When I think of comfort food, Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork always comes to mind. This dish is a vibrant explosion of flavors that can brighten any weeknight dinner.
It’s perfect for those busy days when you want to whip up something quick yet impressive. The tender pork, coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, paired with colorful veggies, makes it a family favorite.
Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to the table. Let’s dive into this delightful culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork
This Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork is a game-changer for your dinner routine.
It’s quick to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish.
The balance of sweet and tangy flavors will have your taste buds dancing.
Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish delivers satisfaction every time.
Ingredients for Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork
Creating a delicious Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Pork tenderloin: The star of the dish, tender and juicy, perfect for frying.
All-purpose flour: This helps create a crispy coating on the pork.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavor of the pork.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying, it gives the pork that golden-brown finish.
Pineapple chunks: Adds a sweet and tangy element, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Bell pepper: Choose red or green for a pop of color and crunch.
Onion: Provides a savory base that complements the sweetness of the sauce.
Sugar: The key to that signature sweet flavor in the sauce.
Apple cider vinegar: Brings the tanginess that makes this dish so refreshing.
Ketchup: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness to the sauce.
Soy sauce: A must for that umami kick, enhancing the overall flavor.
Cornstarch: Mixed with water, it thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Feel free to get creative! You can add snap peas or carrots for extra color and nutrition. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider baking the pork instead of frying.
For those who prefer alternatives, chicken or tofu can easily replace the pork.
Exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article for your convenience. Happy cooking!
How to Make Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork
Making Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork is a straightforward process that brings a burst of flavor to your table. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Start by cutting your pork tenderloin into bite-sized pieces.
In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.
Dredge each piece of pork in the flour mixture until it’s well coated.
This coating will help create that crispy texture we all love.
Set the coated pork aside while you heat the oil.
Step 2: Fry the Pork
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated pork pieces in batches.
Fry them for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking and that perfect crunch.
Once done, remove the pork and let it drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and bell pepper.
Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
This step adds a savory base that complements the sweet and sour sauce beautifully.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce.
Pour this mixture into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
Bring it to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
This sauce is the heart of your Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork, so don’t rush it!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Now, add the pineapple chunks to the skillet, stirring well to combine.
Next, slowly add the cornstarch mixture while stirring constantly.
This will thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency, making it cling beautifully to the pork.
Let it cook for another minute or two until it’s nice and thick.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Finally, return the fried pork to the skillet.
Toss everything together, ensuring the pork is well coated in that luscious sweet and sour sauce.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, and watch your family dig in with delight!
Tips for Success
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness.
Don’t skip the draining step after frying; it keeps the pork crispy.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the sauce.
For extra flavor, marinate the pork in soy sauce for 30 minutes before coating.
Experiment with different vegetables to suit your taste!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet or wok: Essential for frying and sautéing. A non-stick pan works well too.
Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients and coating the pork.
Meat thermometer: Helpful for checking pork doneness, but not mandatory.
Slotted spoon: Great for removing fried pork from the oil.
Variations
Sweet and Sour Chicken: Swap out the pork for chicken breast or thighs for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Delight: Use tofu or tempeh instead of meat, and add more colorful veggies like zucchini or broccoli.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Fruit Fusion: Experiment with different fruits like mango or peaches for a unique flavor profile.
Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a healthier alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Steamed Rice: Serve your Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork over fluffy white or jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Noodles: Try it with lo mein or rice noodles for a delightful twist.
Fresh Salad: A crisp cucumber or Asian slaw salad adds a refreshing crunch.
Drink Pairing: Pair with a light beer or iced green tea for a perfect balance.
FAQs about Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork
Can I make Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork and sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the pork and sauce together in a skillet for a quick meal.
What can I substitute for pork in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken or tofu works wonderfully. Both options absorb the sweet and sour sauce beautifully, making them great substitutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt.
What sides pair well with Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork?
Steamed rice or noodles are classic choices. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table.
The vibrant colors and delightful aromas fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather and share stories.
Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings joy and satisfaction.
So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the smiles that come with serving this family favorite!
A delicious and vibrant dish featuring tender pork coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, complemented by colorful vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
1/2 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (red or green)
1/2 cup onion, diced
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Instructions
In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the pork pieces in the flour mixture until well coated.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the coated pork pieces in batches and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
In the same skillet, add the onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and bring to a simmer.
Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet and stir well.
Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Return the fried pork to the skillet and toss to coat in the sweet and sour sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
For a healthier version, you can bake the coated pork in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
Add vegetables like snap peas or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
You can also substitute chicken or tofu for the pork if desired.
