This Super Tender Pineapple Pork is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for an easy dinner. With juicy pork and tangy pineapple, it’s a tasty combination that everyone will love!
I love how simple this recipe is to whip up. Just throw the ingredients in a pan, and let them work their magic. It’s like a mini vacation on your plate! 🏝️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for tenderness during cooking. If you can’t find pork shoulder, pork loin can be a good substitute but may be less juicy. For a leaner option, try chicken thighs instead!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor, but canned pineapple is a great alternative. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture. For a twist, you can use mango instead of pineapple!
Soy Sauce: This adds a rich umami flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, choose reduced-sodium soy sauce. For gluten-free diets, tamari works well as a substitute.
Brown Sugar: It caramelizes nicely, adding depth to the dish. You can swap it out for honey or maple syrup, which will also give that lovely sweetness.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil can work. If you’re aiming for more flavor, sesame oil is a nice touch, but use it sparingly since it’s stronger.
How Do I Make the Pork Extra Tender?
Getting the pork tender is key to this dish. Marinating the pork not only flavors it but also helps break down proteins, making the meat tender. Here’s how to ensure you get that perfect tenderness:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, try 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Cook the pork on medium-high heat initially to get a nice sear, but be careful not to overcook.
- Let it simmer with the sauce! The longer it simmers, the more tender it becomes as it absorbs the flavors.
- Add the cornstarch slurry towards the end to thicken the sauce without overcooking the meat.
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously tender Pineapple Pork your family will enjoy! 🍍🍖
Super Tender Pineapple Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pineapple:
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from canned or fresh juice)
For Thickening:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped green onions or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for cooking. Plus, you’ll want to marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to really get that tender, flavorful goodness. So all in all, make it a quick 40 minutes to a yummy hour, depending on your marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Pork:
In a large bowl, combine pork cubes with soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and pineapple juice. Make sure everything is well mixed so the flavors can soak into the meat. Cover and set it aside to marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or in the fridge for up to 2 hours.
2. Heat Things Up!
In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot enough to sear the meat nicely!
3. Sauté the Onions:
Add the sliced onions to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, just until they start to get a bit translucent and fragrant.
4. Brown the Pork:
Now, add the marinated pork to the pan (make sure to reserve the marinade). Cook until the pork is browned on all sides, which will take about 6-8 minutes. Don’t rush this step; a good sear is key for flavor!
5. Add Pineapple and Marinade:
Stir in the pineapple chunks and pour the reserved marinade over the top. Stir it all together and let it come to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens!
6. Thicken the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour this slowly into the skillet, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. This will help thicken that delicious sauce!
7. Cook Until Tender:
Let everything simmer together for an additional 3-5 minutes until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking. Make sure to keep stirring occasionally!
8. Final Touches:
Take a moment to taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You’ll want it just right!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped green onions or parsley if you like. Serve your Super Tender Pineapple Pork hot with some steaming rice or your favorite side dish, and enjoy a hearty meal!
Enjoy your super tender, flavorful Pineapple Pork dinner!
FAQ for Super Tender Pineapple Pork
Can I Use Leaner Cuts of Pork?
Yes, you can use leaner cuts like pork loin, but keep in mind that they may not be as tender or juicy as pork shoulder. If you do choose a leaner cut, be careful not to overcook it to avoid dryness!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you love a kick, you can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. For a more robust flavor, feel free to toss in some sliced jalapeños or add a bit of sriracha while cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the pork a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook it on the day you’re ready to enjoy; just adjust your cooking time slightly as it may need a bit longer if it’s coming straight from the fridge!
