Description
This Honey Garlic Pork Rice Bowl is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender pork pieces are seared to golden perfection and coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce made with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of rice vinegar. Served over steamed rice with optional veggies and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this dish offers a wonderful balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb pork tenderloin or pork chops, cut into bite-sized strips or cubes
Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey (85g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (60ml), low-sodium preferred
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (15ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cooking Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (30ml)
Base and Garnishes
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (370-400g)
- Steamed vegetables, optional (such as broccoli, snap peas, or carrots)
- Green onions, sliced for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Rinse 1 cup (185g) of rice under cold water until it runs clear. Cook the rice according to package instructions—about 15 minutes on the stove or 20 minutes in a rice cooker. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and keep warm.
- Prepare the Pork: Cut the pork tenderloin or chops into thin, bite-sized strips or cubes. Lightly season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Pork: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork pieces in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Sear the pork until golden brown on all sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove pork and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the skillet heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and add red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together and allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Pork and Sauce: Return the seared pork to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the pork is fully cooked and coated in a glossy sauce.
- Assemble the Bowl: Divide the cooked rice between serving bowls. Top with the honey garlic pork and steamed vegetables if desired. Garnish each bowl with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Using low-sodium soy sauce helps control the salt content in this dish.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha.
- You can substitute pork with chicken breast or thigh for a variation.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer for a minute longer.
- Steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots add color and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: Honey Garlic Pork, Pork Rice Bowl, Quick Dinner, Asian Pork Recipe, Weeknight Meal
