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Classic Sweet and Sour Pork – A Perfect Balance of Flavor

Shruthi
Sweet and Sour Pork features crispy fried pork tossed in a tangy, glossy sauce.The dish combines sweet, sour, and savory flavors in perfect balance.Colorful vegetables and pineapple add freshness and texture.It is a classic takeaway-style dish that’s easy to recreate at home.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese, Chinese-American
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Pork

  • 500 g pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for deep frying

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce

  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar or white vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For the Vegetables

  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, cut into chunks
  • ½ cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

Instructions
 

  • Season the pork pieces with salt and pepper.
  • Add the egg and cornstarch, mixing well to coat the pork evenly.
  • Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the pork until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • In a bowl, mix ketchup, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and cornstarch slurry.
  • Heat a pan with a little oil, add bell peppers and onion, and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.
  • Pour in the sweet and sour sauce and cook until thick and glossy.
  • Add pineapple chunks and fried pork. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  • Serve hot with steamed rice.

Notes

  • Pork shoulder gives juicier results than lean cuts.
  • Cornstarch helps create a light, crispy coating.
  • Sauce thickness can be adjusted with water.
  • Pineapple adds natural sweetness and acidity.
  • Best served immediately for maximum crispiness.

 

Keyword Asian comfort food, Chinese pork recipe, classic Chinese takeaway, crispy pork dish, Sweet and sour pork