Stir-Fried Pork Liver Recipe｜Healthy, Iron-Rich & Easy Chinese Dish That’s Tender, Not Gamey
Pork liver might not be everyone’s first choice, but when it’s cooked the right way, it’s incredibly tender, flavorful, and surprisingly delicious. This Stir-Fried Pork Liver recipe is a classic Chinese home-style dish that’s iron-rich, nutritious, and quick to make — and most importantly, not gamey at all.
The key is proper cleaning, quick marinating, and high-heat stir-frying. Get those steps right, and you’ll end up with silky-soft pork liver that pairs perfectly with rice.
Why You’ll Love This DishNutrient-dense: High in iron, vitamin A, and protein.
Quick cooking: Ready in under 15 minutes.
Tender texture: No toughness, no strong smell.
Authentic flavor: Simple Chinese seasoning, big results.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)Main:
300 g pork liver, thinly sliced
1 small onion or green bell pepper, sliced (optional)
For cleaning & marinating:
Water, for soaking
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp cooking wine (Shaoxing or dry sherry)
1 tsp light soy sauce
1 tsp cornstarch
½ tsp white pepper
1 tsp sesame oil
For stir-frying:
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves, sliced
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tbsp light soy sauce
Optional: chili slices or chili bean paste
Step-by-Step Instructions1. Clean the pork liver (very important)
Place sliced liver in a bowl of cold water and soak for 20–30 minutes, changing the water once or twice until it runs clear. This removes blood and eliminates the gamey taste. Drain well and pat dry.
2. Marinate
Add salt, cooking wine, soy sauce, cornstarch, white pepper, and sesame oil. Mix gently and marinate for 10 minutes.
3. Heat the wok
Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry briefly until fragrant.
4. Stir-fry quickly
Add pork liver in a single layer. Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes only, until just cooked and still slightly pink inside. Overcooking makes it tough.
5. Add vegetables & seasoning
Add onion or bell pepper (if using), soy sauce, and chili. Toss quickly for another 30–60 seconds.
6. Serve immediately
Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice.
Tips for Tender, Non-Gamey Pork LiverAlways soak the liver before cooking.
Slice thinly and cook fast over high heat.
Do not overcook — liver firms up very quickly.
Cornstarch in the marinade helps lock in moisture.
How to ServeThis dish is best enjoyed fresh with hot steamed rice. Pair it with stir-fried greens or a light soup for a balanced Chinese meal.
Final ThoughtsThis Stir-Fried Pork Liver recipe proves that organ meats can be both delicious and easy to prepare. When handled properly, pork liver is tender, mild, and packed with nutrition — a true comfort dish in many Chinese households.
If you’ve avoided pork liver before, this recipe might just change your mind.
