Authentic Chinese Pork Chow Mein

By Booper-2

No need to order in chow mein when you can make it yourself, this is just as good if not even better than any Chinese restaurant or take-out -- if you prefer more flavor then add in more soy sauce --- if desired after the pork is finished browning you may add in fresh minced garlic and stir for 2 minutes, this is only optional --- you will love this!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs lean pork, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 5 tablespoons soy sauce (divided, more is desired)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• 1 3/4 cups water, divided
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon molasses (do NOT omit)
• 1 (8 ounce) can sliced water chestnuts
• 1 lb bean sprouts (or more)
• 1 (4 ounce) can mushrooms, drained
• salt and pepper
• 1 bunch green onion (optional)
• blanched almond, lightly toasted

Preparation

Step 1

1 Cut meat into thin strips. 2 Combine 2 tbsp cornstarch with sugar, blend in 1 tbsp soy sauce and 2 tbsp oil; mix to blend. 3 Pour over pork strips; toss well to coat, marinade in mixture for 20 minutes. 4 In a wok or large saute pan heat 2 tablespoons shortening; brown the meat lightly on all sides in hot shortening (after browning the pork you may add in chopped garlic and saute for 2 minutes if desired). 5 Add remaining 4 tbsp soy sauce and 1-1/2 cups water; simmer, covered on low heat for 45 minutes. 6 Add in the celery and onions; simmer for 15 minutes more. 7 In a small bowl, blend in remaining cornstarch with 1/4 cup water; stir into meat mixture. 8 Add molasses, water chestnuts, bean sprouts and mushrooms; heat thoroughly. 9 Season with salt and pepper. 10 Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted almonds.