Hearty Eight-Treasure Stir-Fry

1. Marinate the Pork

In a bowl, combine the pork cubes with water, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and neutral oil. Let the pork marinate for about 20 minutes.

2. Stir-Fry Peanuts

While the pork is marinating, heat 3 tablespoons of peanut oil in a wok over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the peanuts and stir-fry them for about 5 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Scoop the peanuts out and set them aside.

3. Stir-Fry Red Pepper

In the same oil, add the diced red pepper and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they are slightly softened but still vibrant.

4. Add Spicy Bean Sauce and Pork

Add the spicy bean sauce to the wok and stir-fry for about a minute. Clear a space in the wok and add the remaining peanut oil, then add the marinated pork and minced ginger. Stir-fry the mixture for 1-2 minutes, or until the pork turns opaque.

5. Add Garlic and Shallot

Add the finely chopped garlic and shallot to the wok. Stir-fry them for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly golden.

6. Add Vegetables and Sauces

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the bamboo shoots, carrots, baby corn, tofu, and water chestnuts to the wok. Stir-fry everything together for a few minutes to combine. Then, add the hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Continue to stir-fry until all the ingredients are well-coated with the sauces.

7. Simmer with Stock

Pour in the chicken or pork stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to allow the flavors to develop.

8. Thicken the Sauce

To thicken the sauce, combine the cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Add this slurry to the wok and cook for a few more minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.