Save It This Thai peanut ground pork bowl is my favorite weeknight rescue when I crave big flavor with minimal fuss. You get a satisfying balance of savory pork and creamy peanut sauce, tossed with crunchy carrots and served over fluffy rice for a dish that feels both comforting and exciting.
I vividly remember making this for the first time after a long workday. The aroma filled the kitchen so quickly my kids actually started setting the table early.
Ingredients
- Cooked rice four cups: Ideal as a fluffy base. Choose jasmine for fragrance or brown for extra nutrition
- Ground pork one pound: The star protein. Look for pork with some fat for better flavor
- Shredded carrots one cup: These add crunch and a pop of color. Pre-shredded carrots make prep simple
- Thai peanut sauce half cup: Key to the signature flavor. Use a good quality bottled sauce or make your own for more control over sweetness and spice
- Fresh cilantro optional: This gives the perfect herbal lift as a garnish. Choose bunches with crisp leaves and no wilting
Instructions
- Cook the Pork:
- Brown the ground pork in a large skillet over medium heat breaking it up as it cooks. Stir occasionally and let it develop some deep golden color for extra flavor. Drain away excess fat
- Build the Flavors:
- Reduce the heat and stir in the peanut sauce plus the shredded carrots. Toss everything together well. Let it cook for one to two minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and the carrots warm through but stay crisp
- Assemble Your Bowls:
- Spoon fluffy cooked rice into bowls. Top generously with the hot pork and peanut mixture. Add a shower of fresh cilantro if you like that herbal punch
Save It I always look forward to using crunchy peanut sauce in this dish. One rainy evening my daughter insisted on extra sauce and it made the meal so much richer and cozier.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If freezing let the pork mixture cool then package separately from rice for best results. Reheat gently and splash in water or extra sauce if needed to revive texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken work well if you want something lighter. Swap in tofu or a plant based crumble for a vegetarian version. If peanut allergies are an issue try a sunflower seed or almond based sauce instead. You can use pre-cooked frozen rice for ultimate convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Top with chopped roasted peanuts if there are no allergies. Add a squirt of lime or a sprinkle of chili flakes for brightness and spice. Serve with sliced cucumbers or a simple slaw for a complete meal.
Cultural and Seasonal Notes
Inspired by the flavors of Thai street food this bowl takes cues from satay and peanut sauced stir fries. In summer I sometimes stir in snap peas or red bell peppers for extra crunch. The warmth of the sauce also makes this a cozy choice for cold winter nights.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add grated zucchini in summer for more veg. Use quick pickled radish in spring for a tangy side. Toss in edamame during fall for more color and protein.
Success Stories
After sharing this recipe at a potluck friends kept asking for the secret to the creamy sauce. My own family requests it when we need something comforting but easy and my son will even take leftovers for his school lunch the next day. It always gets rave reviews for being so flavorful with so little work.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Double the meat and sauce mixture and freeze portions flat in zip top bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently from frozen. Pack rice separately so it does not get mushy.
Save It This satisfying bowl delivers maximum flavor and comfort with minimum effort. Try customizing it for your own family, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the ground pork?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based protein as an alternative.
- → What type of peanut sauce works best?
Choose a creamy, Thai-style peanut sauce for authentic flavor and smooth consistency.
- → How can I make this nut-free?
Replace peanut sauce with a sunflower butter-based alternative if avoiding peanuts.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for additional texture and nutrients.
- → Is this dish spicy?
The spice level depends on your peanut sauce. Add chili flakes if you prefer more heat.