Best Easy Pork Zha Jiang Rice Noodles Recipe

Rice noodles are topped with a thick, savory minced pork sauce and fresh julienned vegetables. This protein-rich Southern Chinese take on zhajiang is a hearty and satisfying family bowl.

Cook 40 min Difficulty NORMAL 540 kcal
#protein-rich #family meal #rice noodle bowl
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Rice noodles (medium-width dried) 12 oz
  • Ground pork 12 oz
  • Onion 1 cup
  • Zucchini 1 cup
  • Carrot 0.75 cup
  • Shiitake mushrooms (fresh or rehydrated) 0.5 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Soy sauce 3 tbsp
  • Doubanjiang (fermented bean paste) 2 tbsp
  • Shaoxing wine 1 tbsp
  • Dark soy sauce 1 tbsp
  • Sugar 2 tsp
  • Sesame oil 1 tbsp
  • Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
  • Ginger (minced) 1 tbsp
  • Cornstarch 1.5 tbsp
  • Chicken stock 1 cup
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 70 g 52%
Protein 21 g 16%
Fat 18 g 30%
Serving size 360g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Cook rice noodles according to the package instructions until just tender. Rinse under cold water, drain well, and set aside to prevent sticking.

  2. 2

    Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp sesame oil. Sauté the minced garlic and ginger for 30 seconds, then add diced onion and cook until translucent.

  3. 3

    Increase heat to high. Add ground pork, breaking it apart, and stir-fry until nearly cooked through and just starting to brown.

  4. 4

    Add the diced shiitake mushrooms, carrot, and zucchini. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until vegetables soften but retain their texture.

  5. 5

    Stir in doubanjiang, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar. Mix to combine with pork and vegetables, coating all ingredients in the sauce base.

  6. 6

    Pour in chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Combine cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water, then stir into the simmering sauce. Cook 2–3 minutes until the sauce is thick and glossy.

  7. 7

    To serve, arrange rice noodles in bowls. Spoon the hot pork sauce generously over noodles. Top with additional fresh julienned vegetables if desired, and serve immediately.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The standout ingredient is ground pork, which delivers a savory, protein-rich foundation for the classic zhajiang-style sauce. The dish's umami punch is further heightened by doubanjiang (fermented bean paste), soy sauces, and a medley of fresh vegetables.
Q. How do you control the sauce thickness for perfect noodles?
Cornstarch is combined with water and added to the simmering sauce, allowing you to achieve a thick, glossy texture that clings well to the rice noodles. Stirring constantly during this step ensures the sauce doesn't form lumps and reaches the perfect consistency.
Q. What's a common mistake to avoid when cooking the pork?
Avoid overcooking the ground pork after browning—cook it until just done to keep it tender and juicy. Overcooked pork becomes dry and grainy, so keep the heat at high and stir just until the pink disappears before adding vegetables and sauces.
Q. How many calories and how much protein are in each serving?
Each serving provides approximately 540 kcal, with 21g of protein. Protein makes up about 16% of the caloric content, supporting a hearty, satisfying meal with a balanced macronutrient profile.
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