stir-fried bacon with bracken

How to Make Stir-Fried Fern with Cured Pork

Stir-fried fern with cured pork is a savory, umami-rich dish popular in many Asian regions. Here’s a simple guide to prepare it:

Ingredients:

- 200g fresh or rehydrated fern (fiddleheads), trimmed and washed

- 150g cured pork, thinly sliced

- 2 garlic cloves, minced

- 1 chili pepper (optional, for heat), sliced

- 1 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tsp sugar

- 1/2 tsp sesame oil

- 2 tbsp cooking oil

Steps:

1. Prepare the Fern: If using fresh fern, blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes to remove bitterness, then drain and rinse under cold water. For dried fern, rehydrate until tender before use.

2. Cook the Pork: Heat oil in a wok over medium heat. Add cured pork and stir-fry until crispy and golden. Remove excess oil if needed.

3. Stir-Fry: In the same wok, sauté garlic and chili until fragrant. Add the fern and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender.

4. Season: Return the pork to the wok. Add soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Toss everything evenly and cook for 1 more minute.

Serving:

Transfer to a plate and serve hot with steamed rice. The combination of smoky pork and earthy fern creates a delightful balance of flavors. Enjoy this hearty, traditional dish that’s both easy to make and full of rustic charm!