Sweet & Sour Sauce for Meat
Overview:
This Sweet & Sour Sauce recipe holds a special place in the heart, originating from cherished potluck gatherings. It’s a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for enhancing pork dishes but versatile enough for other meats too. The preparation time is quick, clocking in around 15 minutes, ensuring you can whip it up effortlessly whenever a craving strikes.
Ingredients:
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 – 1 cup (adjust to taste)
- White Vinegar: 1/4 cup
- Water: 1/2 cup
- Ketchup: 1/4 cup
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons (for thickening)
- Pineapple Chunks: 1/2 cup (optional, for added sweetness and texture)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 139.3
- Fat: 0.1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 430.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 34.6g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 0.7g
Directions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. | Mix all ingredients: In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, white vinegar, water, ketchup, soy sauce, and optional pineapple chunks. Stir well to blend. |
| 2. | Cook until thickened: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, usually about 5-7 minutes. |
| 3. | Prepare the meat: Cut up a pork roast into 1-inch chunks. |
| 4. | Brown the meat: In a frying pan, brown the pork chunks to enhance their flavor and texture. |
| 5. | Assemble the casserole: Place the browned pork chunks in a casserole dish. Add green pepper, onions (cut into 1-inch chunks), and any additional vegetables like carrots if desired. |
| 6. | Pour over the sauce: Pour the thickened sweet and sour sauce evenly over the meat and vegetables in the casserole dish. |
| 7. | Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked to your liking. |
| 8. | Serve: Serve the Sweet & Sour Meat over rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Adjust the amounts of meat and vegetables according to your preference. |
Tips:
- Customize to Taste: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by varying the amount of brown sugar or vinegar.
- Variations: Experiment with different meats such as chicken or beef, or try adding more vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it perfect for meal prep.
This recipe not only brings back fond memories but also offers a delicious way to enjoy a classic sweet and sour flavor profile at home. Whether for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and comforting appeal.
