Sweet 'N Sour Pork Chops
Sweet 'N Sour Pork Chops features tender pork chops simmered in a tangy sweet and sour sauce with fruit cocktail, creating a delightful combination of savory and fruity flavors. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy bold, comforting tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the pork chops in a skillet; pour off excess fat.
- Drain the fruit cocktail, reserving the syrup.
- Add vinegar, cornstarch, salt, brown sugar, minced onion, and dill weed to the syrup; pour over the chops in the skillet.
- Cook, covered, over low heat for 30 minutes or until tender, turning the chops once or twice.
- Remove the meat to a platter.
- Stir the fruit into the sauce and heat to boiling.
- Spoon some sauce over the chops and pass the remaining sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use bone-in pork chops for added flavor and moisture. If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. To thicken the sauce, increase the cornstarch slightly, mixing it well with the syrup before adding to the skillet. For a fresh twist, consider adding bell peppers or pineapple to the fruit cocktail.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sweet 'N Sour Pork Chops with a side of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A refreshing green salad, like Bermuda Summer Salad, can complement the dish nicely. For a heartier meal, pair with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them covered on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet 'N Sour Pork Chops contains roughly 187 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium.
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 boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking. Make sure to check for tenderness after about 20 minutes.
What can I substitute for the fruit cocktail?
You can substitute the fruit cocktail with fresh fruits like diced peaches, pineapple, or apples. Alternatively, use canned fruit in light syrup, which can provide a similar sweetness and texture to the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture before pouring it over the pork chops. You could also serve it with a side of spicy pickles or jalapeños for extra heat.
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).