Pork fillets in teriyaki sauce

Pork fillets in teriyaki sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender pork with a savory-sweet sauce. Teriyaki sauce adds a delicious umami flavor to the pork, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Here’s a straightforward recipe to prepare this dish:

Ingredients

  • For the Pork Fillets:

    • 1.5 lbs (675 g) pork tenderloin or pork fillets, trimmed and sliced into medallions
    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
    • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • For the Teriyaki Sauce:

    • 1/2 cup soy sauce
    • 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine) or dry white wine
    • 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
    • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
    • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
    • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
    • 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pork Fillets:

    • Season the pork fillets with salt and black pepper.
    • Heat vegetable oil or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear the Pork:

    • Add the pork fillets to the skillet in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches).
    • Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the pork is browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
    • Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Teriyaki Sauce:

    • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.
    • Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Pour in the soy sauce, mirin (or white wine), honey (or brown sugar), and rice vinegar.
    • Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Thicken the Sauce:

    • Stir the cornstarch mixture (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) into the sauce.
    • Continue to simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  5. Combine Pork and Sauce:

    • Return the cooked pork fillets to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the teriyaki sauce.
    • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the pork is heated through and coated with the sauce.
  6. Serve:

    • Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
    • Serve the pork fillets with the teriyaki sauce over steamed rice, noodles, or alongside vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.

Tips

  • Pork Alternatives: You can also use pork chops or pork loin, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
  • Sauce Adjustments: Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce by adding more honey or soy sauce according to your taste.
  • Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots to the skillet for a one-pan meal.

Enjoy your savory and satisfying pork fillets in teriyaki sauce!