14 Ground Pork Recipes So Good, You’ll Forget About Beef

Ground pork doesn’t always get the spotlight, but it should. It’s juicy, quick to cook, and soaks up seasoning like a pro. Whether you’re cooking on a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the weekend, these recipes prove ground pork can do it all.

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From sticky-sweet meatballs to spicy stir-fries and juicy burgers, there’s something for every mood. You’ll find recipes that feel bold, cozy, or even a little fancy—without asking for more than 30–40 minutes of effort. And because ground pork tends to be more budget-friendly than beef or chicken, it keeps your wallet happy too.

These 14 recipes are loaded with flavor, family-tested, and weeknight-approved. And if you’ve got a pack of ground pork in the fridge and no idea what to do with it—this list has you covered.

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Quick Recipe Guide

Recipe Title	Flavor Profile	Time (Prep + Cook)	Meal Type
Sticky Asian Pork Meatballs	Sweet, umami, tangy	15 min + 20 min	Dinner or Appetizer
Pork and Cabbage Stir-Fry	Savory, fast, healthy	10 min + 15 min	Weeknight Dinner
Spicy Pork Lettuce Wraps	Fresh, spicy, crunchy	10 min + 10 min	Low-Carb Lunch
Pork and Egg Fried Rice	Savory, comforting	10 min + 15 min	One-Pan Dinner
Pork Chili with Beans	Bold, hearty, rich	20 min + 40 min	Cozy Dinner
Ground Pork Tacos	Zesty, classic, crowd-pleasing	10 min + 10 min	Taco Night
Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet	Earthy, balanced, rustic	15 min + 25 min	Whole30 Friendly
Pork Bolognese Pasta	Deep, rich, tomato-forward	20 min + 40 min	Pasta Dinner
Pork and Veggie Fried Noodles	Umami, fast, satisfying	10 min + 15 min	Stir-Fry Meal
Thai Basil Ground Pork	Spicy, aromatic, quick	10 min + 15 min	Takeout at Home
Pork and Rice Stuffed Peppers	Cheesy, filling, balanced	20 min + 30 min	Comfort Classic
Pork Sloppy Joes	Sweet, tangy, nostalgic	10 min + 15 min	Sandwich Night
Ground Pork Breakfast Sausage Patties	Herby, savory, classic	10 min + 10 min	Morning Protein
Pork and Zucchini Stir-Fry	Light, crisp, flavorful	10 min + 12 min	Healthy Dinner

1. Sticky Asian Pork Meatballs

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These meatballs are everything—sweet, salty, tangy, and totally addictive. Glazed in a sticky soy-ginger sauce and finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, they’re just as good over rice as they are served on skewers for a party.

You can bake or pan-fry them depending on your mood, and the sauce only takes five minutes on the stove. It’s bold without being too spicy, which means even picky eaters usually come back for more.

Great for dinner, but even better as leftovers. They reheat like a dream and pair well with noodles, steamed veggies, or tucked into lettuce wraps.

Why This Recipe Works

• The glaze gives big flavor without needing a marinade
• Baking makes them easy and mess-free
• Ground pork stays juicy and tender in meatball form
• Works for both weeknight dinners or appetizers

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take
• Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos
• Add chili garlic paste to heat things up
• Use panko or almond flour for a different binder

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 egg
• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• ¼ cup green onions, chopped

For the glaze:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Mix pork, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Roll into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Place on sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, make the glaze: Combine soy sauce, hoisin, honey, and vinegar in a small pot. Bring to simmer. Stir in cornstarch slurry until thickened.
5. Toss meatballs in glaze and serve warm with rice, noodles, or skewers.

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2. Pork and Cabbage Stir-Fry

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This quick and cozy stir-fry is all about keeping things simple. Just ground pork, shredded cabbage, garlic, and soy sauce come together in one skillet for a meal that tastes way bigger than the sum of its parts.

It’s the kind of recipe that works on those nights when you’re tired, hungry, and need something fast. You’ll have it on the table in under 20 minutes.

It’s also great for clearing out the veggie drawer—throw in some carrots, onions, or even bell peppers to bulk it out.

Why This Recipe Works

• Ground pork cooks fast and builds flavor from the start
• Cabbage softens down but keeps a little bite
• Sauce is simple, but super savory
• One-pan meal with minimal cleanup

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Sub napa cabbage, bok choy, or coleslaw mix
• Use tamari or coconut aminos for soy-free option
• Add ginger or red pepper flakes for more kick
• Use ground beef or turkey if needed

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add pork and cook until browned.
2. Add garlic and cabbage. Stir-fry until cabbage is tender but not mushy.
3. Drizzle with soy sauce, sesame oil, and vinegar. Toss to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve with steamed rice or cauliflower rice.

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3. Spicy Pork Lettuce Wraps

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These wraps are crisp, fresh, and loaded with flavor. The pork gets cooked down with garlic, ginger, and chili paste, then spooned into cool lettuce cups for the perfect bite.

It’s light, low-carb, and endlessly satisfying. Bonus: no need for silverware. Just grab, wrap, and bite.

Serve it as a main or set it out with toppings for a hands-on dinner.

Why This Recipe Works

• The pork soaks up the spicy-sweet sauce
• Lettuce gives a cool, crunchy contrast
• Quick cook time makes it weeknight-ready
• Customizable with toppings like pickled veggies or herbs

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Swap ground pork with turkey or plant-based crumble
• Use butter lettuce, romaine, or cabbage leaves
• Add shredded carrots or cucumbers for texture
• Try gochujang or sriracha for different heat

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce
• 2 tsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 8 large lettuce leaves (like butter or romaine)

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a skillet. Cook pork until no longer pink.
2. Add garlic, ginger, chili sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
3. Spoon pork mixture into lettuce cups.
4. Serve with optional toppings like green onions, sesame seeds, or rice.

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4. Pork and Egg Fried Rice

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A fridge-friendly classic with serious comfort vibes. Ground pork adds rich flavor while scrambled eggs and leftover rice make it feel complete. This is the meal you throw together when time’s tight but flavor still matters.

Everything cooks in one pan, and it’s just as good the next day—maybe even better.

Why This Recipe Works

• Leftover rice gets new life in under 20 minutes
• Pork adds richness without making it greasy
• Balanced with eggs and veggies
• One-pan meal for easy cleanup

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Use cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb
• Swap peas for diced carrots or bell peppers
• Add oyster sauce for depth
• Use tamari for a gluten-free twist

Ingredients

• 3 cups cold cooked rice
• 1 lb ground pork
• 2 eggs, beaten
• ½ cup frozen peas
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cooking oil

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet. Cook pork until browned. Push to the side.
2. Scramble eggs in empty space until just set. Stir into pork.
3. Add garlic, peas, and rice. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce and sesame oil. Cook until hot. Serve right away.

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5. Pork Chili with Beans

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This chili hits deep. Ground pork makes it richer than beef, and the mix of beans, tomatoes, and spice brings the comfort. It’s the kind of meal that’s made for big bowls, cold nights, and second helpings.

Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers—it only gets better the next day.

Why This Recipe Works

• Pork adds flavor without being too greasy
• Beans stretch the recipe and add texture
• Bold spices make it warming and hearty
• One-pot recipe that simmers itself

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Use black beans, kidney beans, or pinto—whatever’s in the pantry
• Add diced sweet potato or corn
• Use chipotle powder or smoked paprika for depth
• Top with sour cream, cheese, or jalapeños

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Brown pork in a large pot. Drain if needed. Add onion and garlic; cook 5 minutes.
2. Stir in tomatoes, sauce, beans, and spices.
3. Simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with toppings.

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6. Ground Pork Tacos

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Taco night just got a flavorful upgrade. Ground pork brings a juicy, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with classic taco seasonings and all your favorite toppings. It’s fast, fuss-free, and easy to customize depending on what you’ve got on hand.

These tacos are bold enough for adults and mellow enough for kids—everyone gets to build their own plate.

Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or any meal that needs to hit the table fast.

Why This Recipe Works

• Pork adds rich, slightly sweet flavor to taco seasoning
• One-pan cooking for speed and ease
• Totally flexible with toppings and tortillas
• Cooks in under 20 minutes start to finish

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Swap flour tortillas for corn or crunchy shells
• Add canned corn, black beans, or sautéed onions
• Use pre-made taco seasoning or make your own
• Top with guac, slaw, or chipotle mayo for extra flavor

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
• ¼ cup water
• 8 small taco shells (flour or corn)
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa

Instructions

1. Brown ground pork in a skillet over medium heat. Drain if needed.
2. Add taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Warm taco shells while the meat finishes.
4. Assemble tacos with pork and toppings. Serve hot.

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7. Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet

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This dish is rustic, cozy, and full of balance. The sweetness from the tender sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory pork, and it all cooks together in one skillet with warm spices and a hint of garlic.

It’s great for whole-food eaters and makes for solid leftovers. No oven, no fuss—just solid, real food that tastes like comfort.

Plus, it’s just pretty in the pan, which never hurts.

Why This Recipe Works

• Sweet potatoes and pork caramelize together in one pan
• Full of fiber, protein, and natural sweetness
• No oven needed—cooks entirely on the stove
• Great base for eggs, hot sauce, or avocado on top

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Use butternut squash or white potatoes
• Add spinach or kale near the end
• Swap olive oil for ghee or avocado oil
• Use sausage-style pork for extra depth

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet. Add sweet potatoes and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and tender.
2. Add onion and garlic. Sauté 2–3 minutes.
3. Push veggies to the side, add pork and cook until browned.
4. Stir everything together, season with paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 more minutes and serve warm.

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8. Pork Bolognese Pasta

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This rich, slow-simmered sauce turns ground pork into a deeply satisfying pasta dinner. It’s tomato-heavy with hints of garlic and herbs, finished with just enough cream or butter to make it silky.

You don’t need hours. Even a short simmer builds enough flavor to feel like something you’d order at a good Italian spot.

Serve it over spaghetti, rigatoni, or whatever pasta you love most.

Why This Recipe Works

• Ground pork gives richness without the heaviness of beef
• Sauce thickens beautifully as it simmers
• Herbs and garlic build layers of flavor
• Feels fancy, but totally doable on a weeknight

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Add red wine or a splash of cream for depth
• Swap pork for a mix of pork and beef
• Use canned crushed tomatoes or passata
• Try with gluten-free or veggie pasta

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Cooked pasta (spaghetti or rigatoni)
• Optional: Parmesan and parsley for topping

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a skillet. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
2. Add pork and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Toss with cooked pasta and top with Parmesan if desired.

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9. Pork and Veggie Fried Noodles

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Craving takeout but want something quicker and healthier? This pork and veggie noodle stir-fry checks all the boxes—fast, flavorful, and packed with crunchy veggies and chewy noodles.

It’s bold with soy and garlic, and ground pork brings enough richness to balance it all out.

Total comfort food, without the delivery wait.

Why This Recipe Works

• Pork cooks quickly and evenly with noodles
• Sauce coats everything for max flavor
• Veggies add color and crunch
• Ready in 20 minutes or less

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Use ramen, udon, or rice noodles
• Swap in broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers
• Add hoisin or oyster sauce for more umami
• Try a fried egg on top for extra richness

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 8 oz cooked noodles (ramen or rice)
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, cabbage, onions)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp cooking oil

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok. Add pork and cook until browned.
2. Add garlic and vegetables. Stir-fry 3–4 minutes.
3. Add noodles and toss well.
4. Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Stir-fry another 2–3 minutes until coated and hot.

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10. Thai Basil Ground Pork

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This classic Thai dish brings bold heat and a sweet-savory punch thanks to fish sauce, garlic, and fresh basil. It cooks in 15 minutes and tastes better than most takeout versions.

Served over rice with a crispy fried egg on top, it’s quick, fiery, and deeply satisfying.

Don’t skip the fresh basil—it makes the dish.

Why This Recipe Works

• The sauce caramelizes beautifully with the pork
• Fresh basil brings the signature Thai flavor
• Only a few ingredients, but huge flavor
• Comes together faster than takeout

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Use ground turkey or beef in place of pork
• Sub Thai basil with regular basil (if needed)
• Add chopped green beans or bell peppers
• Adjust chili paste to control spice

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 2 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp chili paste or chopped Thai chiles
• 1 cup Thai basil leaves
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a skillet. Add garlic and chili paste, stir for 30 seconds.
2. Add pork and cook until browned and crispy in parts.
3. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
4. Add fresh basil, stir just until wilted. Serve over hot rice.

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11. Pork and Rice Stuffed Peppers

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These stuffed peppers are warm, cheesy, and full of texture. Ground pork and rice make the base, with tomatoes, herbs, and melted cheese layered in for comfort you can serve in a bowl—or straight from the pepper.

They hold up well for leftovers and feel special enough to serve guests.

A complete meal tucked neatly inside a pepper.

Why This Recipe Works

• Bell peppers act as natural serving cups—less mess
• Ground pork keeps the filling juicy and savory
• Rice makes it filling without being heavy
• Can be made ahead and baked later

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice
• Swap in crushed tomatoes for diced
• Add beans or corn to stretch the filling
• Try ground turkey or beef if preferred

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers, halved and cored
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly oil a baking dish.
2. Cook pork in a skillet with oil until browned. Add tomatoes, rice, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Stuff each pepper half with the pork mixture. Place in baking dish.
4. Top with cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Uncover and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is golden and peppers are tender.

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12. Pork Sloppy Joes

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These are the ultimate messy sandwich—saucy, sweet, tangy, and stacked high on a soft bun. Ground pork adds a deeper, more savory twist to the classic beef version.

The sauce simmers into the meat, creating a rich filling that’s nostalgic but way more flavorful than anything from a can.

Serve with chips, coleslaw, or eat straight with a spoon.

Why This Recipe Works

• Pork holds onto the sauce better than beef
• Quick and simple, ready in under 30 minutes
• Big flavor with pantry ingredients
• Great for family dinners or casual get-togethers

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Use ketchup and mustard if you don’t have tomato paste
• Add diced green peppers or shredded carrots
• Swap brown sugar with maple syrup
• Serve on buns, toast, or baked potatoes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ cup water
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 hamburger buns

Instructions

1. Cook pork and onion in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
2. Add garlic, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire, water, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until thick and saucy.
4. Serve on buns and get napkins ready.

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13. Ground Pork Breakfast Sausage Patties

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Forget store-bought sausage—these homemade patties are juicy, flavorful, and free from fillers. Ground pork gets seasoned with warm spices and herbs, then pan-fried until golden and crisp on the edges.

They freeze well and reheat fast, making them great for meal prep or weekend brunches.

And you can tweak the spices to get them just the way you like.

Why This Recipe Works

• Fresh herbs and spices create deeper flavor
• Ground pork has just the right fat for juicy patties
• No casing or shaping tools needed
• Freezes and reheats beautifully

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Use maple syrup or brown sugar for sweet-style sausage
• Add crushed red pepper or cayenne for heat
• Try sage, rosemary, or thyme for herb-heavy versions
• Make smaller patties to fit on breakfast sandwiches

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 tsp dried sage
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly.
2. Form into 8 small patties.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
4. Serve hot or freeze for later.

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14. Pork and Zucchini Stir-Fry

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Light, crisp, and full of fresh flavor—this stir-fry makes the most of two quick-cooking ingredients. Ground pork and zucchini pair up in a soy-based sauce that’s light but full of depth.

Serve it with rice or noodles, or enjoy as-is for a low-carb option.

It’s a dinner you can pull off in under 20 minutes without sacrificing flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

• Zucchini cooks fast and stays slightly crisp
• Pork browns quickly and soaks in the sauce
• Balanced with garlic and soy for umami richness
• Light enough for warm nights, filling enough for any dinner

Ingredient Swap Ideas

• Add onions or mushrooms to the stir-fry
• Use coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free sauce
• Top with sesame seeds or green onions
• Swap zucchini for yellow squash or eggplant

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 2 medium zucchinis, halved and sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional for thickening)
• 1 tbsp neutral cooking oil

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet. Add ground pork and cook until browned.
2. Add garlic and zucchini. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until zucchini is tender.
3. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. If thickening, add cornstarch slurry and stir until sauce coats everything.
4. Serve hot over rice or noodles, or enjoy on its own.