Best Easy Rice with Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe

Crispy sweet and sour pork is served atop steamed rice for a complete, satisfying meal. This family-friendly dish is protein-rich and offers the perfect balance of tangy and sweet in every bite.

Cook 55 min Difficulty NORMAL 595 kcal
#family meal #protein-rich #sweet and sour #crispy
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • pork loin 1 lb
  • cornstarch 0.5 cup
  • all-purpose flour 0.5 cup
  • large egg 2 pieces
  • vegetable oil 1.5 cup
  • white rice, uncooked 2 cups
  • red bell pepper 1 piece
  • pineapple chunks (canned, drained) 0.75 cup
  • yellow onion 0.5 piece
Seasonings/Sauce
  • soy sauce 2 tbsp
  • rice vinegar 3 tbsp
  • ketchup 2 tbsp
  • brown sugar 2 tbsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 74 g 49%
Protein 25 g 17%
Fat 21 g 34%
Serving size 370g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Cook rice according to package instructions, keeping it warm for serving.

  2. 2

    Slice pork loin into thin strips, then season with salt and black pepper.

  3. 3

    In two separate bowls, place cornstarch and all-purpose flour in one, and beaten eggs in another. Dip pork strips in the egg, then dredge in the starch-flour mix until coated well.

  4. 4

    Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry coated pork strips in batches, turning as needed, until golden and crisp (about 4-5 minutes per batch). Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.

  5. 5

    Discard most of the frying oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan. Add chopped onion and red bell pepper, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes on medium-high heat.

  6. 6

    Add pineapple chunks, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, and brown sugar. Stir and simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.

  7. 7

    Return the fried pork to the pan, tossing quickly to coat evenly in the sauce. Remove from heat promptly to maintain crispness.

  8. 8

    Spoon the cooked rice into bowls or plates. Top with the sweet and sour pork mixture and serve immediately.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient that gives this dish its signature flavor?
The combination of pork loin and a sweet-sour sauce featuring rice vinegar, ketchup, and brown sugar is what truly defines this dish. The pork provides hearty protein, while the sauce layers tangy and sweet notes.
Q. What is the most important step to ensure crispy pork in this recipe?
To achieve crispy pork, make sure to coat the meat thoroughly in the starch-flour mix after dipping in egg, and fry in batches over medium-high oil. Draining the pork on a wire rack (not stacked) keeps it crisp.
Q. How do I keep the pork from turning soggy after tossing in the sauce?
Add the fried pork to the sauce only at the final step, toss to coat quickly, and remove from heat promptly. This preserves the crisp texture while ensuring the pieces are well glazed but not soggy.
Q. How many calories and how much protein does each serving provide?
Each serving contains about 595 kcal and provides 25g of protein. The macronutrient ratio is approximately 49% carbs, 17% protein, and 34% fat, making it a protein-rich and satisfying meal.
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