Sweet and Sour Pork is a beloved dish that combines crispy pork with a vibrant, tangy sauce. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Chinese cooking, bringing together the juiciness of pork, the sweetness of pineapple, and the crunch of fresh bell peppers.
Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its colorful ingredients. It’s a classic choice that never fails to satisfy a craving for something sweet, savory, and sour all at once.
Why This Recipe Works
This Sweet and Sour Pork recipe shines because of its perfect balance of flavors. The pork, when fried, becomes wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, making each bite satisfyingly juicy. The sauce, a harmonious mix of vinegar, tomato ketchup, and sugar, clings to the pork and vegetables, delivering a burst of sweet and tangy flavors that define this dish. The addition of pineapple not only enhances the sweetness but also adds a slight tartness that complements the sauce, making the flavors stand out even more.
Another reason to try this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. It uses ingredients that are readily available and includes straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. Plus, the dish can be easily adjusted to suit different tastes or dietary needs, such as substituting pork for chicken or tofu. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a festive meal, this recipe promises a delightful dish that'll be enjoyed by all, proving that you don’t need complicated techniques to achieve a meal that’s rich in flavor and tradition.
Ingredients
Pork (shoulder or loin) - Tender and flavorful, ideal for frying. Substitute: Chicken or tofu for a lighter version.
Bell Peppers (red and green) - Adds a colorful crunch. Substitute: Snap peas or carrots for different textures.
Pineapple - Provides a juicy, tangy sweetness. Substitute: Mango or peach can offer a similar sweetness.
White Vinegar - Gives the dish its distinctive sour flavor. Substitute: Apple cider vinegar for a milder tang.
Tomato Ketchup - Serves as the base for the sauce, adding sweetness and depth. Substitute: Tomato paste mixed with a little sugar and vinegar.
Tips
- Cut the pork into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Use fresh pineapple if possible for better flavor and texture.
- Double the sauce ingredients if you prefer your dish saucier.
- Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Fry the pork until just golden; it will continue to cook in the sauce.
How to Serve
Sweet and Sour Pork is best served hot, typically over a bed of steamed white rice which helps to soak up the delicious sauce. For a balanced meal, consider pairing it with a simple vegetable stir-fry or a fresh cucumber salad to add a refreshing element.
- Over jasmine rice for a classic pairing.
- Alongside chow mein noodles for a hearty dish.
- Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a lighter, low-carb option.
Similar Recipes
Sweet and Sour Pork
Ingredients
- 500 g pork shoulder cut into cubes
- 1 each red and green bell pepper diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- 4 tablespoons tomato ketchup
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
- Optional: spring onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and fry until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add more oil if needed and sauté garlic, onion, and bell peppers until slightly tender.
- Add the pineapple chunks and fry for another 2 minutes.
- Return the pork to the pan. Add vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir well.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the pork is fully cooked.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with spring onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
• Use fresh pineapple if possible for better flavor and texture.
• Double the sauce ingredients if you prefer your dish saucier.
• Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
• Fry the pork until just golden; it will continue to cook in the sauce.