Sweet and Sour Pork, a classic Chinese dish that combines succulent pork pieces with colorful vegetables and a tangy, satisfying sauce. This recipe offers a simple method for recreating this restaurant-quality dish at home, allowing you to adjust the sweetness and sourness to your liking.
Most of these ingredients can be found in your pantry or local grocery store. However, rice vinegar and sesame seeds might not be in your everyday pantry. Rice vinegar, used in the sauce, is a type of vinegar made from fermented rice and is sweeter and milder than regular white vinegar. Sesame seeds, used for garnishing, add a nutty taste and a delicate crunch to the dish.
Ingredients for Sweet and Sour Pork
Honey : Used to add a touch of natural sweetness to the sweet and sour sauce.
Rice vinegar: Provides the 'sour' part of the sweet and sour sauce. It is milder and sweeter than regular vinegar.
Soy sauce: It adds a deep salty and umami flavor to the sauce.
Tomato paste: Gives the sauce body, color, and a hint of tanginess.
Pork tenderloin: This is the main protein of the dish, it's lean and tender when cooked properly.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning for the pork.
Flour and cornstarch: Coating for the pork which gives it a crispy texture after frying.
Eggs: Used in the batter for the pork, it helps the flour and cornstarch adhere to the pork.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying the pork.
Garlic and onions: Adds aromatic base to the stir-fry.
Bell peppers: Adds color, texture and sweet flavors to the dish.
Pineapple chunks: Provides a juicy, tart counterbalance to the rich pork and sauce.
Green onions and sesame seeds: Used as garnish, they add color, flavor, and a bit of crunch.
One reader, Elbertine Larson says:
This sweet and sour pork recipe is a game-changer! The pork was perfectly crispy, and the sweet and sour sauce was just the right balance of flavors. The combination of the tender pork, tangy sauce, and colorful veggies made for a delightful and satisfying meal. I'll definitely be making this again!
Techniques Required for Making Sweet and Sour Pork
How to prepare the sweet and sour sauce: Combine honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and tomato paste in a medium-sized bowl. Set aside.
How to make the cornstarch slurry: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until well combined.
How to batter the pork: Season the pork with salt and pepper. Then, coat each piece of pork with the flour mixture, dip it in the whisked egg, and finally coat it again with the flour mixture.
How to fry the pork: Heat oil in a wok or medium-sized pan over medium-high heat to 350 degrees F. Work in 2 to 3 batches, adding the battered pork and frying until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
How to stir-fry the vegetables: Heat the wok over medium-high heat, add oil, and stir-fry the garlic and onions for 30 seconds. Then, add the red and green bell peppers, and stir-fry for 1 minute. Finally, add the pineapple and stir-fry for an additional minute.
How to thicken the sweet and sour sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry and then add it to the pan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 60 seconds.
How to garnish and serve: Garnish the sweet and sour pork with green onions and sesame seeds, then serve it over rice.
How To Make Sweet and Sour Pork
A favorite takeout Chinese dish, this sweet and sour pork recipe is made with battered pork tossed in a sweet and tangy sauce then fried to a crispy finish.
Serves:
Ingredients
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- ½cuphoney
- 6tbsprice vinegar
- 4tspsoy sauce
- 3tbsptomato paste
- 1tbspcornstarch
- 2tbspwater
For the Pork:
- 1½lbspork tenderloin
- 1tspKosher salt,divided
- ½tspblack pepper,divided
- ¾cupall-purpose flour
- ⅓cupcornstarch
- 2eggs,large
- 2cupsvegetable oil
- 1tbspgarlic,minced
- 1cupwhite onions
- 1cupred bell pepper
- 1cupgreen bell pepper
- 1cuppineapple chunks
- 2tbspgreen onion,sliced
- ½tspsesame seeds
Instructions
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In a medium-sized bowl, combine sweet and sour sauce ingredients, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and tomato paste. Set aside.
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In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water.
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Season pork with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.
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In a shallow dish, mix together flour and cornstarch.
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In a separate shallow dish, add eggs and whisk.
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Batter each piece of pork by coating it with the flour mixture then dip in the whisked egg, then a final coat with the flour mixture.
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In a wok or medium-sized pan, heat oil over medium-high heat.
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Once the oil reaches 350 degrees F, work in 2 to 3 batches, adding the battered pork and frying until golden brown and pork is cooked through for about 5 to 7 minutes.
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Transfer pork to a sheet pan and drain on paper towels. Fry the next batch.
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Discard the oil from the wok and carefully wipe the inside of the pan with paper towels to clean.
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Heat the wok over medium-high heat and add in 1 tablespoon of oil.
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Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and onions then stir-fry for 30 seconds.
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Add in the red and green bell peppers, and stir-fry for 1 minute.
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Add in the pineapple and stir-fry for 1 minute.
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Add in the pork and the sweet and sour sauce, stir to combine, and allow the sauce to come to a boil.
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Stir the cornstarch slurry and then add it to the pan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens for about 60 seconds. Mix the ingredients with the sauce to coat the pork.
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Garnish the sweet and sour pork with green onions and sesame seeds then serve over rice.
Nutrition
- Calories: 2870.36kcal
- Fat: 83.15g
- Saturated Fat: 7.15g
- Trans Fat: 0.62g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 56.55g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 14.98g
- Carbohydrates: 506.48g
- Fiber: 8.52g
- Sugar: 285.34g
- Protein: 41.98g
- Cholesterol: 127.03mg
- Sodium: 682.92mg
- Calcium: 121.82mg
- Potassium: 1104.74mg
- Iron: 10.58mg
- Vitamin A: 75.08µg
- Vitamin C: 71.06mg
Crucial Technique for Perfecting Sweet and Sour Pork
When frying the pork, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before adding the meat. If the oil is not hot enough, the pork will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Conversely, if the oil is too hot, the outside of the pork will burn before the inside is cooked. Using a cooking thermometer can help ensure the oil is at the perfect temperature for frying.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sweet and Sour Pork
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and equipment before starting to cook to streamline the process.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Save time by using pre-cut vegetables, or consider prepping them in advance to have them ready to go when needed.
Multitask: While the pork is frying, prepare the vegetables or mix the sweet and sour sauce to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Organize the workspace: Keep the cooking area organized and clean as you work to avoid wasting time searching for tools or ingredients.
Invest in a good wok: Using a high-quality wok can help distribute heat evenly, allowing for faster cooking and better results.
Prep ahead: Consider marinating the pork in advance to enhance flavor and reduce cooking time when preparing the dish.
Utilize kitchen gadgets: Use kitchen tools such as a food processor or mandoline to quickly and efficiently prepare ingredients like onions and bell peppers.
Substitute Ingredients For Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup has a similar sweetness and viscosity to honey, and it will provide a rich, complex flavor to the sweet and sour sauce.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor compared to rice vinegar, which can complement the sweet and sour profile of the dish.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, and it offers a similar umami-rich, savory flavor that can enhance the depth of the sweet and sour sauce.
tomato paste - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can be used as a substitute for tomato paste in the sweet and sour sauce, providing a tangy sweetness and a hint of acidity.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent similar to cornstarch, and it will help create a glossy, smooth texture in the sweet and sour sauce.
pork tenderloin - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a leaner alternative to pork tenderloin, and it will absorb the flavors of the sweet and sour sauce well.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour for coating the pork, providing a crispy texture when fried.
vegetable oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for frying the pork while adding a subtle nuttiness to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for chopping or mincing.
white onions - Substitute with yellow onions: Yellow onions can be used as a substitute for white onions, offering a slightly sweeter and milder flavor that complements the dish.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell pepper can be used as a substitute for red bell pepper, providing a similar sweet and crisp texture to the dish.
green bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell pepper can be used as a substitute for green bell pepper, adding a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
pineapple chunks - Substitute with canned mandarin oranges: Canned mandarin oranges can be used as a substitute for pineapple chunks, offering a sweet and citrusy flavor that complements the sweet and sour profile of the dish.
green onion - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for green onions, providing a mild onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish for the sweet and sour pork.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chopped peanuts: Chopped peanuts can be used as a substitute for sesame seeds, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
Presenting Sweet and Sour Pork for Maximum Appeal
Elevate the plating: When presenting the sweet and sour pork, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use white plates to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out. Arrange the pork, vegetables, and pineapple chunks meticulously to create a visually stunning dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use the sweet and sour sauce to create an artistic drizzle on the plate. This not only adds a pop of flavor but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.
Garnish with precision: Garnish the sweet and sour pork with finely chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. This adds a touch of freshness and texture to the dish, elevating its visual appeal.
Balance the elements: Pay attention to the balance of colors and textures on the plate. Ensure that the pork, vegetables, and pineapple are distributed evenly, creating a harmonious and visually balanced presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to breathe. Avoid overcrowding the plate and let the elements speak for themselves, creating a sophisticated and refined presentation.
Consider the plate shape: Choose a plate that complements the dish. Opt for a round plate to create a sense of movement and flow, enhancing the overall visual impact of the sweet and sour pork.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the finer details, such as wiping the edges of the plate to ensure a clean presentation. Every detail matters when presenting a dish of this caliber.
Essential Tools for Making This Recipe
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for slicing, dicing, and chopping various ingredients.
- Wok: A versatile round-bottomed cooking vessel used for stir-frying, steaming, and deep-frying.
- Tongs: A kitchen utensil with two arms and a pivot near the handle, used for gripping and lifting.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure ingredients for recipes.
- Deep fryer: A kitchen appliance used for deep-frying foods.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces and boiling liquids.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending and mixing ingredients.
- Slotted spoon: A spoon with slots or holes that allow liquid to pass through, used for lifting and draining foods.
- Spatula: A flat cooking utensil with a handle, used for flipping and lifting foods.
- Paper towels: Used for absorbing excess oil and moisture from foods.
Storing and Freezing Sweet and Sour Pork for Later
- Allow the sweet and sour pork to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave the pork until it's heated through or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- If you want to freeze the sweet and sour pork, place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw, transfer the frozen pork to the refrigerator and let it defrost overnight.
- Reheat the thawed pork in the microwave or on the stovetop until it's heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- If the sauce appears too thick after thawing and reheating, add a little water or chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- For best results, store the rice separately from the sweet and sour pork to prevent it from becoming soggy during storage and reheating.
How To Reheat Leftover Sweet and Sour Pork
- Reheat the sweet and sour pork in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pork from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
- For a crispy texture, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the leftover sweet and sour pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the pork is heated through and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Microwave the leftover sweet and sour pork in a microwave-safe container. Cover the container with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering and help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the pork is heated through.
- If you have leftover rice, create a quick fried rice dish by heating some oil in a skillet or wok, adding the rice, and stir-frying for a few minutes. Add the leftover sweet and sour pork and mix well. Cook until everything is heated through and well combined.
- For a fun twist, use the leftover sweet and sour pork as a filling for tacos, burritos, or lettuce wraps. Simply reheat the pork mixture in a skillet or microwave, and serve it in your preferred wrapper with fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and chopped green onions.
Interesting Trivia About Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and sour pork is a popular Chinese dish that originated in Cantonese cuisine. It is believed to have been introduced to the United States by Chinese immigrants in the 20th century. The dish typically combines crispy, deep-fried pork with a tangy sweet and sour sauce made from ingredients such as vinegar, sugar, and ketchup. The combination of flavors and textures in sweet and sour pork makes it a favorite in both Chinese restaurants and home kitchens around the world.
Is Making Sweet and Sour Pork at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this sweet and sour pork recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as pork tenderloin, vegetable oil, and bell peppers, are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The dish provides a substantial amount of food for a family of four at an approximate cost of $20. The flavorful combination of sweet and sour sauce with tender pork and assorted vegetables makes it a satisfying and budget-friendly meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is Sweet and Sour Pork Healthy or Unhealthy?
The sweet and sour pork recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that make it less than healthy. Here's a breakdown:
- The deep-frying process used to cook the pork adds a significant amount of oil and fat to the dish, increasing its calorie content.
- The sweet and sour sauce contains a considerable amount of sugar from the honey and tomato paste, which can contribute to excessive sugar intake if consumed regularly.
- On the positive side, the recipe incorporates a variety of vegetables, including onions, bell peppers, and pineapple, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Instead of deep-frying the pork, try baking or stir-frying it with a minimal amount of oil. This will significantly reduce the fat content of the dish.
- Reduce the amount of honey in the sweet and sour sauce and replace some of it with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract. You can also increase the amount of vinegar to balance out the sweetness.
- Add more vegetables to the dish, such as carrots, broccoli, or snap peas, to increase the fiber content and provide a wider range of nutrients.
- Serve the sweet and sour pork with brown rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
- Use lean cuts of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Dish
The sweet and sour pork recipe is a delightful combination of crispy pork, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy, flavorful sauce. The method of battering and frying the pork creates a satisfying crunch, while the sweet and sour sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. The addition of pineapple adds a refreshing twist, and the colorful bell peppers bring a beautiful contrast to the dish. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a delightful choice for a special meal.
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Why trust this Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe:
This recipe is a tried and tested classic, using authentic sweet and sour sauce ingredients for a truly traditional flavor. The combination of honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The use of high-quality pork tenderloin ensures a tender and juicy texture, while the addition of fresh garlic, onions, and colorful bell peppers adds depth and vibrancy to the dish. The incorporation of pineapple chunks provides a delightful burst of sweetness, elevating the overall taste. This recipe guarantees a delightful sweet and sour pork experience that's both authentic and delicious.
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