Introduction:
Sweet and sour pork is a classic dish that combines tender pork with a tangy, flavorful sauce. Cooking it on the Arteflame grill adds a smoky depth, enhancing the caramelized flavors of the sauce and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for outdoor grilling and serves as a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Pork:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow onion, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and vegetable oil. Add pork cubes and toss to coat. Let marinate for 20 minutes.
- Preheat the Arteflame grill by lighting vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Allow the grill to heat for 20 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the mixture and stir until smooth.
Step 3: Grill the Pork and Vegetables
- Toss the bell peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks in 1 tbsp vegetable oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Place the pork cubes on skewers (optional) or directly on the flat cooktop. Grill on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F).
- Grill the vegetables and pineapple on the flat cooktop, turning occasionally, until they are lightly charred and tender, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Glaze
- Move the pork and vegetables to the cooler outer zone of the flat cooktop.
- Pour the sweet and sour sauce onto the flat cooktop in a medium-heat zone, stirring constantly until it thickens.
- Toss the grilled pork, vegetables, and pineapple in the sauce until evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer the sweet and sour pork to a serving dish.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve hot with steamed white rice or fried rice.
Tips for Perfect Sweet and Sour Pork on the Arteflame
- Even Cubes: Cut the pork into uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: Ensure the grill is properly preheated for a quick sear and caramelization.
- Sauce Control: Stir the sauce continuously to avoid clumping when thickening.
- High Heat: Use the center of the flat cooktop for a good char and caramelization on the pork and vegetables.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add 1 tsp chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat.
- Crispy Pork: Coat the marinated pork in cornstarch and briefly fry it on the grill for a crispy texture.
- Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas to the vegetable mix.
- Vegan Version: Replace pork with grilled tofu or mushrooms.
- Honey Sweetened: Substitute sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.
Pairings
- Sides: Serve with fried rice, steamed jasmine rice, or grilled Asian greens.
- Drinks: Pair with iced green tea, a crisp lager, or a fruity white wine.
- Sauces: Offer extra sweet and sour sauce on the side for dipping.
Conclusion
Cooking sweet and sour pork on the Arteflame grill enhances the dish with a subtle smokiness and perfectly caramelized flavors. This easy-to-follow recipe transforms a beloved classic into a flavorful outdoor meal perfect for family and friends.
