Sweet 'N Sour Pork
Sweet 'N Sour Pork offers a delightful balance of tender pork, tangy pineapple, and colorful vegetables coated in a savory sauce. This quick stir-fry is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that combines sweet and sour flavors with a satisfying crunch, appealing to both family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thinly slice the pork into bite-sized strips and set aside.
- Preheat a wok or large skillet over high heat.
- In a bowl, stir together the teriyaki sauce, cornstarch, and seasoning from the frozen vegetables to make the sauce. Set aside.
- Add cooking oil to the skillet.
- Stir-fry the pork over high heat for about 3 minutes or until no longer pink, then remove from the skillet.
- Add the frozen vegetables, undrained pineapple tidbits, and water to the skillet.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables and pineapple.
- Cook and stir over medium-high heat until the sauce thickens and becomes bubbly, about 2 minutes.
- Return the cooked pork to the skillet and stir in for 30 seconds to reheat.
- Serve the sweet and sour pork over chow mein noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the pork in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. You can substitute the pork with chicken or tofu for a different protein. If you want extra crunch, add water chestnuts or cashews to the stir-fry. Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of brown sugar if desired, enhancing the balance in your Sweet And Sour Pork Kabobs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour pork over a bed of chow mein noodles for a satisfying meal. Pair it with steamed rice or Fried Rice (Japanese) for a more filling option. A side of spring rolls or a fresh cucumber salad can complement the dish nicely, providing a balance of textures and flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet 'N Sour Pork contains roughly 459 calories, with 10g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 873mg per serving (38% 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 fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas can be used. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh veggies may need a bit longer to cook through than frozen ones.
What can I use if I don’t have teriyaki sauce?
If you don't have teriyaki sauce, you can create a quick alternative by mixing soy sauce, honey, and a splash of rice vinegar. This will give a similar sweet and savory profile, making it a great substitute for your sweet and sour pork.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pork and sauce ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge and combine them with the vegetables just before serving. This way, you'll save time while still enjoying a fresh-tasting 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).