Sweet and Sour Pork is a beloved classic of Chinese cuisine, known for its bright, tangy sauce, crispy pork, and vibrant vegetables. Originating from Cantonese cooking traditions, this dish has gained popularity worldwide for its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or recreating a favorite from your local takeout menu, Sweet and Sour Pork is a fantastic choice for home cooks looking for a rewarding, crowd-pleasing dish.
This recipe breaks everything down into simple steps, so don’t worry if you’re new to cooking. By the end, you’ll have a plate of perfectly cooked pork coated in glossy sweet-and-sour sauce, ready to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Pork:
- 1 lb (450 g) pork shoulder or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (or potato starch)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (slurry for thickening)
Veggies:
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 small onion, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, well-drained)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
- Season the pork cubes with salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Mix well and set aside to marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- After marinating, dip each pork cube into the beaten egg, then coat it in the cornstarch-flour mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for a crispy result.
Step 2: Fry the Pork
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 1.5–2 inches deep.
- Fry the pork in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4–6 minutes or until the pork is golden and crispy. Remove and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Combine ketchup, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and water in a small bowl. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a clean wok or large pan. Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes, until the sauce becomes glossy and smooth.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Veggies
- Heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil in the wok. Add the onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
- Toss in the pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the crispy pork into the wok with the veggies. Pour the sweet-and-sour sauce over the top.
- Gently toss everything together to make sure the pork and veggies are evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your Sweet and Sour Pork to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if you’d like. Serve hot with steamed white rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Pork Cuts: Pork shoulder offers a nice balance of meat and fat, giving a juicy and tender texture. If you prefer leaner meat, pork tenderloin works just as well.
- Crispiness: Fry the pork in batches and avoid crowding the pan. If you want it extra crispy, you can double-fry the pork cubes.
- Substitutions: Use chicken thighs or tofu instead of pork for a twist on the dish. You can also swap out bell peppers with zucchini or carrots based on your preference.
- Presentation: Serve Sweet and Sour Pork in a wide dish with pineapple rings or fresh herbs for a colorful and elegant look.
Why Sweet and Sour Pork is a Winner
One of the best things about Sweet and Sour Pork is its versatility. It can easily fit into casual family dinners or be the centerpiece of a celebratory feast. The contrasting flavors of tangy, sweet, and meaty make it universally appealing, while its vibrant colors add instant cheer to your dining table.
This dish invites creativity, so don’t hesitate to adjust the flavors or add your unique touch. Sweet and Sour Pork is more than just a recipe—it’s a gateway to bringing joy to your loved ones through food. Enjoy!
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