.
Sesame Noodles: Pairing with cold sesame noodles creates a mix of textures and flavors. Their nuttiness and slight sweetness balance the savory notes of the stir-fried vermicelli perfectly.
Fried Spring Rolls: These crispy, savory bites offer a satisfying crunch and can provide a varied flavor profile to accompany the dish and add festive flair to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork are perfect for busy cooks who love to meal prep! You can soak the vermicelli noodles and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers. Simply refrigerate the noodles to maintain their texture, while the sauce can sit snugly in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. When it’s time to cook, sauté the ginger, garlic, and green onions, then add the prepped pork and sauce mixture. Finally, stir in the noodles and chicken broth, cooking until everything is heated through. This way, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, saving you valuable time during hectic weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork

Fridge: Store any leftover Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a nonstick skillet or microwave until heated through.

Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Place in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent the noodles from drying out.

Texture Note: While leftovers can be delicious, keep in mind the noodles may lose some of their original texture after freezing and reheating.

Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork Variations

Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own by exploring these exciting variations!

Dairy-Free: Simply omit any dairy products that may accompany the dish, ensuring the recipe remains light and flavorful for a dairy-free meal.
Vegetarian Twist: Replace ground pork with a plant-based ground meat alternative or crumbled tofu for a delicious and satisfying vegetarian option.
Add Veggies: Amp up the nutrition by tossing in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas just before adding the noodles—colorful vegetables not only taste great but also make the dish visually appealing.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add extra doubanjiang or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauté—enjoy the fiery flavors igniting your palate!
Noodle Substitutes: Swap mung bean vermicelli with sweet potato noodles for a different texture and flavor. This adds a delightful twist while keeping it gluten-free.
Flavorful Broth: Substitute chicken broth with homemade vegetable broth for a richer depth of flavor, ideal for a vegetarian variant.
Citrus Zing: A splash of lime or lemon juice added right before serving will brighten up the dish, highlighting all those delicious flavors wonderfully.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this stir fry over a bed of steamed rice or with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast, balancing flavors perfectly—just like in my other simple recipes such as Broccoli Mushroom Stir and Crispy Salmon Bites with Zesty Dip as great accompaniments!

Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork Recipe FAQs

What type of noodles should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! The best choice is dried mung bean vermicelli noodles, which yield a soft and silky texture once cooked. If you can’t find these, you can substitute with sweet potato vermicelli for a different flavor twist that is also gluten-free!

How should I store leftover Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a nonstick skillet or microwave until heated through. For the best results, add a splash of water when reheating to keep the noodles from drying out.

Can I freeze Stir Fried Vermicelli with Pork?
Certainly! This dish is freezer-friendly. You can freeze it for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on low heat, adding a bit of water if needed to keep the noodles moist.

What should I do if my noodles are too sticky during cooking?
No worries! If your noodles become sticky, you can simply add a little more peanut oil to the skillet while stirring. Also, make sure to toss the drained noodles in oil prior to cooking, which helps maintain a smooth texture. Additionally, using a nonstick skillet can greatly help prevent sticking.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Very much so! To adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet, use tamari instead of light soy sauce and ensure the doubanjiang is gluten-free as well. As for the noodles, stick with mung bean vermicelli or sweet potato vermicelli, both of which are naturally gluten-free!

How can I adjust the spice level in this dish?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of doubanjiang you add. Alternatively, you can also add a little while cooking and taste as you go. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to increase the heat, consider topping your dish with some sliced fresh chili peppers or a drizzle of chili oil before serving for an extra kick!