Sweet and sour pork chops are a fun twist on a classic dish! The juicy pork gets coated in a tangy sauce made with pineapple and bell peppers that adds a burst of flavor.
These chops are like a flavor party on your plate! I love serving them with rice to soak up all that tasty sauce. You’ll be going back for seconds, trust me! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great because they stay juicy. You can also use boneless pork chops or even chicken thighs if that’s what you have on hand.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness. If out of season, canned diced tomatoes work too. Just drain them before using!
Green Beans: Fresh green beans give a nice crunch! You can swap them for snap peas or even broccoli for a different texture.
Pineapple Juice: It adds sweetness and a bit of tang. If you don’t have any, orange juice or apple juice will do just fine!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Getting the pork chops just right is key! Follow these steps for success:
- Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Use medium-high heat to sear the chops. It creates a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy and safe-to-eat pork.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy flavorful and perfectly cooked pork chops every time! Happy cooking!
Sweet and Sour Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (or orange juice)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. Altogether, expect to spend about 30 minutes from start to finish. Super quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This simple step enhances the flavor of the pork beautifully!
2. Cooking the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork chops. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the green beans and carrots. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This will create a colorful and vibrant veggie mix!
4. Making the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and soy sauce in a bowl. Once the veggies are ready, pour this sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer to combine all the wonderful flavors.
5. Thickening the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry into the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens up nicely.
6. Adding the Pork Chops Back:
Return the pork chops to the skillet during the last two minutes. Spoon the delicious sauce and veggies over the chops and heat everything together.
7. Serving:
Once everything is heated through, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve it hot over steamed white rice or any side of your choice.
Enjoy the tangy, vibrant flavors paired with tender, juicy pork chops! Happy eating! 🍽️
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work perfectly in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time to about 3-4 minutes per side, as they typically cook faster than bone-in chops.
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
No worries! If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can substitute it with orange juice or even apple juice for a similar sweetness and acidity.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the sauce’s flavor and the pork’s moisture.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Just sauté them alongside the green beans and carrots for a colorful and nutritious dish!
