Sweet and sour pork chops are a tasty twist on a classic dish! They feature juicy pork chops cooked in a tangy sauce made from pineapple, vinegar, and a hint of sweetness.
Who can resist that perfect balance of flavors? I love serving them with rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s a fun meal that even the pickiest eaters can enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor, but you can use boneless if that’s what you have. Just adjust cooking time as boneless cooks faster.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple perks up the dish, but canned works just fine and is super convenient. Opt for juice-packed to keep sweetness!
Bell Pepper: Red adds sweetness, but feel free to swap in green or yellow peppers. If you’re looking for a kick, use a jalapeño or any hot pepper.
Rice Vinegar: If you don’t have rice vinegar, white vinegar can be used. Alternatively, apple cider vinegar provides a nice flavor twist.
How Do You Ensure the Pork Chops Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky! To keep them juicy, watch the time carefully and use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Brown them well in oil – this adds flavor and keeps moisture in.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for a more tender bite.
This step is crucial for enjoying perfectly cooked, juicy pork chops! Happy cooking!
Sweet and Sour Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the pork chops and 20 minutes cooking everything. A quick and delicious meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops on both sides with salt and black pepper. This simple step will enhance the flavor of the meat. Next, dredge each chop lightly in flour, making sure to shake off any extra flour. This will help create a lovely crust when we cook them!
2. Cook the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and fragrant. Then, mix in the pineapple chunks to add even more flavor!
4. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce until well combined. Pour this sauce mix into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and bring it to a simmer.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Once the mixture starts to bubble, add the cornstarch slurry (mixture of cornstarch and water) while stirring. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens up nicely.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the sweet and sour sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and ensure the chops are well coated. Finally, garnish with sliced green onions for that extra burst of flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Serve the sweet and sour pork chops hot, ideally with a bed of steamed rice or your favorite side. Dive in and enjoy the delightful explosion of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used; just be cautious as they cook faster—typically around 3-4 minutes per side. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! To add some heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the sauce or sautéing some spicy chili peppers alongside the onion and bell pepper. Adjust to your spice preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.
Can I Substitute Pineapple Juice?
Yes, if you don’t have pineapple juice on hand, you can use orange juice for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind it will slightly change the taste of the dish but still be delicious!
