Description
If you’re searching for a delightful dish that combines savory and tangy flavors, look no further than this Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe. This classic dish features tender pieces of pork coated in a luscious sweet and sour sauce that is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe brings the taste of takeout right into your kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients
Pork Tenderloin
For this recipe, you will need 1 pound of pork tenderloin. This cut is lean yet flavorful, allowing it to absorb the sweet and sour sauce beautifully. Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Bell Peppers
Use 1 red bell pepper and 1 green bell pepper. These add vibrant color as well as sweetness and crunch to the dish. Slice them into strips so they blend seamlessly with the pork.
Pineapple Chunks
Incorporate 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks or canned pineapple if preferred. Pineapple contributes natural sweetness while balancing the savory flavors of the pork.
Soy Sauce
You will need ¼ cup of soy sauce. This ingredient provides a salty depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the sweet and sour sauce.
Rice Vinegar
Add 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar for acidity. This provides that characteristic tanginess that defines sweet and sour dishes while helping to tenderize the meat.
Ketchup
Use ½ cup of ketchup in the sauce to create a rich base with a hint of sweetness. This ingredient is essential for achieving that classic red color associated with sweet and sour dishes.
Sugar
Include 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar for extra sweetness. Adjust according to your preference; this helps balance out the vinegar’s acidity.
Cornstarch
You will need 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with water to create a slurry. This thickens the sauce, giving it a glossy finish that clings beautifully to the meat.