Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure? This Pork in Honey and Chili Sauce is not just a recipe—it's a tantalizing journey of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Asia. Imagine tender pork strips glazed in a glossy, mouth-watering sauce that perfectly balances the warmth of honey with the fiery kick of chili, creating a dish so irresistible that your family and friends will be begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, sliced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the pork tenderloin into thin strips, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Mince the garlic cloves and set them aside.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, chili paste, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture together until well combined. This will be your marinade and sauce.
- Place the sliced pork into a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the honey and chili sauce mixture over the pork, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated pork strips to the skillet, reserving the marinade for later use.
- Sauté the pork for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pork is browned and cooked through. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Once the pork is cooked, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a bit more chili paste at this stage.
- Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the pork in honey and chili sauce over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired, and enjoy your delicious Asian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Meat Preparation: For the most tender results, slice your pork tenderloin against the grain and ensure uniform thickness to guarantee even cooking.
- Marinating Magic: Don't rush the marinating process! While 15 minutes works, allowing the pork to marinate for up to 2 hours will dramatically enhance the flavor penetration.
- Heat Control: Use medium-high heat to achieve a beautiful caramelization on the pork without burning the sugars in the honey.
- Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of water or chicken broth.
- Spice Level Adjustment: Customize the heat by increasing or decreasing the chili paste according to your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
