Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering Chinese-inspired dish that will make your taste buds dance with joy! These sesame pork tidbits are not just another recipe – they're a culinary adventure that combines crispy, golden-brown pork with a tantalizing sweet and sour sauce that'll have everyone begging for seconds. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or a food lover craving something extraordinary, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and bring restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork loin, cubed
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Instructions
- Pat the pork loin cubes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring better browning and crispiness.
- Place the pork cubes in a large mixing bowl and coat evenly with cornstarch, shaking off any excess to create a light, crispy exterior.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers and becomes fragrant.
- Carefully add the cornstarch-coated pork cubes to the hot oil, arranging them in a single layer to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Cook the pork for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped bell pepper and onion for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly softened and develop light caramelization.
- Return the cooked pork to the skillet and pour the sweet and sour sauce over the meat and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the pork and gently toss to ensure even distribution.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the sauce and allow the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the sesame pork tidbits to a serving platter and garnish with additional sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or your preferred side dish.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always pat your pork cubes completely dry before coating with cornstarch. This crucial step ensures a crispy, golden exterior that's Instagram-worthy.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the pork in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will steam the meat instead of creating that perfect crispy texture.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
- Sesame Seed Pro Tip: Toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the dish to enhance their nutty flavor and aroma.
- Sauce Coating Technique: Add the sweet and sour sauce at the end of cooking to prevent burning and maintain its vibrant flavor and glossy appearance.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients in advance and quickly cook this dish when you're ready to eat, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customize Your Sides: While steamed rice is classic, try serving with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or noodles for a different twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 343kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 60mg
