Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe

The sweet and sour pork recipe I’m about to share with you is a delightful take on a classic favorite, combining crispy pork and a vibrant sauce that hits all the right notes. It’s a dish that captures the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making each mouthful a burst of flavor. Keep reading to discover how to recreate this iconic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen!

Growing up, this dish was a staple at family gatherings, and I have a fond memory of my grandmother teaching me the secrets of perfecting the rich, glossy sauce. Every time I make this recipe, it brings back warm memories of sitting around the dining table with loved ones, eagerly awaiting our turn to dig into the savory-sweet perfection served in my grandmother’s favorite porcelain dish. It’s become a favorite in my household, and I’m excited to pass on the tradition to you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for many reasons. First, it’s surprisingly easy to make even if you’re new to the kitchen. It uses simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. The balance of sweet and sour is spot-on, bringing a taste of authentic Asian cuisine to your table. Additionally, the crispy texture of the fried pork pairs beautifully with the glossy sauce, making for a satisfying and unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients Notes

For this recipe, you’ll need fresh pork loin, which provides tender yet firm meat perfect for frying. You can substitute pork shoulder if you like a juicier cut. The key ingredient for the sauce is rice vinegar which provides a natural tanginess—feel free to use apple cider vinegar as a substitute in a pinch. Lastly, don’t skip the fresh bell peppers; they add not just color but also a subtle sweetness that complements the dish.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by cutting the pork loin into bite-sized cubes. Season lightly with salt and coat with cornflour for an extra crispy texture when fried.

Step 2

Preheat your oil in a deep pan. Once hot, fry the pork cubes in batches until golden and crispy. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3

In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce to create the tangy sweet and sour sauce. Let it simmer gently while stirring.

Step 4

Add sliced bell peppers and pineapple chunks to the sauce, and let them cook through until they are slightly tender yet still vibrant.

Step 5

Add the crispy pork back into the sauce and toss until everything is well-coated. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, transfer the sweet and sour pork into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in a microwave until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

For a lighter version, try baking the pork instead of deep-frying it. If you’re vegetarian, substitute the pork with firm tofu or tempeh for a similar experience. You can also experiment with different vegetables; snap peas or baby corn make excellent additions to the sauce for more variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of pork? Yes, chicken thighs make a great substitution for pork in this recipe. Simply cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same preparation and cooking steps. You’ll find the result equally delicious and satisfying.

What if I’m allergic to pineapple? No worries! You can replace the pineapple chunks with a sugar snap pea or even some diced mango for a subtly different sweet element that pairs nicely with the sauce.

How do I prevent the fried pork from becoming soggy? The key is to not overcrowd your frying pan; fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature for a crispy exterior. Adding the pork to the sauce just before serving helps keep it from becoming soggy too quickly.

Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe

This Sweet and Sour Pork recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors in a delicious and indulgent dish.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 pounds pork shoulder cut into bite-sized pieces
• ▢ 0.5 cup pineapple chunks canned or fresh
• ▢ 1 bell pepper red bell pepper sliced
• ▢ 0.25 cup soy sauce
• ▢ 0.5 cup vinegar rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, and pineapple juice. Set aside.
• Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add pork pieces. Cook until browned on all sides.
• Add bell pepper and pineapple chunks to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
• Pour the sauce mixture over the pork and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
• Simmer for 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Notes

For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce.