Sweet And Sour Pork

Name: Sweet And Sour Pork
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb pork tenderloin (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 cup bell peppers (chopped); 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1 onion (sliced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Indulge in the delightful flavors of sweet and sour pork, a beloved dish that balances savory and tangy elements in every bite. This recipe brings together tender chunks of pork, colorful bell peppers, and a luscious sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, sweet and sour pork is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this classic dish!

Ingredients

– 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup bell peppers (red, green, yellow), chopped
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 300 calories, 20g of protein, 22g of carbohydrates, and 15g of fat. This is based on one serving size and can vary based on ingredient brands.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Start by marinating the pork pieces in soy sauce, garlic, and pepper for 10 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the marinated pork and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the onions and bell peppers, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for another 2 minutes.
7. In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch to create the sauce.
8. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir well, cooking until thickened, about 2 minutes.
9. Return the pork to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated with the sauce.
10. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute pork tenderloin with chicken thighs or tofu for a vegetarian option. Pineapple can be replaced with mango for a different sweet flavor, and rice vinegar can be swapped with apple cider vinegar if needed.

Serving and Pairings

Sweet and sour pork pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover sweet and sour pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. It can be frozen for up to a month; just ensure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pork can make it tough; ensure it’s cooked just right.
Not marinating long enough may result in less flavor.
Using low-quality soy sauce can affect the overall taste.
Skipping the cornstarch step may lead to a watery sauce.
Forgetting to season the vegetables can make them bland.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of sesame oil at the end.
Use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant taste.
Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar.
Keep the veggies crisp by not overcooking them.

FAQs

What is the best cut of pork for sweet and sour pork?

The best cut of pork for sweet and sour pork is pork tenderloin, as it’s tender and cooks quickly. You can also use pork shoulder for a richer flavor, but it will take longer to cook.

Can I make sweet and sour pork ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pork and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

Is sweet and sour pork gluten-free?

Sweet and sour pork is not gluten-free due to soy sauce. However, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute.

How can I make sweet and sour pork healthier?

To make it healthier, use lean cuts of pork, reduce sugar in the sauce, and add more vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients.

What can I serve with sweet and sour pork?

Sweet and sour pork is great with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Sweet and sour pork is a timeless dish that brings joy to any table. With its perfect balance of flavors and easy preparation, it’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of savory pork and tangy sauce!