Are you a fan of Chinese cuisine? Have you ever tried moo shu pork?
This dish, which originated in northern China, has been popular in America since the 1960s. It consists of meat or seafood cooked with cabbage and eggs in a light sauce, and is typically served with warm Mandarin-style pancakes, sliced green onions, and hoisin or plum sauce.
But how exactly do you eat it? In this article, we’ll explore different ways to enjoy moo shu pork and provide tips on reheating leftovers and making your own pancakes.
So grab your chopsticks and get ready to dig in!
How To Eat Moo Shu Pork?
Moo shu pork is traditionally served with small, thin pancakes made of flour. These pancakes are used to wrap up the pork and vegetables, along with a dollop of hoisin sauce for added flavor.
To assemble your moo shu pork, start by warming up your pancakes. You can do this by throwing them on a wok or pan for 60-90 seconds, or microwaving them for 30 seconds. Heating them via stovetop is slightly tastier, but both methods work fine.
Next, lather the pancakes with hoisin sauce using a knife. Then, load up the pancakes with the pork and vegetable mixture. You can also add sliced green onions or other garnishes for extra flavor.
Once your pancakes are loaded up, it’s time to eat! You can use chopsticks or your hands to pick up the pancake and take a bite. The combination of savory pork, fresh vegetables, and sweet hoisin sauce is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The Traditional Way To Eat Moo Shu Pork
The traditional way to eat moo shu pork is to serve it in small, thin pancakes made of flour. These pancakes are typically warmed up on a hot skillet or wok, and then brushed with hoisin sauce. The pork and vegetable mixture is then spooned onto the pancake, along with sliced green onions or other garnishes.
To eat the moo shu pork, you simply roll up the pancake like a burrito and take a bite. The combination of textures and flavors in each bite is what makes moo shu pork such a popular dish. The savory pork and vegetables are perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy hoisin sauce, while the crispy pancake adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
In some Chinese restaurants, you may also find “green onion brushes” served alongside your moo shu pork. These are slices of green onion that have been cut on either side to create a brush-like shape. You can use these brushes to spread the hoisin sauce onto your pancake before adding the pork and vegetables.
While moo shu pork can be served over rice or even tortillas as a substitute for pancakes, the traditional way to eat it is with these small, thin pancakes. So next time you order moo shu pork at a Chinese restaurant or make it at home, be sure to try it the traditional way for an authentic and delicious experience.
Tips For Reheating Leftover Moo Shu Pork
If you have leftover moo shu pork, it’s important to reheat it properly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness. Here are some tips for reheating your moo shu pork:
1. Store your leftover moo shu pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. To reheat, you can use a microwave or an oven. If using a microwave, place the pork in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
3. If using an oven, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the pork in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
4. To avoid sogginess, it’s best to reheat the pancakes separately from the pork and vegetables. You can warm up the pancakes in a pan or microwave them for a few seconds.
5. When reheating the pork and vegetables, make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
6. Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pork reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
By following these tips, you can safely and deliciously enjoy your leftover moo shu pork.
Making Your Own Mandarin-Style Pancakes
If you want to take your moo shu pork experience to the next level, consider making your own Mandarin-style pancakes. These thin, chewy pancakes are easy to make and add an extra layer of authenticity to your meal.
To make the pancakes, start by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Pour in 3/4 cup of boiling water and mix with a fork until the dough holds together. Let it cool for a few minutes.
Next, place the dough on a floured countertop or cutting board and knead until it’s smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit of flour. Place the dough in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest for about an hour.
After the dough has rested, take it out of the bowl and form it into an 8-inch long roll. Cut it into eight 1-inch pieces, then cut each piece into halves. You should have 16 pieces in total. As you begin to form the individual balls of dough, keep the rest covered so they stay fresh.
Take two pieces and roll them to form small balls and flatten them slightly. Brush one of the flattened discs with sesame oil and place another flattened disc on top. Press together and, using a rolling pin, roll them into a disc that’s about 7-8 inches wide. Repeat with the rest of the dough and keep covered.
To cook the pancakes, place them (one disc at a time) into a heated wok or frying pan and cook for less than a minute on each side. If you see air bubbles forming, press down on the pancake gently to remove them.
Once cooked, remove the pancake from the pan and peel apart the two pancakes that have formed. Fold them into quarters and set them aside, making sure to cover them so they stay warm.
Now that you have your homemade Mandarin-style pancakes, you’re ready to assemble your moo shu pork! Load up your pancakes with pork, vegetables, hoisin sauce, and any other garnishes you desire. Roll them up and enjoy!
Creative Ways To Enjoy Moo Shu Pork
Moo shu pork is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some creative ideas to mix up your moo shu pork experience:
1. Moo Shu Pork Tacos: Instead of using the traditional flour pancakes, try using small corn tortillas to create a fusion of Asian and Mexican flavors. Load up the tortillas with the pork and vegetable mixture, and top with some fresh cilantro, lime juice, and hot sauce.
2. Moo Shu Pork Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves instead of pancakes. Spoon the pork mixture onto the lettuce leaves, and wrap them up like a burrito. This is a great way to enjoy all the flavors of moo shu pork without the added carbs.
3. Moo Shu Pork Fried Rice: Turn your moo shu pork into a complete meal by adding it to fried rice. Simply cook some rice, and stir-fry it with eggs, peas, carrots, and any other vegetables you like. Then add in the pork mixture and stir-fry until everything is heated through.
4. Moo Shu Pork Spring Rolls: For a fun appetizer or party snack, try making moo shu pork spring rolls. Fill rice paper wrappers with the pork mixture, along with some shredded carrots, cucumber, and mint leaves. Roll them up tightly, and serve with hoisin sauce for dipping.
5. Moo Shu Pork Salad: For a lighter option, try turning your moo shu pork into a salad. Toss together some mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and the pork mixture. Drizzle with a sesame ginger dressing for an extra burst of flavor.
No matter how you choose to enjoy it, moo shu pork is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Experiment with different variations and find your favorite way to savor this delicious dish!
Pairing Moo Shu Pork With Other Chinese Dishes
Moo shu pork is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of other Chinese dishes. Here are some suggestions for creating a delicious and well-rounded meal:
1. Kung Pao Chicken: The spicy, bold flavors of Kung Pao chicken complement the sweet and savory flavors of moo shu pork. Pair this dish with an off-dry Riesling or Gewurztraminer to balance the heat.
2. Beef and Broccoli: The tender beef and crisp broccoli in this dish provide a nice contrast to the soft texture of moo shu pork. Pair it with a silky red wine like Merlot or Grenache.
3. Ma Po Tofu: This spicy Sichuan dish pairs well with fruity, low-tannin red wines like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. Alternatively, an off-dry Chenin Blanc or Gewurztraminer can help cool down the heat.
4. Peking Duck: The crispy skin and rich meat of Peking duck pairs well with the sweet hoisin sauce used in moo shu pork. Try pairing it with a ripe Pinot Noir or Chenin Blanc.
5. Dim Sum: A variety of small dishes like dumplings, egg rolls, and spare ribs make for a great accompaniment to moo shu pork. Pair it with a light, crisp, and fruity rosé or a semi-dry German Riesling for a refreshing contrast.
No matter what dishes you choose to pair with moo shu pork, be sure to experiment and find your own favorite combinations. With its rich flavors and versatility, moo shu pork is sure to become a staple in your Chinese cuisine repertoire.