Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Pork

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Pork is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings a tropical twist to your dinner table. This dish combines tender pork with vibrant bell peppers and fresh pineapple chunks, all coated in a luscious sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for those nights when you crave something different yet comforting.

Ingredients for Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Pork

The star of this dish is the pork shoulder, which becomes incredibly tender as it cooks and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Pineapple juice brings sweetness and a touch of acidity that perfectly complements the pork. Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy kick, while honey balances it with natural sweetness. Soy sauce contributes a savory depth, infusing the dish with umami. The red and green bell peppers not only add color but also a crisp texture that contrasts well with the tender pork. Finally, pineapple chunks provide bursts of sweetness, making each bite exciting.

Tips & Tricks

  • Cut the pork into uniform cubes for even cooking.
  • Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor, but canned works in a pinch.
  • Adjust the honey or soy sauce to suit your taste if you prefer it sweeter or saltier.
  • To save time, prep the ingredients the day before.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa, which soak up the sweet and tangy sauce. For a fresh side, consider a simple cucumber salad or stir-fried greens to complement the rich flavors of the pork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, pork loin or tenderloin can be used, though they may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is it okay to use canned pineapple?
Canned pineapple can be used if fresh isn't available, but be sure to use pineapple in juice, not syrup, to avoid overly sweetening the dish.

Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Pork Recipe Walkthrough

Start by mixing the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mixture will coat the pork cubes and help create a delicious crust. Toss the pork cubes in this mixture until they're evenly coated, ensuring each piece is covered.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the pork cubes. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step locks in the juices and adds a great texture. Once browned, remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, pour in the pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, and soy sauce. Stir these together and bring the mixture to a simmer. The sauce should start to thicken slightly and the flavors will meld beautifully.

Add the red and green bell peppers and pineapple chunks to the skillet. Let them simmer for about 5 minutes until the peppers are just tender-crisp. This ensures they retain a bit of their crunch.

Return the pork to the skillet, tossing it to coat with the sauce and vegetables. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the pork is cooked through, and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bold and balanced flavors that excite your taste buds.
  • A perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.
  • Quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Uses common ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
  • Great for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Mix the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Toss the pork cubes in the cornstarch mixture until evenly coated.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the pork to the skillet and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, and soy sauce.
7. Stir the sauce and bring it to a simmer.
8. Add the red and green bell peppers, and pineapple chunks to the skillet.
9. Simmer for 5 minutes until the peppers are tender-crisp.
10. Return the pork to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce and vegetables.
11. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the pork is cooked through and the sauce thickens.

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