Easy Ginger Pork Recipe for Families Traveling with Kids in Bali
Looking for a quick and nutritious meal to prepare for your family while enjoying your Bali vacation? This easy ginger pork recipe combines the comforting flavors of a Japanese classic with a Balinese twist.
Using locally available ingredients like fresh ginger, soy sauce, and a hint of Balinese lime, this dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Table of Contents
What is Ginger Pork?
Ginger pork (shōgayaki) is a classic Japanese dish featuring tender slices of pork sautéed in a sweet and savory sauce made with ginger, soy sauce, and mirin. This family-friendly recipe gives it a Balinese twist with coconut oil, fresh lime, and local spices to make it even more flavorful and perfect for your Bali vacation dining.
Balinese Inspiration for Ginger Pork
Bali’s fresh ingredients and unique spices add a tropical flair to this dish.
The use of coconut oil enhances the aroma, while a squeeze of Balinese lime provides a zesty finish. Fresh ginger sourced from local markets gives the dish its signature warmth, making it a comforting yet exciting meal for families.
Ingredients for Kid-Friendly Ginger Pork (4 Kids)
300g thinly sliced pork loin or shoulder
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon Balinese lime juice
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon palm sugar or brown sugar
1 tablespoon coconut oil
½ cup sliced onions
Optional garnish: chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds
Steps to Prepare Bali-Style Ginger Pork
Prepare the Pork:
Slice the pork loin or shoulder into thin, even pieces. Ensure the slices are about ¼ inch thick to cook evenly.
Lightly pound each slice with a meat tenderizer to ensure tenderness and even cooking.
Create the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, Balinese lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and palm sugar.
Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a smooth and flavorful marinade.
Marinate the Pork:
Add the pork slices to the marinade and coat each piece thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.
Prepare Aromatics and Garnishes:
Thinly slice the onions and set them aside. Prepare optional garnishes, such as chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds.
Heat the Pan:
Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking to avoid burning the ingredients.
Cook the Pork:
Remove the pork from the marinade, letting excess marinade drip off. Reserve the marinade for later.
Place the pork slices in the skillet in a single layer. Sear each side for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Add the Onions and Sauce:
Once the pork is cooked, add the sliced onions to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until softened.
Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Final Touch:
Toss the pork and onions in the thickened sauce to coat evenly. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds.
Tips for Serving Bali-Style Ginger Pork
Authentic Balinese Plating:
Serve the ginger pork on a banana leaf for an authentic touch. Add a scoop of steamed jasmine rice or Balinese yellow rice (nasi kuning) on the side.
Include small bowls of sambal matah and cucumber slices to complement the flavors.
Create a Balanced Meal:
Pair the dish with sautéed Balinese vegetables like water spinach (kangkung) or a fresh vegetable salad with grated coconut.
Kid-Friendly Adjustments:
Reduce the ginger and omit the sambal matah for a milder version suitable for kids.
Let children decorate their plates with sesame seeds or colorful vegetable garnishes.
Enhance the Balinese Flavor:
Incorporate local ingredients like galangal or turmeric into the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
Add a squeeze of Balinese lime just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Rustic Presentation:
Use wooden or bamboo plates for serving, enhancing the tropical, Balinese dining experience.
Nutrition Facts for Ginger Pork Recipe (Per Serving for 4 Kids)
Calories: 250
Fat: 12g (4g saturated fat)
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 420mg
Carbohydrates: 8g (4g sugars, 1g fiber)
Protein: 22g
This dish is a great source of protein and is packed with flavor, making it a nutritious choice for kids.
FAQs About Bali-Style Ginger Pork
Q1: Can I replace pork with other proteins?
A: Yes, chicken thighs, beef slices, or tofu are great substitutes. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein used.
Q2: Where can I find palm sugar in Bali?
A: Palm sugar is available in most local markets and supermarkets like Bintang or Pepito. Look for blocks or jars labeled “gula merah.”
Q3: Can I add Balinese spices to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Adding a touch of turmeric or bumbu Bali (Balinese spice mix) enhances the local flavor.
Q4: How do I store leftover ginger pork?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture.
Q5: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce. Check the labels of other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
Q6: What are the best side dishes for this recipe?
A: Balinese fried rice (nasi goreng), vegetable stir-fry, or a simple green salad pairs well with ginger pork.
Q7: How can I adjust the spice level?
A: For a spicier version, add sambal matah or chili flakes. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of ginger and avoid adding sambal.
Q8: Is this dish suitable for traditional Balinese family meals?
A: Yes, this dish complements other Balinese staples like satay lilit, gado-gado, or steamed rice, making it ideal for family gatherings.
