Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and Sour Pork (糖醋里脊), a popular Chinese dish that is loved for its crispy texture and sweet-sour flavor. This dish typically features tender pork slices coated in a crispy batter and served with a tangy, sweet sauce.

Ingredients:

• 300g pork loin or pork tenderloin, sliced into strips
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for coating)
• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

For the marinade:

• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 teaspoon light soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the sweet and sour sauce:

• 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons cold water (slurry)
• 1 small piece of ginger, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for stir-frying the sauce ingredients)

Optional garnish:

• Small pieces of pineapple, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and/or carrot for color and freshness

Step 1: Marinating the Pork

Place the pork strips in a bowl. Add the Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, salt, white pepper, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat all the pork pieces evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the Batter

In another bowl, mix the beaten egg and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Dip each marinated pork strip into this mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 3: Frying the Pork

Heat enough vegetable oil in a wok or deep pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 170°C or 340°F), carefully add the pork strips one by one, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Making the Sauce

In a separate pan, heat 1/2 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced ginger and garlic, stir-fry until fragrant. Then add the tomato ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce is heated through.

Step 5: Thickening the Sauce

Pour the cornstarch slurry into the sauce while stirring constantly. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 6: Combining the Pork and Sauce

Add the fried pork strips back into the pan with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pork thoroughly with the sauce. If using optional garnishes, add them now and toss everything together briefly.

Step 7: Serving

Serve your Sweet and Sour Pork immediately, garnished with any additional fresh vegetables if desired.

Tips:

• Ensure that the oil is at the right temperature when frying the pork; too low will make the pork greasy, and too high can burn the outside before the inside is cooked.
• The pork should be cut into uniform strips so that they cook evenly.
• You can prepare the sweet and sour sauce ahead of time and keep it aside until you’re ready to use it.
• Adding colorful vegetables not only enhances the appearance of the dish but also adds a refreshing crunch to the meal.

Enjoy this delightful dish that combines crispy, savory pork with a sweet and tangy sauce, bringing a burst of flavors to your dining table.

If you want to learn more, please watch this video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Le-JuqHXQKQ