Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with this mouthwatering Spicy Sweet and Sour Pork recipe! Imagine crispy, golden pork pieces perfectly coated in a tantalizing sauce that balances sweet, sour, and spicy flavors in every single bite. Whether you're craving a restaurant-quality meal or looking to impress your family and friends, this Chinese-inspired dish will become your new go-to recipe that promises to elevate your home cooking game.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the pork by slicing the tenderloin into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch thick. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to ensure crispy coating.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Coat each pork slice thoroughly in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add pork pieces and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and chili flakes to create the sweet and sour sauce. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and bell peppers for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add pineapple chunks and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour the prepared sweet and sour sauce into the skillet with vegetables. Stir and let it simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the crispy pork pieces to the skillet, tossing gently to coat evenly with sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat the meat and allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with additional chili flakes or green onions if desired. Enjoy the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Tips
- Meat Preparation is Key: Always pat your pork tenderloin dry before coating to ensure maximum crispiness. The drier the meat, the crunchier the exterior!
- Oil Temperature Matters: Use a medium-high heat and ensure your oil is hot enough before adding pork. The right temperature prevents soggy coating and creates that perfect golden-brown crunch.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Fry pork in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of frying.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes according to your heat tolerance. Start with less and add more if you want an extra kick.
- Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Use fresh pineapple chunks if possible for a brighter, more vibrant flavor profile.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh, right out of the skillet to maintain the crispy texture of the pork.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 279kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg
