Sweet and Sour Pork is a popular Chinese dish that features crispy pieces of pork coated in a tangy and slightly sweet sauce. The dish is typically made using bite-sized pork (often tenderloin or shoulder) that is battered and deep-fried until golden brown. The sauce consists of ingredients like vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce, producing a distinct sweet and tangy flavor. It's often stir-fried with colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, which add freshness and texture. Sweet and Sour Pork is commonly served over rice or as part of a larger meal, making it a favorite for its delicious contrast of flavors and crunchy texture.

Sweet and Sour Pork in the photo.

Here's a simple recipe for making Sweet and Sour Pork at home:

Ingredients:

• For the Pork:

  • 1 pound pork tenderloin or shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Oil for frying

• For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup vinegar (preferably rice vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

• For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 cup bell peppers, cut into chunks (mixed colors)
  • 1 medium onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork:

   • Dip the pork pieces in the beaten eggs, then coat them in cornstarch.
   • Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the pork in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

2. Make the Sauce:

   • In a small saucepan, combine sugar, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and water. Bring to a boil, then stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Cook for another minute until sauce is glossy. Remove from heat.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:

   • In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and stir-fry the bell peppers and onion for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for another minute.

4. Combine Everything:

   • Return the crispy pork to the pan and pour the sweet and sour sauce over everything. Toss to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over steamed rice.

Enjoy your homemade Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork!