Moo Shu Pork
Savory, quick stir-fry of tender pork strips, earthy mushrooms, and crisp cabbage, all tossed in a fragrant hoisin-soy sauce. This takeout favorite comes with warm Mandarin pancakes for wrapping, ready faster than delivery.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~15 min
Marinate the pork.
1.Toss the pork strips with 1 tbsp soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a bowl.2.Mix well until the pork is evenly coated.3.Set aside at room temperature for 15 minutes. - knead · ~25 min
Make the Mandarin pancake dough.
1.Place all-purpose flour in a mixing bowl. Slowly pour in boiling water while stirring with chopsticks.2.Once cool enough to handle, knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth.3.Cover the dough ball with a damp cloth and rest for 20 minutes.TIPBoiling water gives the pancakes their soft, pliable texture. - prep · ~20 min
Shape and cook the pancakes.
1.Divide rested dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball and flatten slightly.2.Brush the top of 6 rounds with vegetable oil, then sandwich with the remaining 6 rounds.3.Roll each pair into a 6-inch thin circle on a floured surface.4.Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook each pancake pair for 45 seconds per side until blistered.5.Peel the two pancakes apart while still warm. Cover with a towel to keep soft. - fry · ~2 min
Scramble the eggs.
1.Heat 1 tsp vegetable oil in a wok over high heat.2.Pour in the beaten eggs and cook, stirring quickly, until just set (30 seconds).3.Transfer scrambled eggs to a plate and break into small pieces. - fry · ~3 min
Sear the marinated pork.
1.Add 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the hot wok and swirl to coat.2.Spread the marinated pork in a single layer and let it sear undisturbed for 1 minute.3.Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the pork is just cooked through.4.Remove the pork from the wok and set aside.TIPDon't overcrowd the pan. Sear in batches if needed to avoid steaming the meat. - fry · ~4 min
Stir-fry the vegetables.
1.Add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the wok.2.Add garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 15 seconds until fragrant.3.Toss in cabbage, mushrooms, and carrot. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the cabbage is just tender but still crisp.4.Add the green onion segments and stir-fry for 30 seconds more. - fry · ~1 min
Combine and finish the dish.
1.Return the cooked pork and scrambled eggs to the wok with the vegetables.2.Add the remaining 1.5 tbsp soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice wine vinegar, and salt.3.Toss everything together over high heat for 1 minute until hot and well coated. - assemble
Assemble and serve.
1.Transfer the Moo Shu pork to a warm serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onion.2.Serve immediately with the warm Mandarin pancakes on the side. Let guests spoon the filling onto pancakes and fold like a soft taco.TIPA little extra hoisin sauce spread on the pancake before filling is a classic touch.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Slice pork against the grain for tender strips that won't chewy.
- 2Rest the dough for the full 20 minutes to ensure pliable pancakes.
- 3Cook the pancakes in a dry skillet—oil in the dough prevents sticking.
- 4Don't skip the cornstarch marinade; it creates a velvety coating on the pork.
- 5Work in batches when searing pork to avoid steaming and get a nice brown crust.
- 6For extra fragrance, toast the sesame oil briefly in the wok before adding garlic and ginger.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace pork with 300g extra-firm tofu, crumbled or sliced, and use vegetable broth instead of any chicken-based ingredients. The tofu absorbs the hoisin-soy sauce well, making it a hearty meatless option.
chickenChicken
Substitute pork tenderloin with boneless chicken thigh or breast, sliced thinly. Chicken thighs add more moisture and flavor, perfect for those who prefer poultry over pork.
gluten freeGluten-free
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure hoisin sauce is gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free crepes or lettuce wraps instead of traditional Mandarin pancakes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Pork tenderloin provides high-quality, low-fat protein that supports muscle maintenance and keeps you full longer.
Vitamin C from Cabbage
Green cabbage offers a good source of vitamin C and fiber, aiding immune function and digestion.
Antioxidants from Shiitake
Shiitake mushrooms contain compounds like lentinan that support immune health, plus they add a savory umami flavor without extra sodium.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, cook the pancakes, cool them completely, and store between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container. Reheat in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds before serving.



