oyster sauce – Page 2 – yummy food share

Savory Glazed Pork Chops

2026-01-07

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping main course that is secretly simple to make, you have come to the right place. This recipe for savory glazed pork chops will become your new go-to for a delicious, satisfying meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Ready in about an hour, this dish is wonderfully beginner-friendly. We’ll use a classic cooking technique of pan-frying followed by a quick braise, which ensures the pork chops become incredibly tender and juicy. The flavor is a beautiful balance of savory soy sauce, a hint of sweetness from sugar, and a warm, aromatic note from ginger and star anise. It’s a comforting, deeply flavorful dish that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, promising a restaurant-quality meal made right at home. Before you start, let’s gather all our ingredients. The list is simple, and many items are probably already in your pantry. For anything you don’t have, I’ve included some easy-to-find substitutions. For the Pork: 4 bone-in pork loin chops, about 1-inch thick (this is the cut often called “da pai” or “big chops”) 1 tablespoon light soy sauce 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon white pepper For Braising and the Glaze: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or any neutral cooking oil 3 scallions, cut into 2-inch lengths 4 cloves garlic, lightly smashed 3 thick slices of fresh ginger 2 whole star anise 2 tablespoons light soy sauce 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 tablespoon white sugar Hot water, enough to nearly cover the chops Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish A Few Notes on Ingredients: Pork Chops: Bone-in loin chops are ideal as the bone adds extra flavor during cooking. If you can only find boneless, they will work too, but you may need to reduce the braising time…

Savory Pork and Wood Ear Stir Fry

2026-01-06

If you’re on the hunt for a weeknight meal that punches way above its weight in flavor and texture, you’ve just found your new favorite. This stir-fry is a delightful introduction to the magic of simple, well-executed home cooking. It’s a dish I turn to again and again because it comes together in under an hour, requires no special culinary degrees, and delivers a taste that is both comforting and exciting. The process is a straightforward stir-fry, but the result is anything but ordinary. You get incredibly tender, savory slices of pork nestled against the uniquely firm, yet yielding, bite of wood ear mushrooms, all coated in a light, glossy sauce. It’s an easy-to-master recipe that will make you feel like a stir-fry pro in your own kitchen. Gather Your Ingredients Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic dish. Don’t be intimidated by any unfamiliar names; everything is easy to find at an Asian market or online, and I’ve included simple swaps you can find at any major supermarket. For the Main Event: Lean Pork: About 1/2 pound (225g), such as pork loin or tenderloin. Dried Wood Ear Mushrooms: A large handful, about 1/2 cup (15g). These are also known as black fungus. You can find them in the dried goods or international aisle. Substitution: If you can’t find them, about 1.5 cups of fresh shiitake or cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced, will work, though they will have a softer texture. Green Onions: 2-3 stalks, also known as scallions. Peanut Oil: About 3 tablespoons, for stir-frying. Substitution: Any neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, like canola, grapeseed, or vegetable oil, is a perfect substitute. For the Marinade & Sauce: Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon. This is the secret to getting that velvety texture on the pork. Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons, divided….

Golden Simmered Catfish with Aromatic Perilla

2026-01-05

Are you looking for a dish that is deeply comforting, incredibly flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare? This Golden Simmered Catfish with Aromatic Perilla is your answer. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe comes together in under an hour. The primary cooking method is a gentle braise, which allows the delicate fish to become incredibly tender while it soaks up a rich, savory broth. The real star of the show, however, is the fresh perilla, an herb that infuses the entire dish with a unique, fragrant aroma that is simply unforgettable. Don’t be intimidated if some ingredients seem unfamiliar; this recipe is forgiving, easy to master, and a fantastic introduction to a classic flavor combination. Let’s get our ingredients ready. The key is to find a good balance between the savory fish, the umami-rich sauce, and the fragrant herbs. Don’t worry if you can’t find the exact items; I’ll provide plenty of easy-to-find alternatives. For the Fish: Yellow Catfish: About 1.5 lbs (around 700g). These are small, tender catfish. Substitution: If you can’t find yellow catfish, regular channel catfish fillets work beautifully. You can also use other firm, white fish like cod, tilapia, or haddock. Perilla Leaves: A large handful. Perilla is a unique herb in the mint family with a flavor profile that combines hints of basil, mint, and anise. It’s often found in Asian grocery stores, sometimes under its Japanese name, Shiso. Substitution: Thai basil is an excellent substitute that brings a similar aromatic quality. If you can’t find either, a combination of fresh Italian basil and a few mint leaves will give you a lovely, fragrant alternative. For the Sauce and Seasoning: Peanut Oil: 3 tablespoons. Substitution: Any neutral cooking oil like canola, vegetable, or…

Poached Pork Meatballs and Bok Choy Soup

2025-12-22

If you’re searching for a dish that is the very definition of comfort in a bowl, look no further. This recipe for poached pork meatballs and bok choy soup is a revelation in its simplicity and deeply satisfying flavor. It’s a complete meal you can whip up in about 30 minutes, making it an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights. The cooking method is gentle poaching, which is the secret to creating unbelievably tender, silky meatballs that practically melt in your mouth. Unlike fried or heavily browned meatballs, these are delicate and juicy, swimming in a clean, savory broth with crisp-tender greens. Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you; the combination of aromatic seasonings creates a flavor profile that is both nuanced and incredibly warming. It’s an easy, beginner-friendly recipe that delivers impressive results every time. Here is everything you will need to get started. Don’t be intimidated by any unfamiliar ingredients; they are usually easy to find in the international aisle of most large supermarkets or at an Asian market, and I’ve included simple substitutes for anything you might not have on hand. The key is to build layers of savory flavor, so tasting and adjusting as you go is always a good idea. For the Meatballs: Ground Pork: 200g (about ½ lb). Lean ground pork is great, but a little fat adds flavor. Ground chicken or turkey would also work well. Egg White: 1 large. This is a crucial binder that gives the meatballs a wonderfully smooth, tender texture. Scallions: 2, finely chopped (white and green parts). Ginger: 1 teaspoon, freshly grated or minced. Oyster Sauce: 1 tablespoon. This adds a deep, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. If you don’t have it, use an equal amount of Hoisin sauce or a mix of 2 teaspoons soy sauce and…

Fiery Sizzling Eggplant Strips

2025-11-24

Get ready to dazzle your taste buds with a dish that’s incredibly simple to make yet bursting with vibrant, bold flavors! This Steamed Eggplant Strips recipe is a weeknight wonder, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish, and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The magic lies in its preparation: tender, steamed eggplant strips are coated in a fragrant, spicy, and savory sauce that awakens the palate. Its addictive aroma and delightful kick of heat promise a truly satisfying meal that’s both comforting and exciting, proving that delicious food doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary delight: 1 large long eggplant (or two regular globe eggplants) – Look for firm, smooth-skinned ones. 2-3 cloves garlic, minced – For that essential aromatic foundation. 1-2 bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference) – If you can’t find bird’s eye chilies, use a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small fresh red chili for heat. 1 tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds – Adds a nutty depth. 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat and color) 2 stalks spring onion (scallions) – We’ll use both the white and green parts separately. 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Preferably a light soy sauce for its delicate flavor. If you happen to have “steamed fish soy sauce” (蒸鱼豉油), that’s perfect! 1 tablespoon black vinegar – Adds a crucial tangy counterpoint. Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute. 1 teaspoon oyster sauce – For umami richness. 1 teaspoon sugar – Balances the acidity and heat. 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil (like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil) – For blooming the aromatics. Let’s get cooking! Start by preparing your eggplant. Wash and trim the…

Zesty Mustard Edamame A Perfect Brew Companion

2025-11-24

When the sun beats down and the air is warm, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing snack to accompany your favorite cool drink. This recipe for spiced edamame offers just that – a delightful, flavorful bite that’s incredibly popular, especially as a perfect partner to a cold brew. While the classic preparation is already wonderful, we’re adding a special twist today with a zesty mustard flavor that elevates it to another level. This dish is remarkably easy to whip up, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish, and features a unique cooking process that ensures maximum flavor infusion without any fuss. Get ready to impress yourself and your friends with this simple yet sophisticated appetizer! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful snack. For the main ingredient, you’ll need 750g (about 1.5 lbs or 26 oz) of fresh or frozen edamame pods. If using frozen, no need to thaw them beforehand. For aromatics and spice, we’ll use 3 cloves of garlic, minced finely, and a few segments of dried red chili peppers (about 1-2, adjust to your heat preference). The unique spice blend includes 3 whole star anise, a pinch of Sichuan peppercorns (these are small berries that offer a tingly, almost citrusy sensation, not to be confused with dried chilies; if unavailable, you can omit them or use a tiny pinch of black peppercorns, though the characteristic tingle will be absent). For seasoning, you’ll need salt to taste, 20-30ml (about 1.5-2 tablespoons) of light soy sauce, 10ml (about 2 teaspoons) of rice vinegar (white vinegar can be substituted), a splash of oyster sauce (optional, for umami depth), a pinch of sugar (to balance flavors), and the star of our twist: wasabi paste (or horseradish, to taste). If you can’t find fresh edamame, frozen pods work perfectly…

Air Dried Steamed Beef Jerky

2025-11-18

Autumn’s arrival often brings a crispness to the air, with cooler mornings and evenings, and it’s the perfect time to crave intensely flavored, chewy snacks. If you’re anything like me, whipping up your own culinary delights is incredibly rewarding. This recipe for Air Dried Steamed Beef Jerky is a true labor of love, taking several days from start to finish, and it requires a bit of patience and practice, making it an advanced project for the dedicated home cook. The unique process involves an initial seasoning and air-drying phase, followed by steaming, and finally a second drying period. This method results in jerky that’s incredibly flavorful, deeply aromatic, and delightfully chewy, without being too “fiery” or heavy. It’s a perfectly satisfying snack, whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative during a diet, a sophisticated treat to accompany a movie, or an energizing pick-me-up for your afternoon tea. Plus, knowing you’ve made this exquisite, pure, additive-free snack entirely by hand is a fantastic feeling of accomplishment! Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this impressive beef jerky. This recipe makes a substantial batch, perfect for sharing or enjoying over time – feel free to halve it if you’re just starting out. Yields: Approx. 10kg (22 lbs) of finished jerky (based on initial 10kg raw beef) Prep time: 1 hour active prep + overnight marinade Drying/Steaming/Drying: 3-4 days total Ingredients: Main: 20 catties (approx. 10 kg / 22 lbs) fresh beef hind leg, lean cuts like the ‘eye of round’ or ‘top round’ are ideal. Substitutions: If you can’t find specific cuts, choose the leanest beef roast available at your local butcher or supermarket. Marinade & Seasoning: 1 large purple onion, finely chopped A small bunch of scallions (green parts only), finely chopped Sichuan peppercorns, a generous pinch (whole) Chili powder (for…

Honey Maltose Cured Pork Sausages

2025-11-16

Embark on a culinary adventure that brings a treasured flavor from traditional kitchens right to your home. These Honey Maltose Cured Pork Sausages are a testament to time-honored preservation techniques, resulting in a wonderfully savory and delightfully sweet delicacy. While this recipe is characterized as advanced, its complexity lies in the patient process rather than intricate techniques, making it a deeply rewarding project for the enthusiastic home cook. The preparation involves several hours dedicated to curing and steaming, yielding a rich, umami-packed pork sausage with a subtle sweetness from honey and maltose. The signature crimson hue, often achieved with a touch of red yeast powder (though optional for flavor), makes these sausages a visually stunning addition to any meal or gathering. Prepare to impress with a dish that balances traditional depth with a pleasingly approachable flavor profile. To create these delightful cured pork sausages, you’ll need the following ingredients. For the pork, we start with 2000g of pork shoulder or butt, preferably with a 28% fat content for optimal texture and moisture. You can achieve this by hand-trimming if necessary. For the curing mixture: 50g of honey, 20g of maltose (a thick, sweet syrup; corn syrup or extra honey can be used as a substitute), 20g of granulated sugar, 30g of salt, 80g of tapioca starch (potato starch is a good alternative), 60g of oyster sauce, 4g of red yeast powder (optional, purely for a vibrant red color, as it’s flavorless), 200g of ice cubes, 8g of black pepper powder, and a dash of high-proof white spirit or vodka for soaking the casings. You will also need about 6 casings. For the optional variations, prepare 1 large ear of corn (kernels removed) and a generous amount of grated cheese. Let’s move on to the step-by-step process. Begin by preparing your…

Lotus Root Pork Belly Bites A Simple Savory Supper

2025-11-10

Get ready to embark on a delightful culinary adventure with a dish that promises to charm your taste buds and impress your dinner guests, all without breaking a sweat! This recipe, known for its elegant simplicity and heartwarming flavors, brings together tender lotus root and succulent ground pork in a harmony that is both comforting and exotic. With a cooking time of just around an hour and a difficulty level that’s incredibly beginner-friendly, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create something so profoundly delicious. The technique, a gentle braise, allows the natural flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a savory, umami-rich experience that’s surprisingly mellow and deeply satisfying. It’s a wonderful way to explore new ingredients and flavors without intimidation. Let’s gather our tasty components! Here’s what you’ll need: For the Core: Lotus Root: An amount that feels right for your meal – perhaps 1-2 medium-sized roots. This is the star, offering a wonderful, slightly crunchy texture and subtle sweetness. You can usually find fresh lotus root in Asian grocery stores. If fresh isn’t available, you might find frozen sliced lotus root, which works well too after thawing. Pork Shoulder (or Pork Belly): About 1 pound (approximately 450g) of ground pork. Pork shoulder (or “front leg pork” as it’s sometimes called) is ideal for its balanced fat content, making the filling juicy. If you can’t find shoulder, regular ground pork (ideally 80/20 or 70/30 lean-to-fat ratio) is a perfect substitute. For the Flavor Boosters: Scallions (Green Onions): A small bunch, finely chopped. These add a fresh, aromatic kick. Peanut Oil: Enough for frying, about 2-3 tablespoons. Any neutral cooking oil like vegetable or canola oil will work just as well. Cornstarch: 2-3 tablespoons, divided. This acts as a binder for the meat and helps create a lovely golden…