Dinner

Sweet and Sour MEAT

Name: Sweet and Sour MEAT
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 500g pork, beef, or chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup cornstarch (for coating); 1 egg, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for deep frying; 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 small onion, chopped; 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh); 1 tablespoon oil (for stir-frying); 2 tablespoons ketchup; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or white vinegar; 3 tablespoons sugar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1/2 cup water; 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (slurry)

ByMariem September 27, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Sweet and Sour Pork is a beloved Chinese-style dish made with crispy fried pork pieces coated in a glossy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce, typically served with bell peppers, onions, and pineapple. This homemade version delivers the classic takeout flavor using simple ingredients and easy steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings the perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and savory flavors. The pork is fried to a golden crisp, then tossed in a sticky and vibrant sauce that clings to every bite. The inclusion of bell peppers and onions adds freshness and crunch, making it a complete and satisfying dish served over rice or noodles. It’s a flavorful crowd-pleaser and a fun way to recreate restaurant-quality food at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pork shoulder or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
Cornstarch
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Egg
Oil for frying
Red and green bell peppers, chopped
Onion, chopped
Pineapple chunks (optional but traditional)
Garlic, minced

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

Ketchup
Rice vinegar or white vinegar
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Pineapple juice or water
Cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water)

Directions

Prepare the batter: In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and egg with water to make a thick batter. Add pork pieces and coat thoroughly.
Fry the pork: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and deep-fry pork in batches until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
Make the sauce: In a saucepan, combine ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice. Simmer until it begins to bubble. Add cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens.
Stir-fry the vegetables: In a large wok or skillet, heat oil and sauté garlic, bell peppers, and onions until slightly tender but still crisp.
Combine: Add fried pork and pineapple (if using) to the pan. Pour in the sweet and sour sauce. Toss everything together until coated and heated through.
Serve: Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use chicken or tofu instead of pork for a different protein.
Add zucchini or snap peas for extra vegetables.
Skip pineapple for a more savory profile.
Make it lighter by baking the pork or using an air fryer.
Add chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the fried coating may lose its crispness.

FAQs

What cut of pork is best for sweet and sour pork?

Pork shoulder or tenderloin works well due to its tenderness and flavor.

Can I bake the pork instead of frying it?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) until crispy, flipping halfway through, though it may be less crunchy.

Is pineapple necessary?

It’s traditional but optional. It adds sweetness and balance to the acidity of the sauce.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Neutral oils such as canola, vegetable, or sunflower oil work best.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the components separately and combine before serving for best texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cooked pork?

Yes, but it won’t have the crispy texture unless it’s breaded and re-fried or baked.

Can I use store-bought sweet and sour sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce offers better flavor and control over ingredients.

How do I keep the pork crispy after saucing?

Toss just before serving and avoid excessive sauce to preserve the coating.

What sides go well with sweet and sour pork?

Steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables are excellent pairings.

Conclusion

Sweet and Sour Pork is a delicious and visually appealing dish that delivers bold flavor, crispy texture, and vibrant color. With its balanced sauce and crunchy vegetables, it’s a satisfying alternative to takeout that you can recreate in your own kitchen. Perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals, this recipe will become a repeat favorite for anyone who loves a good sweet and savory combination.

Mariem