stir-fried bacon with Artemisia argyi

How to Stir-Fry Artemisia Scepter with Preserved Pork

Artemisia scepter, a tender wild vegetable with a unique earthy aroma, pairs perfectly with rich, savory preserved pork, creating a classic Chinese stir-fry. Here’s a simple guide to making this delicious dish.

Ingredients: 300g fresh artemisia scepter, 150g preserved pork, 2 cloves garlic (sliced), 1 red chili (sliced, optional), 1 tbsp cooking oil, 1 tsp light soy sauce, ½ tsp sugar, and a pinch of salt.

Steps:

1. Prep the ingredients: Trim artemisia scepter, discard tough stems, and wash thoroughly. Soak in salted water for 10 minutes to remove bitterness, then drain and cut into 5cm segments. Slice preserved pork thinly.

2. Stir-fry the pork: Heat oil in a wok over medium fire. Add preserved pork and stir-fry until crispy and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the artemisia: In the same wok, add garlic and chili. Stir-fry until aromatic, then add artemisia scepter. Toss quickly for 1–2 minutes until it wilts but stays crisp.

4. Combine and season: Return the pork to the wok. Add soy sauce, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds to blend flavors.

Serve hot with steamed rice. The dish balances the smoky richness of the pork with the fresh, slightly bitter notes of the artemisia, making it a delightful and healthy meal. Enjoy!