Introduction
Sweet and Sour Pork is a delightful Chinese-inspired dish that balances the savory richness of pork with the fresh, tangy taste of pineapple and bell peppers. This dish is as visually appealing as it is tasty, combining the classic flavors of East Asian cuisine in a sauce that’s rich, glossy, and irresistible.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Pork:
- 500 grams of pork shoulder or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cornstarch, for coating
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh pineapple, cut into cubes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, for sautéing
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork:
- Season the pork pieces with salt and black pepper. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Coat each pork cube generously with cornstarch, ensuring an even layer for extra crispiness.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the pork cubes until golden brown and crispy on the outside, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Place the fried pork on a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
2. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and pineapple juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, which will help thicken the sauce.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers, sautéing them until they’re just tender, around 3-4 minutes.
- Add the fresh pineapple chunks and cook for an additional minute, just until they’re slightly caramelized but not mushy.
4. Combine and Finish:
- Pour the sweet and sour sauce into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir continuously until it starts to simmer.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and continue stirring until the sauce thickens and has a glossy, smooth texture.
- Finally, add the fried pork pieces to the skillet, gently tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer your Sweet and Sour Pork to a serving plate, garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice for a classic experience!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 20 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Vitamin C: 60% of the daily value
Health Benefits of Sweet and Sour Pork
- Rich in Protein: Pork is an excellent source of high-quality protein, crucial for muscle repair and overall growth.
- Antioxidant-Rich Vegetables: Bell peppers and pineapple are both packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, which help strengthen immunity and protect cells from damage.
- Balanced Macronutrients: This dish contains a healthy balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a satisfying meal that provides lasting energy.
- Moderate Carbohydrates: The sweet and sour sauce adds a controlled amount of carbs, offering a quick source of energy and making it ideal for pairing with whole grains.
- Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Sweet and Sour Pork contains a range of vitamins such as B vitamins from pork and vitamin C from bell peppers and pineapple, which are essential for energy production and immune health.
Tips for a Perfect Sweet and Sour Pork
- Opt for Fresh Pineapple: While canned pineapple can work in a pinch, fresh pineapple adds a vibrant taste and texture.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar slightly or swap it for honey for a natural sweetness.
- Keep the Pork Crispy: For maximum crispiness, consider double-frying the pork pieces. Fry them once, let them cool, then fry them a second time before adding to the sauce.
- Experiment with Veggies: Add more vegetables like zucchini or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
Sweet and Sour Pork is not only a culinary favorite, but it’s also a dish that offers unique textures, bold flavors, and a satisfying balance of nutrients. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that showcases the harmony between savory and sweet. Enjoy your homemade Sweet and Sour Pork and embrace the delicious flavors of this classic recipe!