Air Fryer Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork

Name: Air Fryer Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 500 g pork tenderloin (cut into 2.5 cm cubes); 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium); 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water); 1 medium red bell pepper (chopped)

35 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Enjoy a healthier take on a classic dish with our Air Fryer Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork. Crispy and tangy, it's perfect for any meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Sweet and sour pork is a staple in Chinese cuisine, loved for its crispy texture and tangy sauce. Traditionally, this dish is deep-fried, which can make it quite heavy. However, our air fryer version offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing the taste and crunch. Using an air fryer not only reduces the oil needed but also ensures the pork remains juicy on the inside while achieving that desirable crispiness on the outside. This recipe is perfect for those who love Chinese flavours but are looking for a healthier twist. Whether you're a busy professional or an adventurous home cook, this air fryer Chinese sweet and sour pork is an easy-to-follow recipe that will surely impress your family and friends.

Instructions

Prepare the Pork

Cut the pork tenderloin into 2.5 cm cubes. Coat them evenly with cornstarch.

Pro tip: Ensure each piece is well coated for maximum crispiness.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Preheating ensures even cooking.

Cook the Pork

Place the coated pork pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the basket for even cooking.

Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to dissolve the sugar.

Thicken the Sauce

Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce and stir until thickened. Add the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.

Pro tip: Adjust the consistency by adding a bit more water if needed.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pork in the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately.

Pro tip: Garnish with chopped green onions for extra flavour.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Cut pork into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking.
Use cornstarch for extra crispy pork.
Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in air fryer Chinese sweet and sour pork?

Each serving of this air fryer Chinese sweet and sour pork contains approximately 350 calories.

Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pork loin or even boneless pork chops, but the cooking time may vary slightly.

How long does it take to cook pork in an air fryer?

It takes about 10-12 minutes to cook pork cubes in an air fryer at 200°C (400°F).

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. The pork is best cooked fresh.

What can I serve with sweet and sour pork?

Serve it with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious air fryer sweet and sour pork over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. For a refreshing pairing, consider a light, crisp white wine or a chilled sparkling water with a splash of lime. Make-ahead by preparing the sauce in advance and storing it in the fridge for up to three days. The cooked pork can also be stored in an airtight container for up to two days and reheated in the air fryer for best results.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

28g

Protein

Fat

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