Sweet and Sour Pork is a beloved Chinese takeout classic that brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dish features crispy pieces of pork tossed in a glossy sauce that is both tangy and sweet, enhanced by the vibrant colors of bell peppers and juicy pineapple chunks. The delightful contrast of crunchy vegetables and tender pork makes every bite a treat. Easy to prepare at home, Sweet and Sour Pork is a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. Perfect for both special occasions and everyday dinners, this dish is sure to please family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork shoulder or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the pork:
- Season the pork cubes with salt and black pepper. Dip each piece into the beaten eggs, then coat with cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
- Fry the pork:
- Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the pork cubes in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Set aside.
- Stir-fry the vegetables:
- In a clean skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until just tender.
- Combine ingredients:
- Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet, followed by the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Finish the dish:
- Add the fried pork back to the skillet and toss everything together until the pork is well coated with the sauce and heated through.
- Serve:
- Serve the Sweet and Sour Pork hot, with steamed rice or noodles on the side.
Enjoy your Sweet and Sour Pork as a deliciously balanced dish that brings a taste of classic Chinese cuisine to your table, perfect for any occasion!
