Microwave Pork Belly & Bean Sprouts: Easy, Healthy Recipe

Craving a quick, flavorful, and surprisingly healthy meal? Look no further than this recipe for Microwave Pork Belly & Bean Sprouts! This dish expertly balances the richness of succulent pork belly with the crisp freshness of bean sprouts, all achieved in the convenience of your microwave. Forget lengthy cooking times and complicated techniques; this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or anyone looking for a satisfying meal without the fuss. The bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce create a delicious umami punch that will leave you wanting more.

This simple yet satisfying dish is packed with protein and nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. We've streamlined the process to make it incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Ready to experience the magic of this quick and flavorful meal? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own perfect Microwave Pork Belly & Bean Sprouts.

Tools Needed

Ingredients

  • Thinly sliced pork belly: 150-200g
  • Bean sprouts
  • Enoki mushrooms: 100g (half a bag)
  • Green onions
  • Nori
  • Soy sauce
  • Vinegar
  • Sugar
  • Lemon juice
  • Grated ginger
  • Grated garlic
  • Sesame oil
  • White sesame seeds
  • Black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Sauce

  • Combine soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, grated ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and white sesame seeds in a bowl. Mix well until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.
  • Cut off the root end and separate the mushrooms with your hands.
  • Rinse and drain.
  • Cut off the root end, cut in half lengthwise, then chop into small pieces.
Prepare the ponzu sauce: Combine soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, grated ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and white sesame seeds in a bowl. Mix well until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.Prepare the enoki mushrooms: Cut off the root end and separate the mushrooms with your hands.Prepare the bean sprouts: Rinse and drain.Prepare the green onions: Cut off the root end, cut in half lengthwise, then chop into small pieces.
Prepare the Ingredients and Sauce

Step 2. Microwave and Drain

  • Start with half of the bean sprouts, then half of the enoki mushrooms, followed by the pork belly. Repeat the layers.
  • Cover loosely with plastic wrap, poke holes for ventilation, and microwave at 600W for 10 minutes (adjust time depending on your microwave and container).
  • After microwaving, remove the plastic wrap and drain off some of the excess water.
Layer the ingredients in a heat-resistant plate: Start with half of the bean sprouts, then half of the enoki mushrooms, followed by the pork belly. Repeat the layers.Microwave: Cover loosely with plastic wrap, poke holes for ventilation, and microwave at 600W for 10 minutes (adjust time depending on your microwave and container).Remove excess water: After microwaving, remove the plastic wrap and drain off some of the excess water.
Microwave and Drain

Step 3. Add Sauce and Garnish

  • Pour the prepared ponzu sauce over the pork belly and bean sprouts. Sprinkle with green onions and black pepper.
Add ponzu sauce and garnish: Pour the prepared ponzu sauce over the pork belly and bean sprouts. Sprinkle with green onions and black pepper.
Add Sauce and Garnish

Step 4. Serve

  • Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serve

Read more: Shojin Ryori: Delicious Buddhist Vegetarian Recipes

Tips

  • Feel free to add other vegetables like shredded onions.
  • Adjust the microwave cooking time based on your microwave and the container used.
  • Store-bought ponzu sauce can be used as a substitute for the homemade version.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of pork instead of pork belly?

While pork belly provides the best flavor and texture for this recipe, you can experiment with other cuts like pork shoulder or tenderloin. Just be aware that cooking times may need adjustment.

2. What if I don't have a microwave? Can I cook this on the stovetop?

Yes, you can! Sauté the pork belly and aromatics in a pan until browned, then add the bean sprouts and cook until tender. Adjust cooking time as needed.


This Microwave Pork Belly & Bean Sprouts recipe proves that healthy and delicious meals can be incredibly quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy this satisfying and flavorful dish as a light lunch, a quick weeknight dinner, or a tasty side to your favorite meal. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!