Sweet and Sour Pork

This Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Pork is a delicious balance of savory and sweet flavors. The tender pork shoulder, cooked low and slow in a rich sauce, becomes infused with the vibrant tastes of pineapple, bell peppers, and a tangy sweet-sour sauce.

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Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy. The pork remains juicy and flavorful, while the sauce perfectly complements the tropical sweetness of the pineapple. Serve it over a bed of rice for a complete meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. This dish is ideal for anyone who loves a hearty yet easy-to-make dinner, and the slow-cooked magic makes it an unforgettable option!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into cubes

• 1 large onion, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)

Directions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine pork, onion, bell peppers, pineapple, and reserved juice.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the pork and vegetables in the slow cooker.

3. Stir everything to combine, ensuring the pork is coated with the sauce.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender.

5. If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water and stir into the sauce. Cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes to thicken.

6. Serve the sweet and sour pork over rice, garnished with additional pineapple if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (on low) | Total Time: 6-8 hours | Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker

One of the most appealing aspects of Sweet and Sour Pork is how easy it is to prepare. The beauty of slow-cooking lies in its ability to transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal without the need for constant attention. The slow cooker does the hard work for you, simmering the pork in a rich sauce for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. By the time it’s done, you’ll have tender, succulent pork that practically falls apart in your mouth, combined with sweet and tangy pineapple that perfectly complements the dish.

The slow-cooking method also ensures that you preserve the natural flavors of the ingredients. The pork remains juicy and tender, and the vegetables retain their freshness and vibrant colors. Unlike other cooking methods that might cause the ingredients to dry out or lose their individual flavors, slow cooking allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that enhances the entire dish.

Versatility and Customization

Sweet and Sour Pork is a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. One of the great things about this recipe is that it’s easy to swap out certain ingredients or adjust the level of sweetness and tanginess to your liking. You can use different types of pork, such as pork tenderloin or pork belly, depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference.

For those who prefer a spicier twist, you can add chili flakes or fresh jalapeños to the slow cooker. The sweetness of the pineapple will contrast beautifully with the heat of the peppers, giving the dish an exciting balance of flavors. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a milder option, you can reduce the amount of sugar or skip the pineapple altogether, replacing it with a more savory ingredient like mushrooms or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

In addition to the basic ingredients, Sweet and Sour Pork can be served in a variety of ways. It pairs wonderfully with a bed of steamed jasmine rice, white rice, or even quinoa for a healthier twist. You could also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad to add extra crunch and flavor to your meal.

Health Considerations

While Sweet and Sour Pork is undeniably delicious, it’s also a relatively balanced meal when prepared with thoughtful ingredient choices. Pork is a good source of protein, and when paired with fresh vegetables like bell peppers and pineapple, the dish offers a good mix of vitamins and minerals. Pineapple, in particular, is rich in vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the slow-cooker method helps retain more nutrients from the ingredients compared to high-heat cooking methods.

However, it’s important to be mindful of the sauce, as it can be a bit sugary due to the pineapple and brown sugar. If you’re looking to make a healthier version, you can reduce the sugar content or use a sugar substitute. You could also experiment with adding more vinegar to increase the tanginess and reduce the need for sugar. By making small adjustments, you can keep the flavor profile intact while making the dish a little lighter.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the reasons Sweet and Sour Pork has become a go-to meal for many is its versatility when it comes to serving it for different occasions. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family after a long day at work or making a big batch for a special event or holiday gathering, this dish works for every situation. The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it frees up your time to focus on other aspects of the meal or enjoy your time with friends and family while the meal is cooking.

For holidays or gatherings, Sweet and Sour Pork is an excellent dish to serve as part of a buffet spread or alongside other dishes. Its vibrant colors and the appealing combination of sweet and savory flavors make it a standout on any table. It also holds up well when kept warm in a slow cooker, allowing guests to serve themselves at their leisure.

If you’re looking to bring something unique to a potluck or dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and its bold flavors will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

How to Serve Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and Sour Pork is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing it with side dishes. While it’s traditionally served over white rice, you can also try it with other grains such as brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. The tangy sauce and tender pork create a perfect contrast to the neutral flavors of the rice.

For a more substantial meal, you can pair it with roasted vegetables or stir-fried greens like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas. The combination of flavors and textures adds extra depth to the dish and helps balance out the richness of the pork. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also add a refreshing touch, especially during the warmer months.

Tips for Perfect Sweet and Sour Pork Every Time

To ensure your Sweet and Sour Pork turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:

1. Use the Right Cut of Pork: While pork shoulder is commonly used in Sweet and Sour Pork, you can also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that pork tenderloin may not be as tender as pork shoulder when slow-cooked.

2. Don’t Skip the Pineapple: The pineapple not only adds sweetness but also helps tenderize the pork during the slow cooking process. It’s an essential ingredient that gives this dish its signature flavor.

3. Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce to your liking. If you prefer a tangier dish, add more vinegar. For extra sweetness, increase the amount of brown sugar or pineapple juice. Adjusting the sauce is an easy way to make this dish fit your preferences.

4. Serve with Rice or Veggies: Sweet and Sour Pork pairs beautifully with rice, but you can also serve it with roasted vegetables, stir-fried greens, or even noodles for variety.

5. Make It Ahead: Sweet and Sour Pork can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, making it a great dish to prepare in advance for busy nights.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and Sour Pork is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its easy-to-make nature, combined with the tender pork and zesty sauce, makes it a dish that will delight anyone who tastes it. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious dinner with your family, this recipe is a great choice. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and satisfying flavors make it a go-to meal for anyone who loves simple yet delicious food.

This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a great way to showcase the power of slow cooking. It allows you to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Try it today, and you’ll see why Sweet and Sour Pork has been a favorite for so long!