Lighter Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe
Introduction
Welcome to our delightful Lighter Sweet and Sour Pork recipe, a culinary treasure that combines the vibrant flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine with a healthier twist. Unlike typical recipes that often involve deep-frying the meat, this version utilizes a flavorful marinade to enhance the pork without the extra oil, ensuring a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe can be made in just under an hour, making it an ideal choice for those who desire delicious home-cooked meals without the fuss. So, let’s dive into the delightful world of sweet and sour flavors!
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 45 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Pork |
| Cuisine | Chinese / Asian |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Calories | 345.9 per serving |
| Rating | 5 stars (1 review) |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Egg |
| 1 | Sugar |
| 1 | Salt |
| 1 | Soy sauce |
| 1 | Vinegar |
| 3 | Soy sauce |
| 2 | Brown sugar |
| 3 | Cornstarch |
| 3/4 | Canola oil |
| 1 | Garlic (minced) |
| 1 | Ginger (grated) |
| 1 | Onion (sliced) |
| 4 | Pineapple chunks |
| 1 | Pineapple juice |
| 3/4 | Water |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 345.9 |
| Total Fat | 11.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 119.8 mg |
| Sodium | 1418.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 32.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 26 g |
| Protein | 28 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Pork: Begin by cubing your pork into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the egg, sugar, salt, and the first portion of soy sauce. Add the cubed pork to this marinade and let it soak for at least 20 to 30 minutes. If you have the time, allowing it to marinate longer will deepen the flavors even further.
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Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, the second portion of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice. This combination will create a sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the savory pork. Set this mixture aside for later.
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Dredge the Pork: After the pork has marinated, remove it from the marinade and dredge it in cornstarch. This step will create a lovely crust on the pork when cooked, enhancing the texture of the dish.
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Heat the Wok: In a wok or a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s ready for the pork.
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Cook the Pork: Add the dredged pork to the hot wok in a single layer. Cook the pork for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the meat is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the pork from the wok and set it aside on a plate.
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Stir-Fry Aromatics: In the same wok, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced onion. Stir-fry these ingredients for about 2 minutes or until fragrant and the onions start to become translucent.
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Add Pineapple: Toss in the pineapple chunks, allowing them to warm through. The sweetness of the pineapple will add a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
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Combine with Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the stir-fried vegetables and pineapple in the wok. Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Allow it to thicken and become clear, which should take around 2-3 minutes.
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Reintroduce the Pork: Return the cooked pork to the wok and stir to coat it evenly with the sauce. Continue to cook for an additional minute or until everything is heated through and coated in the luscious sauce.
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Serve: This delightful Lighter Sweet and Sour Pork can be served over steamed rice for a complete meal. The fluffy rice absorbs the flavors of the sauce, making each bite a wonderful experience.
Conclusion
This Lighter Sweet and Sour Pork is not just a feast for the eyes but also a healthy alternative to traditional recipes, making it a perfect option for family dinners or gatherings. With its balance of sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So grab your ingredients and treat your family to a delightful dinner that brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine right into your home!
Enjoy Your Cooking!
Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables or adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your liking. Cooking is all about creativity, so make this dish your own!
