Microwave Sweet And Sour Pork
A quick and flavorful microwave sweet and sour pork dish featuring tender pork bites, pineapple, and vibrant green peppers in a tangy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the pork chops and teriyaki sauce in a deep 2-quart heat-resistant, non-metallic casserole dish and marinate overnight.
- Remove the meat from the teriyaki sauce, reserving any remaining sauce.
- Brown the pork pieces in a skillet on a conventional stove surface.
- Add pineapple chunks (with juice), sweet and sour sauce, brown sugar, and green peppers to the dish.
- Optional: Mix in cornstarch to thicken the sauce if desired.
- Microwave the mixture on high until heated through and the peppers are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, let the pork chop marinate in teriyaki sauce for a full 24 hours. If you want a different approach, try using chicken breasts instead of pork. You can also substitute the sweet and sour sauce with homemade versions or even use honey for sweetness. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding chili flakes or sriracha to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour pork over steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal. It pairs well with sides like Cantonese carrots and green peppers or a fresh salad. For a complete dinner, consider serving with stir-fry greens and mushrooms, which will complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Sweet And Sour Pork contains roughly 549 calories, with 17g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (409% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1262mg per serving (55% 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 easily substitute pork with chicken, tofu, or even beef for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken and tofu will require less time than pork to cook through.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish healthier, use lean cuts of pork and reduce the amount of teriyaki and sweet and sour sauces. You can also increase the amount of vegetables by adding more bell peppers or incorporating broccoli or snap peas, which add nutrition and color.
Can I freeze the sweet and sour pork?
Yes, you can freeze the sweet and sour pork. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
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).