Sweet and Sour Pork
Hey there, friend!
If you’re craving something that’s equal parts sweet, tangy, and downright delicious, you’ve come to the right place.
My Sweet and Sour Pork recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
Imagine tender bites of pork coated in a crispy golden crust, tossed in a vibrant sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
It’s a dish that’ll transport your taste buds to your favorite Chinese takeout spot—but with the added bonus of being homemade and oh-so-satisfying.
How to Make It
Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Step 1: Prep the Pork
Start by cutting your pork tenderloin into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat. In a small bowl, season the pork with soy sauce, salt, and pepper, and let it marinate for about 10 minutes. This step infuses the meat with flavor and keeps it tender. While the pork marinates, prepare the batter by whisking together cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and a beaten egg in a separate bowl. The batter should be thick enough to coat the pork but still drip slightly.
Step 2: Fry to Perfection
Heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small bit of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re good to go. Dip each piece of marinated pork into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated, then carefully place it in the hot oil. Fry the pork in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and make the pork soggy. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the pork is golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried pork to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Whip Up the Sauce
While the pork rests, it’s time to make the sweet and sour sauce. In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ketchup, and brown sugar. Whisk the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding a bit more sugar or vinegar if needed.
Step 4: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet used for frying (or a clean one if preferred), heat a teaspoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until the veggies are slightly tender but still crisp. This step adds a fresh, vibrant element to the dish and balances the richness of the fried pork.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add the crispy pork pieces to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over everything and gently toss to coat. Make sure every piece of pork and every veggie is evenly covered in that glossy, mouthwatering sauce. Let everything heat through for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Sweet and Sour Pork to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions. These finishing touches add a pop of color and a hint of nuttiness. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Pro Tips
- Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: Fry the pork once to cook it through, then fry it again just before serving for an extra-crispy texture.
- Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a brighter, tangier flavor compared to canned.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the pork in batches to ensure it cooks evenly and stays crispy.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain the pork’s crispiness.
- Avoid freezing, as the sauce may separate and the pork can lose its texture.
Sweet and Sour Pork: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
Description
This Sweet and Sour Pork recipe features tender, crispy pork pieces tossed in a vibrant, glossy sauce with colorful veggies and juicy pineapple.
It’s quick, flavorful, and tastes just like your favorite Chinese takeout—but even better!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate the pork in soy sauce, salt, and pepper for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, and egg to create a batter. Coat the pork pieces evenly.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the pork until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, vinegar, ketchup, and brown sugar. Simmer until thickened.
- Sauté bell peppers, onions, and pineapple in a pan for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the fried pork to the pan and pour the sauce over it. Toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 380kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Total Carbohydrate 42g15%
- Sugars 22g
- Protein 24g48%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Notes:
- For a healthier version, bake the pork instead of frying.
- Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce to your preference.
- Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.
These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.
