Crunchy Sweet And Sour Pork
Crunchy sweet and sour pork features tender pork chunks coated in a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce with pineapple and vegetables, perfect for a vibrant Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut pork into bite-size squares. Brown in own fat.
- Add water, cover, and simmer until pork is tender.
- Combine brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, vinegar, pineapple juice, and soy sauce.
- Cook the sauce for 10 minutes.
- Pour sauce over pork and let stand for 30 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients (green pepper, onion, pineapple) and cook for 3 minutes.
- Serve over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider tossing the pork in some breadcrumbs before frying. If you want to reduce the sweetness, substitute half the brown sugar with honey or agave syrup. You can also use any color of bell pepper for a different flavor profile. For a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. This dish is a great way to use up leftover pork from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour pork over fluffy white rice or alongside fried rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. For a fun twist, try serving it with Becky'S Egg Rolls as an appetizer for a complete Asian-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, ensuring even heating. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Sweet And Sour Pork contains roughly 341 calories, with 6g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 chicken or beef for the pork in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as chicken tends to cook faster than pork. For a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu, ensuring to press out excess moisture before cooking.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Ensure that the cornstarch used is also labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same sweet and sour flavors without the gluten.
What can I serve with this dish?
This sweet and sour pork goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a healthier option. You might also enjoy it alongside Chinese Wild Rice Chops for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
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).