Thai Black Pepper Pork, known as Moo Pad Prik Thai Dam, is a classic Thai stir-fry featuring tender pork slices cooked with freshly cracked black pepper, garlic, onions, and colorful vegetables in a rich savory sauce. This dish is famous for its aromatic peppery flavor, quick cooking time, and perfect balance of salty, savory, and mildly spicy notes.

A favorite in Thai restaurants and home kitchens, Black Pepper Pork is typically served with steamed jasmine rice, making it a satisfying and easy meal for any occasion.

What Is Thai Black Pepper Pork?

Moo Pad Prik Thai Dam is a traditional Thai stir-fried pork dish where thin slices of pork are cooked over high heat with vegetables and a flavorful black pepper sauce. Unlike chili-based stir-fries, this dish gets its distinctive character from freshly cracked black pepper, which adds warmth, aroma, and depth without overwhelming heat.

The result is a hearty and delicious meal that highlights the natural flavors of pork and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Pork

  • 500g pork loin or pork shoulder, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil

For the Stir-Fry

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 spring onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon palm sugar or brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons water or pork stock

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Pork

In a bowl, combine pork, cornstarch, soy sauce, and vegetable oil. Mix well and let marinate for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and water until well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Pork

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Stir-fry the pork for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add the remaining oil to the wok. Stir-fry garlic until fragrant, then add onion and bell peppers. Cook for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the pork to the wok. Pour in the prepared sauce and add the freshly cracked black pepper. Stir-fry until the pork and vegetables are evenly coated.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Add spring onions and stir-fry for another minute. Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice.

Tips for the Best Black Pepper Pork

  • Use freshly cracked black pepper for the most intense flavor.
  • Slice the pork thinly to ensure quick and even cooking.
  • Cook over high heat to achieve authentic wok-fired flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking the pork to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your taste.

Variations

Spicy Black Pepper Pork

Add sliced Thai bird's eye chilies for extra heat.

Black Pepper Pork with Mushrooms

Include mushrooms for additional texture and earthy flavor.

Black Pepper Pork and Broccoli

Add broccoli florets for a nutritious variation.

Black Pepper Pork with Cashews

Mix in roasted cashew nuts for a delightful crunch.

What to Serve with Thai Black Pepper Pork

This flavorful stir-fry pairs perfectly with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Brown rice
  • Thai fried rice
  • Stir-fried vegetables
  • Clear soup
  • Fresh cucumber slices

Nutritional Benefits

Pork is rich in:

  • High-quality protein
  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
  • Vitamin B6
  • Zinc
  • Phosphorus

Black pepper provides:

  • Antioxidants
  • Digestive support
  • Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Improved nutrient absorption

Final Thoughts

Thai Black Pepper Pork (Moo Pad Prik Thai Dam) is a simple yet delicious stir-fry that delivers bold peppery flavors and tender pork in every bite. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic black pepper, and savory sauce creates a satisfying dish that is both easy to prepare and packed with authentic Thai taste. Serve it with jasmine rice for a comforting meal that brings the flavors of Thailand straight to your table.