This Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles dish combines the fiery kick of sweet chilli sauce with tender pork and crisp bell peppers, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The noodles soak up the flavors of the stir-fry sauce, offering a satisfying bite with every forkful.
Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but the colorful peppers add a vibrant touch to the dish, making it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, a flavorful lunch, or anytime you crave a flavorful, yet simple meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 80g dried egg noodles
- 2 small garlic cloves, crushed
- ½ tbsp finely grated fresh root ginger
- 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
- ½ tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tbsp groundnut or vegetable oil
- 1 small red pepper, deseeded and thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow pepper, deseeded and thinly sliced
- 100g pork fillet, thinly sliced
- 1 large spring onion, thinly sliced
Directions:
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Cook the egg noodles according to the packet instructions. Rinse under cold water and set aside.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, ginger, sweet chilli sauce, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of water.
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Heat the oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the peppers for 5-6 minutes, until tender but still crunchy. Remove and set aside.
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Add the pork to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned on both sides.
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Return the peppers to the pan and add the stir-fry sauce. Let it bubble for 1 minute, then add the noodles and cook for another minute, until heated through.
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Serve with the spring onions sprinkled on top.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes Kcal: 669 kcal | Servings: 1 serving
The Origin of Sweet Chilli Sauce and Its Role in the Dish
Sweet chilli sauce, a key ingredient in this recipe, originates from Southeast Asia. It is often used as a dipping sauce or glaze and has gained international popularity for its unique combination of sweetness, heat, and garlic. The sauce is made from red chillies, garlic, sugar, vinegar, and sometimes, additional seasonings like fish sauce. In Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles, the sauce acts as the perfect marinade for the pork and adds a burst of flavor to the stir-fry. It is this sauce that sets the dish apart, turning an everyday stir-fry into something a little more exciting with its sweet and spicy undertones.
Flavor Profile of Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles
This dish has a well-balanced flavor profile, with each ingredient complementing the other perfectly. The sweetness of the sweet chilli sauce mingles beautifully with the heat from the chili, giving the pork a bold and vibrant flavor. The peppers, which are stir-fried just until tender, retain a slight crunch that provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the pork and sauce. The noodles, once tossed in the stir-fry sauce, absorb all the flavors, becoming tender and full of savory goodness. The addition of ginger and garlic adds an aromatic depth that rounds out the dish.
The spring onions, sprinkled on top just before serving, bring a sharp, fresh bite that cuts through the richness of the sauce, adding brightness and balance to the dish. Overall, this combination of sweet, spicy, savory, and fresh makes Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles an exciting meal to look forward to.
The Versatility of Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles
One of the best things about Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles is its versatility. While the recipe calls for pork fillet, you can easily swap it out for chicken, beef, or tofu to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. The dish is equally delicious with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots, making it adaptable to your taste. You can even vary the type of noodles used—egg noodles, rice noodles, or even udon noodles—all work wonderfully in this stir-fry.
If you prefer a more intense heat, you can increase the amount of sweet chilli sauce or add some fresh sliced chillies to the dish. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of sweet chilli sauce or opt for a mild version of the sauce.
How to Make Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles Healthier
For those looking to make Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles a bit healthier, there are a few simple tweaks you can make. First, swap the groundnut or vegetable oil for a lighter cooking oil such as olive oil or avocado oil. You can also opt for whole wheat noodles or gluten-free noodles for a healthier alternative to traditional egg noodles. For a lighter version of the dish, you can reduce the amount of sweet chilli sauce, which tends to be high in sugar, or use a homemade version with less sugar and a bit more spice.
Additionally, adding more vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or snap peas will boost the nutritional value without compromising the flavor. If you’re looking to increase your protein intake, you could substitute the pork for leaner cuts of meat or plant-based protein like tempeh or chickpeas.
Perfect Pairings with Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles
Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles can be served as a standalone dish or paired with complementary sides. A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil would balance the heat from the stir-fry and add a cool crunch. Alternatively, you can serve the dish with a simple miso soup or a side of steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
For a more indulgent side, crispy spring rolls or dumplings can make for a great appetizer, providing a crispy, savory contrast to the tender noodles and pork. A cold glass of iced green tea or a light beer would pair well with the sweet, spicy flavors of the dish, making for a perfect casual dinner.
Making Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles for Meal Prep
This dish is also a fantastic option for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an easy and delicious choice for lunch or dinner throughout the week. To meal prep, simply divide the stir-fry into individual portions and store in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat the noodles in the microwave or on the stovetop. To prevent the noodles from becoming too dry, add a splash of water or extra sauce when reheating.
How to Serve Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles
When serving Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles, presentation plays a key role in elevating the dish. To make it look as good as it tastes, serve the stir-fry in a large bowl or on a plate with the noodles heaped in the center. Sprinkle the sliced spring onions on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. You can also garnish the dish with sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of extra sweet chilli sauce for added flavor and visual appeal.
Why Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles is a Great Weeknight Meal
Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles is the epitome of an easy, flavorful weeknight meal. It’s fast to make, requiring less than 30 minutes of cooking time, and doesn’t require any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. This dish is packed with flavor, making it a satisfying dinner option that will please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a family, Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles is a dish that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Conclusion
Sweet Chilli Pork and Pepper Noodles is a dish that blends simple ingredients with bold flavors, creating a satisfying and delicious meal in a short amount of time. The combination of sweet chilli sauce, tender pork, crunchy peppers, and savory noodles makes for a balanced dish that is both comforting and exciting. Its versatility in ingredients and flavors allows for endless variations, making it suitable for any taste preference or dietary need. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, meal prep, or a new dinner idea, this recipe is a surefire hit that will keep you coming back for more.