Print

Crispy Authentic Sweet and Sour Pork Recipe Easy Homemade 30-Minute Dinner

crispy authentic sweet and sour pork recipe - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy sweet and sour pork with a light, airy batter and a tangy, sweet sauce featuring fresh pineapple juice and colorful vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) pork tenderloin or loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (peanut oil recommended)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar
  • 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained if canned)
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, chopped

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork cubes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season with salt and pepper. In a medium bowl, beat the egg gently.
  2. In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add the beaten egg and stir until it creates a thick batter that coats the pork well. Adjust consistency with water or cornstarch if needed.
  3. Toss the pork cubes into the batter, making sure each piece is fully coated.
  4. Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a wok or heavy-bottomed skillet. Heat to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the pork cubes in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels. Keep warm if needed.
  6. In a saucepan, whisk together pineapple juice, rice vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil.
  7. Stir in pineapple chunks, diced bell peppers, and onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until veggies are slightly tender but still crisp.
  8. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring constantly until it thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
  9. Toss the crispy pork into the sauce, coating each piece evenly. Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice or noodles.

Notes

Pat pork dry to ensure crispiness. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350°F. Double frying can increase crunch. Toss pork in sauce just before serving to keep it crispy. Sauce can be made ahead and reheated. Baking option: bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet and sour pork, crispy pork, homemade Chinese recipe, quick dinner, easy pork recipe, family dinner, potluck recipe