Why You’ll Love this Sweet and Sour Pork Chops Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances flavors and satisfies your cravings, you’ll love this Sweet and Sour Pork Chops recipe. The combination of tender pork with a zesty, tangy sauce is simply irresistible.
I can’t get enough of how the sweetness from the pineapple juice complements the savory notes of soy sauce. Plus, the vibrant colors from the red bell peppers and onions make it visually appealing.
It’s quick to prepare, which is a huge bonus for busy weeknights. I find it pairs wonderfully with brown rice, soaking up all the delicious sauce.
Trust me, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen, making dinner not just a meal, but a delightful experience!
Ingredients of Sweet and Sour Pork Chops
When it comes to whipping up a delicious dinner, the right ingredients can make all the difference. For this Sweet and Sour Pork Chops recipe, you’ll want to gather some flavorful staples that come together to create a mouthwatering dish. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how easily these ingredients transform into something that’s not just tasty, but also visually stunning.
So, let’s explore what you’ll need to create this vibrant meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon dry sherry
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 lb of 1-inch thick boneless pork chop, trimmed of fat and cut into one-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 red onion, peeled, trimmed, and cut into one-inch cubes
- 2 red bell peppers, stemmed, seeded, and cut into one-inch cubes
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked brown rice
- 3 cups chicken stock
Now, before you start chopping and mixing, let’s chat about these ingredients a bit more. The pork chops are the star of the show, and if you can get your hands on some good quality, tender cuts, you’re already halfway to a delightful dish.
Don’t skimp on the pineapple juice; it’s the secret to that sweet and tangy flavor that makes your taste buds dance. And hey, feel free to experiment—add some extra veggies if you have them lying around, or even swap out the brown rice for something different if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cooking should be fun, right? So gather these ingredients, and let’s get ready to make some magic in the kitchen.
How to Make Sweet and Sour Pork Chops
Alright, let’s plunge into making those Sweet and Sour Pork Chops! First up, you’ll want to marinate the star of the dish—your 1 lb of boneless pork chops. In a medium bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of dry sherry, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, 2 tablespoons of low sodium soy sauce, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of sugar. Toss those pork cubes in the marinade until they’re well coated. Don’t be shy; give them a nice, gentle massage.
Then, let them chill in the refrigerator for a bit. This is where the magic happens—those flavors will soak right in! While you’re waiting, you can take a moment to dance around the kitchen or pretend you’re on a cooking show. Just me?
Once the pork is marinated, it’s time to get cooking. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice, 1 tablespoon of ketchup, 1/2 teaspoon of white vinegar, the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce, and the last teaspoon of sugar. This yummy concoction is your sweet and sour sauce.
Now, heat up 3 tablespoons of canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot but not smoking—like, just the right temperature for a happy sizzle—add your chopped red onion (1 onion, cut into cubes) and sauté for about 2 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect balance of brown and crisp.
Once those are done, transfer them to a large dish. Next, toss in your red bell peppers (2 peppers, all cubed and ready to shine) into the same skillet. Cook them for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re also a little browned but still have that delightful crunch.
In goes the remaining tablespoon of oil, and then it’s time for the marinated pork cubes. Arrange them in a single layer, and let them cook undisturbed until they develop a beautiful golden crust on one side, about 1 1/2 minutes. Flip them over and do the same for the other side.
When that’s done, return the onions and peppers to the pan. Pour in your sweet and sour sauce and give everything a good toss, letting the sauce coat all those colorful ingredients while it thickens a bit.
Serve this vibrant dish immediately, and don’t forget about the brown rice—cooked fluffy in chicken stock while you were busy with the pork. It’s like the perfect sidekick to your pork chop superhero. Enjoy, and try not to eat it all in one sitting, though I won’t judge if you do!
Sweet and Sour Pork Chops Substitutions & Variations
Now that you’ve got a handle on making those delicious Sweet and Sour Pork Chops, let’s explore some substitutions and variations to personalize this dish.
If you’re not a fan of pork, chicken or tofu can work beautifully as alternatives. For a vegetarian twist, try using tempeh or seitan.
You can swap the brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, like snap peas or broccoli, depending on what you have on hand.
If you want to kick up the heat, adding a splash of sriracha or some crushed red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
Cooking’s all about creativity, so have fun with it!
What to Serve with Sweet and Sour Pork Chops
What should you serve alongside those delicious Sweet and Sour Pork Chops? I love pairing them with fluffy brown rice, as it absorbs the tangy sauce perfectly.
If you’re looking for something extra, steamed broccoli or snap peas add a vibrant touch and a nice crunch. A fresh cucumber salad with a light vinegar dressing complements the dish beautifully, balancing the sweetness.
For a heartier option, you could also serve some fried rice, which adds a bit of texture and flavor.
Finally, don’t forget a side of egg rolls or spring rolls; they make for a fun appetizer and tie in nicely with the Asian-inspired flavors.
Enjoy crafting your perfect plate!
Additional Tips & Notes
When serving Sweet and Sour Pork Chops, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind to enhance your meal.
For a crispier texture, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork. I also recommend marinating the meat for at least an hour—this really boosts the flavor.
If you prefer more sweetness, adjust the sugar in the sauce or add a splash of pineapple juice. Fresh vegetables can make a difference too; try adding snap peas or carrots for extra color and crunch.
Finally, don’t forget to fluff your brown rice with a fork before serving; it makes a big difference in presentation.
Enjoy your cooking, and don’t hesitate to experiment!