Pork Chops Sweet 'N Sour
Sweet 'N Sour Pork Chops feature tender pork with a tangy, sweet glaze highlighted by pineapple juice and brown sugar. The dish balances savory and sweet flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy bold, flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together ginger, salt, black pepper, paprika, and flour.
- Dredge the pork chops in the flour mixture.
- Melt shortening in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the pork chops in hot fat slowly until cooked through.
- Combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, and vinegar in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Serve the pork chops topped with the sweet and sour sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider using coconut milk instead of pineapple juice for a creamier sauce. If you don't have shortening, butter or oil can be used for browning the pork chops. Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chops; this helps achieve a nice sear. You can also add diced bell peppers to the sauce for added color and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pork Chops Sweet 'N Sour over a bed of rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Wilted Lettuce Salad (Microwave) for a fresh side. For a heartier option, consider serving with mashed potatoes or a warm bread roll to soak up the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover the skillet to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can microwave them on a low setting, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops Sweet 'N Sour contains roughly 265 calories, with 13g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1219mg per serving (53% 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 bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes, you can definitely use bone-in pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time as they may require a bit longer to cook through. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can make your own by mixing white sugar with a bit of molasses, or use honey or maple syrup as a substitute. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet and sour sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it on the stove before serving, and consider adding a splash of water if it thickens too much during storage.
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).