This Easy Super Tender Pineapple Pork is a sweet and savory delight! The juicy pork pairs perfectly with the tangy pineapple for a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Honestly, who can resist the combo of pork and pineapple? I like to serve it with rice for a filling meal. Just remember to save some for leftovers — if you can!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: Pork shoulder gives a deliciously tender result due to its fat content, but pork tenderloin is a leaner option. If you’re looking for a lighter choice, chicken breast or thighs could also work well.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is great if you have it, but canned pineapple is super convenient. Just make sure to drain it well! You could also use mango for a different fruity twist.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh garlic and ginger add fantastic flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder and ground ginger. However, fresh is always better for that fragrant taste!
Sauces: For a gluten-free version, swap the soy sauce for tamari. You can also replace brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a healthier option.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork to Make it Tender?
Searing the pork correctly is key to getting that delicious flavor locked in! Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the pork; this helps achieve that nice brown crust.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet – sear in batches if needed, as this allows the heat to distribute evenly.
- Pork should cook until it’s a nice golden brown on all sides, taking about 5-7 minutes. This gives it a rich flavor!
Don’t rush this step, as it’s crucial for taste and texture. Letting the meat rest after cooking will help keep it juicy too!
Easy Super Tender Pineapple Pork
Ingredients:
- Meat: 1.5 pounds pork shoulder or pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Pineapple: 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- Cooking Oil: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Aromatics: 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Aromatics: 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- Sauce: 1/4 cup soy sauce
- Sauce: 3 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Spice: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Pineapple Juice: 1/4 cup (from canned pineapple or fresh)
- Thickener: 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Garnish: Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Seasoning: Salt and black pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and 20 minutes of cooking time, giving you a total of about 35 minutes to whip up this tasty dish! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
First, pat the pork pieces dry using a paper towel. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Then, sprinkle them lightly with salt and black pepper for extra flavor.
2. Sear the Pork:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned pork pieces in a single layer and sear them until they are golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside. This step locks in the juices and flavor!
3. Cook Aromatics:
In the same skillet with the leftover oil, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
4. Add Sauce Ingredients:
Now, stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), rice vinegar, pineapple juice, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and bring it to a gentle simmer, letting all the flavors meld together.
5. Return Pork and Pineapple:
Next, add the seared pork back into the skillet along with the pineapple chunks. Stir everything together so that the pork is nicely coated with the sauce.
6. Simmer:
Let the pork and pineapple simmer in the sauce over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes. This will make the pork super tender and flavorful as it absorbs all the delicious sauce.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
To thicken your sauce, slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. If you enjoy a little more heat, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes. Serve your super tender pineapple pork hot with steamed rice or tasty noodles.
Enjoy this delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with a hint of spice! It’s perfect for impressing family or friends!
FAQ for Easy Super Tender Pineapple Pork
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder and tenderloin are great options, you can also use pork loin or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for chicken, as it cooks faster than pork.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet dish, simply reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey in the recipe. Alternatively, use a sugar substitute if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option. Remember to taste as you go to get your desired sweetness!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store leftover pineapple pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. It’s delicious the next day!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots to the dish for extra nutrition and color. Just sauté them along with the garlic and ginger for a few minutes before adding the sauce ingredients.
