Craving something vibrant and flavorful? This sweet and sour pork recipe brings together tender pieces of pork with a tangy sauce, complemented by colorful vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. With its delightful mix of sweet pineapple and zesty bell peppers, every bite is an explosion of flavor that will satisfy your taste buds and brighten your meal.
Ingredients
– 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe): Calories: 300, Protein: 25g, Carbohydrates: 40g, Fat: 7g, Fiber: 2g. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by marinating the pork pieces in soy sauce for 15 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Add the marinated pork and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Remove the pork and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
7. Stir in the pineapple chunks.
8. In a bowl, mix ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch.
9. Pour the sauce over the vegetables, stirring well.
10. Return the pork to the skillet, mixing everything together and simmering for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute pork with chicken or tofu for a different protein option. You can also replace pineapple with mango or add other vegetables like snap peas or carrots for variety.
Serving and Pairings
Sweet and sour pork pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or spring rolls for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pork can lead to toughness; ensure it is just cooked through.
- Using too much vinegar can overpower the dish; start with less and adjust to taste.
- Not allowing the sauce to thicken can result in a watery dish.
- Forgetting to season the pork before cooking can make it bland.
- Using canned pineapple can make it overly sweet; rinse it if needed.
Helpful Tips
- Slice the pork against the grain for tender pieces.
- Prep all ingredients before cooking to streamline the process.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Consider using a mix of bell peppers for color and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other meats for sweet and sour recipes?
Yes, chicken and shrimp are great alternatives that work well with the sweet and sour sauce.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use leaner cuts of meat, reduce the sugar, and increase the amount of vegetables for a healthier version.
Is sweet and sour pork gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free soy sauce, this dish can be made gluten-free.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and cook them just before serving for the best flavor.
What sides go well with sweet and sour pork?
Steamed rice, fried rice, or even a fresh salad make excellent sides for this dish.
Conclusion
Sweet and sour pork is a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet flavors, making it a family favorite. With its vibrant colors and satisfying taste, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
Sweet And Sour Pork
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the pork pieces in soy sauce for 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the marinated pork and cook until browned on all sides.
- Remove the pork and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the pineapple chunks.
- In a bowl, mix ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch.
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables, stirring well.
- Return the pork to the skillet, mixing everything together and simmering for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Nutrition
