Sweet and Sour Pork: A Classic Chinese Favorite

by Sonia

Sweet and Sour Pork is a staple of Chinese cuisine, loved for its irresistible combination of crispy pork bites coated in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce. This dish has a perfect balance of flavors—savory, sweet, and slightly tart—making it a popular choice in both home kitchens and Chinese restaurants worldwide.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this classic dish is sure to delight everyone at the table. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make at home!


Ingredients

For the Pork

  • 400g pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp white pepper

  • 1 egg

  • 1/2 cup cornstarch

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • Oil for frying

For the Sauce

  • 3 tbsp ketchup

  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar

  • 2 tbsp sugar

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

For the Vegetables

  • 1/2 bell pepper, cut into chunks

  • 1/2 onion, cut into chunks

  • 1/2 cup pineapple chunks


Instructions

  1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix pork with salt, white pepper, and egg. Let it sit for 10 minutes.

  2. Coat and Fry: Mix cornstarch and flour, then coat the pork pieces evenly. Heat oil in a wok or deep pan and fry until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

  3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and cornstarch slurry.

  4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In a clean wok, heat a little oil and stir-fry bell pepper, onion, and pineapple for 1-2 minutes.

  5. Combine Everything: Pour the sauce into the wok and cook until it thickens. Add the crispy pork, toss well to coat, and serve hot!


Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Pork

  • Double fry the pork for extra crispiness.

  • Use fresh pineapple for a more natural sweetness.

  • Adjust the sauce to your taste—add more vinegar for extra tanginess or sugar for a sweeter balance.

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed white rice and a side of stir-fried greens. Enjoy a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine right from your own kitchen!

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