Chinese Sweet-Sour Pork
Chinese Sweet-Sour Pork features tender pork in a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce with pineapple and peppers, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the pork in hot fat.
- Add water; cover and simmer for 1 hour.
- Combine cornstarch, salt, brown sugar, vinegar, pineapple juice, and soy sauce; cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened.
- Pour sauce over hot pork; let stand for 10 minutes.
- Add green peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks; cook for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider coating the pork in cornstarch before browning. You can substitute chicken or tofu for a different protein. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar or use honey. For an extra kick, include some minced garlic or ginger. Serve with Fried Rice (Basic) for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside Fried Rice (Basic) for a hearty meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for added flavor and color. Pair with a light cucumber salad to balance the sweetness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the pork tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Sweet-Sour Pork contains roughly 391 calories, with 3g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1914mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute lean chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may require less time to cook, while tofu should be pressed and drained to remove excess moisture.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat to the sweet-sour sauce, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This will enhance the flavor profile and balance the sweetness with a spicy kick.
What can I serve with Sweet-Sour Pork?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or Fried Rice (Basic). You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad to add crunch and color to your meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).