recipe for ground pork

The Best recipe for ground pork

Crispy Garlic-Herb Ground Pork with Spinach & Rice

4.9 from 1637 votes

A flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground pork cooked with garlic, herbs, and fresh spinach, served over fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal with a satisfying crunch.

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Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time25 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time35 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika

For the Sauce

• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Side

• 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tbsp butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if using for crisping. In a bowl, mix ground pork with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. 2
   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork mixture and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned (5-6 mins). Remove and set aside.
3. 3
   In the same skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil for 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey. Simmer for 2 minutes.
4. 4
   Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted (1-2 mins). Stir in parsley.
5. 5
   Serve the pork mixture over cooked rice, topped with the garlic-spinach sauce.

🔧Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Oven (optional for crisping)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips

• For extra crispiness, transfer cooked pork to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 mins.
• Use low-sodium broth to reduce sodium content.
• Swap spinach for kale or mushrooms for variety.

Substitutions: {“pork”:”Ground turkey or chicken”,”rice”:”Quinoa or cauliflower rice”}

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Garlic-Herb Ground Pork with Spinach & Rice

What is the best way to season ground pork for a flavorful dish?

The best way to season ground pork is by using a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of black pepper. For extra depth, you can add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. If you want a tangy flavor, consider adding a bit of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or a splash of vinegar (like apple cider or balsamic).

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How do I prevent ground pork from becoming dry or tough when cooking?

To keep ground pork moist and tender, cook it quickly over high heat (about 3-4 minutes per pound) to avoid overcooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if needed. Use a non-stick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet to ensure even browning. You can also add a little water, broth, or a splash of oil to create steam and retain moisture. Resting the meat for a few minutes before serving also helps retain juices.

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What are the best cooking methods for ground pork, and which one should I use for a specific dish?

Ground pork can be cooked in several ways:
– Pan-searing (best for stir-fries, meatballs, or burgers) – Cook over high heat with oil until browned and cooked through.
– Baking (ideal for meatloaf, pork chops, or stuffed peppers) – Shape into patties or loaves and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-30 minutes.
– Slow cooking (great for pulled pork or braised dishes) – Simmer with liquids (like broth, tomato sauce, or wine) for 2-3 hours.
– Deep-frying (for crispy pork cutlets or schnitzel) – Cook in hot oil until golden and fully done.
For most dishes, pan-searing or baking works best unless you’re making a slow-cooked or stew-style recipe.

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How do I know if ground pork is fully cooked and safe to eat?

Ground pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s safe from bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. Use a meat thermometer to check—insert it into the thickest part without touching the pan. If you don’t have a thermometer, it should be cooked until it no longer looks pink and is no longer sticky when touched.

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Can I substitute ground pork in a recipe with another type of ground meat, and if so, what’s the best alternative?

Yes, you can substitute ground pork, but texture and flavor may differ. The best alternatives are:
– Ground beef (closest match, but leaner; add fat for juiciness).
– Ground chicken or turkey (lighter, less fatty; works well in salads or stir-fries).
– Ground lamb (richer flavor, best for Middle Eastern or Mediterranean dishes).
– Vegan alternatives (like seitan, jackfruit, or plant-based ground meat) if you’re avoiding animal products.
For best results, adjust cooking times slightly (pork cooks faster than beef due to higher fat content).