Sweet and sour pork is a beloved Chinese-American dish known for its vibrant, glossy sauce and tender, flavorful pork. The perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, and its satisfying combination of textures – crispy pork and a tangy sauce – is irresistible. This classic recipe is surprisingly easy to master at home, requiring readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you'll find this recipe approachable and rewarding.
This dish is far from complicated, promising delicious results without excessive effort. Forget takeout; prepare to tantalize your taste buds with homemade sweet and sour pork that surpasses restaurant quality. Ready to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions to create your own unforgettable sweet and sour pork masterpiece.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Meat tenderizer
- Bowls
- Frying pan
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Pork loin
- Salt: a pinch
- White pepper powder: a little bit
- Egg: 1
- Water
- Sweet potato starch
- Ketchup: 1/8 cup
- Soy sauce: 2 parts
- White sugar: 3 parts
- White vinegar: 4 parts
- Oil
- Chinese lettuce
- Roasted sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork
- Choose a pork loin with plenty of lean meat. Remove the skin and fat, then slice it into 1cm thick pieces.
- Tenderize the pork using a meat tenderizer's rough side. This makes the meat tender, improves flavor absorption, and helps the starch coating adhere during frying.
- Season the pork with salt, white pepper, and egg. The egg helps the starch coat better.
- Gradually add sweet potato starch to the pork, mixing well. Add a little water at a time to achieve a thin, even coating.
- Add a little oil to the pork mixture. This helps create a loose and crispy crust.
Step 2. Fry the Pork
- Heat oil in a frying pan until it bubbles rapidly when a chopstick is inserted. Fry the pork pieces in batches, ensuring they are golden brown and crispy.
- Increase the oil temperature and fry the pork again for a crispier exterior.
Step 3. Make and Combine the Sauce
- Mix ketchup, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and water according to the given ratios.
- Add the sauce to the pan. Simmer until it thickens.
- Add the fried pork to the sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
Step 4. Serve
- Wash and tear Chinese lettuce in half.
- Garnish with roasted sesame seeds. Serve with Chinese lettuce and rice.
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Adjust the sauce ingredients according to the amount of meat you're using, maintaining the same ratios.
- Don't worry about using a lot of sugar; the dish is meant to be sweet.
- If the starch mixture is too dry, add water; if it's too wet, add more starch.
- Fry the pork in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust the heat according to your frying speed. Maintain medium-high heat if you're quick, and lower it if you're slower.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Chicken, beef, or even tofu can be substituted for the pork. Adjust cooking time accordingly; chicken and tofu will cook faster.
2. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to thicken it.
With its perfect blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, this homemade sweet and sour pork is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. From the crispy pork to the tangy sauce, every bite offers a delightful experience. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating this classic dish in your own kitchen!