10 Pork Recipes for New Year Progress and Luck
In many traditions, pork is a symbol of progress and forward movement, as the pig is known to root forward when foraging. Starting the New Year with a delicious pork dish is a wonderful way to symbolize a year full of success, prosperity, and taking steps forward.
From succulent roasts to quick-and-easy stir-fries, here are 10 pork recipes to bring you luck and progress in the year ahead!
1. Traditional Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork
This dish is a symbol of abundance and a promise of a year that is rich and satisfying. Slow-cooking the pork ensures it is tender, representing an easy, smooth path forward.
Directions
Rub the pork shoulder generously with the BBQ rub.
Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker.
Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth around the pork.
Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork shreds easily with a fork.
Shred the pork in the pot and mix with the juices before serving.
2. Honey-Glazed Pork Chops
The sweet glaze on these pork chops symbolizes a sweet, prosperous year. Chops are a straightforward and modern way to bring good fortune to your table.
Directions
Pat the pork chops dry and season with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chops for 4-5 minutes per side.
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
Pour the glaze over the chops in the last minute of cooking, turning to coat evenly.
3. Pineapple Pork Stir-Fry
Pineapple is a powerful symbol of wealth and good fortune in several cultures. Combined with pork, this quick stir-fry is a dish promising rapid financial progress.
Directions
Toss the sliced pork with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce.
Heat sesame oil in a wok and stir-fry the pork until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Add the bell peppers and pineapple to the wok and stir-fry for 3 minutes.
Return the pork to the wok. Add the remaining soy sauce and toss everything to coat.
4. Classic Herb-Crusted Pork Loin Roast
A majestic roast pork loin represents a grand and significant year of achievements. The herb crust symbolizes the richness and depth of your future success.
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix the rosemary, thyme, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Rub the herb mixture all over the pork loin.
Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
5. Pork and Cabbage Dumplings (Jiaozi)
Dumplings, especially those shaped like ancient Chinese money (ingots), are eaten for wealth and prosperity. The pork filling is the perfect foundation for a financially successful year.
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, cabbage, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of a wrapper. Moisten the edges with water and fold into a half-moon shape, crimping the edges to seal.
Steam or boil the dumplings until the pork is cooked through.
6. Cider-Braised Pork Shoulder
Braised dishes take time and patience, signifying that your efforts throughout the year will yield tender, positive results. The apple cider brings a touch of sweetness to the outlook.
Directions
Sear the pork shoulder on all sides in an oven-safe pot. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the chopped onion in the pot until softened.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, then return the pork to the pot.
Pour in the apple cider and add the bay leaf.
Cover and braise in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 3-4 hours until fork-tender.
7. Garlic and Chili Pork Noodles
The long noodles in this dish are a classic symbol of longevity, while the pork ensures progress and a strong foundation for the year.
Directions
Cook the noodles according to package directions.
Brown the ground pork in a skillet and drain the excess fat.
Stir in the minced garlic and chili garlic sauce and cook for 1 minute.
Add the cooked noodles and soy sauce to the skillet. Toss until everything is well combined and heated through.
Garnish with green onions before serving.
8. Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Stuffing a pork tenderloin is a festive way to symbolize the filling of your year with good things, from wealth to happiness.
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice the pork tenderloin lengthwise, without cutting all the way through, to create a pocket.
Mix the spinach, feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and breadcrumbs. Stuff the mixture into the pork pocket.
Tie the tenderloin with kitchen twine.
Roast for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
9. Pork Cutlets with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Pork cutlets offer a quick, decisive meal—a promise of swift action and positive results in the New Year. The rich sauce adds a layer of comfort and prosperity.
Directions
Dredge the pork cutlets in flour seasoned with salt and pepper.
Melt butter in a skillet and cook the cutlets for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and keep warm.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until soft.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer until the sauce thickens.
Return the pork cutlets to the pan and coat with the sauce.
10. Crispy Pork Belly Bites
Pork belly, with its layers of meat and fat, symbolizes the layering of wealth and success throughout the year. The crispy skin is a satisfying start to a year of good fortune.
Directions
Score the pork belly skin deeply (without cutting into the meat).
Rub the skin with white vinegar and then generously with sea salt. Rub the meat side with five-spice powder.
Roast the pork belly at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes, then increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, until the skin is perfectly crispy.
Cool slightly, then cut into small, bite-sized pieces.