Sweet and sour pork chops are a fun dish that combines juicy pork with a tasty sauce. The sweet and tangy flavors make every bite enjoyable and exciting!
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Just grill or pan-fry the chops, then add the sauce. I love serving it with rice to soak up all that yummy sauce. So good! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in pork chops for added flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork chops work too. They’re just as tasty!
Bell Peppers: Use fresh red and green bell peppers to add color and crunch. If you’re out, you can substitute with any other sweet pepper or even frozen mixed bell peppers if fresh ones aren’t available.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is delightful, but canned pineapple works perfectly in this recipe! If you’re avoiding sugar, opt for canned pineapple in its own juice or water.
Sauce Ingredients: Apple cider vinegar gives a nice flavor, but white vinegar or rice vinegar will also work. For a lower-sugar option, adjust the brown sugar to taste or use a sugar substitute.
How Do You Get Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Achieving that golden-brown crust on the pork chops is key to great flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with pork chops at room temperature for even cooking. Season them well with salt and pepper.
- Heat the skillet on medium-high before adding oil. Wait until the oil shimmers for best results.
- Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until browned. Avoid moving them around to allow a nice crust to form.
Remember, patience is essential! Once you master this, your pork chops will be deliciously juicy and packed with flavor every time!
Sweet and Sour Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple or fresh)
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 35 minutes to have this sweet and sour delight ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pork Chops:
First, season the pork chops generously on both sides with salt and black pepper. This basic seasoning adds a great flavor base for our dish!
2. Searing the Pork Chops:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them until they’re golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once nicely browned, take the chops out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cooking the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften, making the kitchen smell wonderful!
4. Adding Pineapple:
Now, add the pineapple chunks to the skillet. Stir them together with the veggies for a couple more minutes. This will meld the flavors beautifully.
5. Making the Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the veggies and pineapple. It’s time to bring all those flavors together!
6. Thickening the Sauce:
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Then, stir in the cornstarch slurry that you made earlier. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens and turns glossy—so appetizing!
7. Finishing the Dish:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, spooning the sweet and sour sauce over them. Lower the heat, cover, and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This step ensures the pork chops cook through while absorbing all that delicious flavor.
8. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, remove the lid and garnish your dish with sliced green onions for a pop of color. Serve the pork chops hot, spooning extra sauce and veggies on top. Yum!
Enjoy your sweet and sour pork chops with some steamed rice or your preferred side. It’s a delightful meal that can brighten up your day!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as they typically cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for about 3 minutes per side when searing.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat with a little sauce to keep them juicy!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or chop up a fresh chili pepper and sauté it with the onions and peppers. Adjust the spice level to your taste preference!
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple?
If you’re not a fan of pineapple, you can substitute it with diced mango or peach for a similar sweet and tangy effect. If you’re looking for something less sweet, consider using diced tomatoes with a splash of vinegar instead.
