Sweet and sour pork is a classic Chinese dish known for its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation. This dish combines crispy fried pork with a tangy and sweet sauce, often accompanied by colorful vegetables and pineapple. It’s a favorite in Chinese cuisine and has gained popularity worldwide. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make authentic Chinese sweet and sour pork at home.
Ingredients
To prepare sweet and sour pork, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Pork: 500g pork shoulder or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
Marinade: 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon rice wine, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
Batter: 1 egg, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Vegetables: 1 green bell pepper, 1 red bell pepper, 1 onion, all cut into chunks
Pineapple: 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
Sweet and Sour Sauce: 3 tablespoons ketchup, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1/2 cup water, 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water
Oil: For deep frying
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork
Step 1: Marinate the Pork
In a bowl, combine the pork pieces with soy sauce, rice wine, salt, and white pepper. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Add cornstarch and all-purpose flour to the beaten egg, mixing until a smooth batter forms. The batter should be thick enough to coat the pork pieces.
Step 3: Coat the Pork
Dip each marinated pork piece into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. This batter will create a crispy layer when fried.
Step 4: Deep Fry the Pork
Heat oil in a deep pan or wok to 180°C (350°F). Carefully add the battered pork pieces into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Prepare the Vegetables
In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bell peppers and onion, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
In a saucepan, combine ketchup, white vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Once boiling, add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce. Continue to cook for another minute until the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened.
Step 7: Combine Everything
In the pan with the sautéed vegetables and pineapple, add the fried pork pieces. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the mixture, tossing everything together to ensure even coating. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour pork hot, accompanied by steamed white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
Tips for Success
Double Frying: For extra crispiness, consider frying the pork pieces twice. After the initial fry, let them rest for a few minutes, then fry again for a shorter time.
Consistent Sizes: Cut the pork and vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh pineapple for a more natural sweetness, though canned pineapple works as well.
Adjusting Sweetness: Taste the sauce before combining. If it’s too tangy, add a bit more sugar; if too sweet, add a splash more vinegar.
Conclusion
Making Chinese sweet and sour pork at home is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of a classic dish to your kitchen. With crispy pork, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy-sweet sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress. Follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s both authentic and satisfying.
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