Sauteed Ground Pork with String Beans: A Simple and Nutritious Delight

If you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal, look no further than sautéed ground pork with string beans. This dish is a staple in many households, known for its simplicity and the satisfying combination of tender ground pork and crisp string beans. With just a handful of basic ingredients—garlic, onion, tomato, and fish sauce—you can create a delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb ground pork

- 1 bunch string beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 onion, chopped

- 2 tomatoes, chopped

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 2 tablespoons fish sauce

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by prepping your vegetables. Trim and cut the string beans, mince the garlic, chop the onion, and dice the tomatoes.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing them until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

3. Cook the Ground Pork: Add the ground pork to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook the pork until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

4. Add the Tomatoes: Once the pork is browned, add the chopped tomatoes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a light sauce that coats the pork.

5. Incorporate the String Beans: Add the string beans to the skillet, stirring them into the pork and tomato mixture. Pour in the fish sauce and stir well. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the string beans are tender but still crisp.

6. Season and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, either on its own or over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Health Benefits of Sautéed Ground Pork with String Beans

1. Protein-Packed: Ground pork is a great source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body maintenance. It also contains important vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, zinc, and iron.

2. Nutrient-Rich Vegetables: String beans are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with fiber and folate. These nutrients support immune health, promote healthy digestion, and contribute to strong bones.

3. Heart-Healthy Garlic and Onion: Garlic and onion not only add flavor but also come with numerous health benefits. Garlic is known for its heart-healthy properties, including reducing cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure. Onions are rich in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.

4. Tomato Power: Tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers. They’re also rich in vitamin C, potassium, and folate.

5. Balanced Flavor and Nutrition: Fish sauce, though used sparingly, adds a depth of flavor and a dose of umami that ties the dish together. It also provides a small amount of protein and minerals.

Why You’ll Love This Dish:

Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a tasty meal on the table fast.

Versatile: You can easily customize the dish by adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or by substituting the ground pork with ground chicken or turkey.

Nutritious: This dish is a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Delicious and Satisfying: The savory flavor of ground pork, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the crispness of string beans create a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for seconds.

Sautéed ground pork with string beans is a wonderful dish that brings together the goodness of simple ingredients in a healthy and satisfying way. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or a nutritious meal to share with your family, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the health benefits in every bite!