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Sweet Jalapeno Pork is a vibrant and flavorful dish where thinly sliced pork is combined with spicy jalapenos, then fried until crispy and coated in a sweet, garlicky sauce. The crispy pork and jalapenos are complemented by a savory sauce, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, and it’s loved by the whole family!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pork:

1 lb pork shoulder (or pork butt or tenderloin), sliced thinly
3-4 large jalapenos, sliced 1/4 inch thick
2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 large egg, whisked
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1/2 tsp dried red chili flakes (optional)
1/2 cup light soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1/2 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
2 tsp sesame seeds, toasted
1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced

Directions

Prepare the Coating:
In a bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and breadcrumbs. Set aside.
Coat the Pork and Jalapenos:
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with salt and pepper. Add the pork and jalapenos to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly in the egg mixture. Then, transfer the coated pork and jalapenos to the breadcrumb and cornstarch mixture, tossing to coat completely.
Fry the Pork and Jalapenos:
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the pork and jalapenos in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fried pork and jalapenos from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant. Add the red chili flakes (if using), soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and half of the sesame seeds and green onions. Stir to combine and bring to a low boil. Continue cooking for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine and Serve:
Add the fried pork and jalapenos to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Plate the dish and garnish with the remaining sesame seeds and green onions.

Nutrients (Per serving, makes 6 servings)

Calories: 534 kcal
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 62mg
Sodium: 1769mg
Potassium: 361mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 21g

A Perfect Balance of Spicy and Sweet

What makes Sweet Jalapeno Pork so special is its balance of heat and sweetness. The fresh jalapenos add just the right amount of spiciness, which is beautifully mellowed by the sweet, sticky sauce. When combined with the crispy, tender pork, the contrasting flavors create a delicious experience with every bite.

The sauce, made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and sesame oil, is a sweet and savory masterpiece that coats the crispy fried pork and jalapenos. The garlic and ginger bring aromatic depth, while the optional red chili flakes give the dish an extra layer of heat, perfect for spice lovers. The addition of sesame seeds and green onions adds a nice crunch and a burst of freshness that further enhances the overall flavor.

The Crispy Pork: The Heart of the Dish

At the heart of this dish is the pork, which takes center stage with its crispy, golden texture. Pork shoulder, pork butt, or tenderloin are the ideal cuts for this recipe, as they are tender yet hearty enough to hold up to the frying process. When sliced thinly, the pork cooks quickly, resulting in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior.

The secret to achieving that perfect crispy texture is in the coating. The pork is first dipped in a simple egg mixture, then coated in a combination of seasoned breadcrumbs and cornstarch. This mixture ensures the pork stays crispy while absorbing all the flavor from the sauce. The breadcrumbs provide the right crunch, while the cornstarch helps create an ultra-crispy exterior that gives each bite a satisfying crunch.

Fried Jalapenos: A Flavorful Kick

While the crispy pork is the star, the jalapenos also play an essential role in bringing flavor and heat to the dish. Sliced thin and fried along with the pork, the jalapenos become slightly softened but still retain their natural spiciness. As they cook in the oil, they take on a smoky, flavorful char that adds another layer of depth to the dish.

Fried jalapenos not only provide heat but also contribute a slight smokiness and crisp texture that contrasts wonderfully with the tender pork. If you like more spice, feel free to leave the seeds in the jalapenos or even add more to the dish.

The Sweet and Savory Sauce: The Perfect Finishing Touch

The key to bringing everything together is the sauce. The combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and ginger creates a beautifully balanced sauce that’s both sweet and savory. The brown sugar adds a touch of caramelized sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the salty soy sauce, while the rice vinegar provides a slight tang that brightens the entire dish.

The garlic and ginger sautéed at the beginning of the sauce-making process infuse the oil with aromatic flavors, creating a rich, fragrant base for the sauce. Once the sauce thickens, it becomes the perfect glaze for the crispy fried pork and jalapenos, coating them evenly and allowing the flavors to meld together.

For added crunch and visual appeal, the dish is finished with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. These garnishes not only provide texture but also add a touch of freshness that balances the richness of the fried pork and sauce.

Serving Suggestions: A Versatile Dish

Sweet Jalapeno Pork is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are a few ideas for serving:

With Rice: Serve this dish over a bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce. The fluffy rice complements the crispy pork and spicy jalapenos, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
With Noodles: For an alternative to rice, serve the pork and jalapenos with stir-fried noodles or ramen. The noodles will absorb the sauce, adding a new texture and flavor to the dish.
With Vegetables: Pairing this dish with some sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas adds freshness and crunch, helping to balance the richness of the fried pork.
As an Appetizer: Serve the crispy pork and jalapenos as an appetizer for a party or get-together. You can also offer the dipping sauce on the side for guests to enjoy with each bite.
As a Wrap: For a fun twist, wrap the pork and jalapenos in a soft tortilla with some fresh lettuce and a drizzle of extra sauce for a delicious fusion taco.

Why This Dish Is a Family Favorite

Sweet Jalapeno Pork is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together quickly and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The crispy pork, tender jalapenos, and sweet-savory sauce create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that the whole family will love. It’s a dish that’s comforting yet exciting, making it ideal for both casual dinners and more special occasions.

The combination of crispy, tender pork and flavorful, spicy jalapenos gives this dish an extra burst of excitement that’s hard to resist. Whether served as a main course or as an appetizer, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to be a hit at the table.

Conclusion: A Flavorful Dish That Delivers

Sweet Jalapeno Pork is a dynamic and flavorful dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. The crispy fried pork and jalapenos, coated in a garlicky, sweet sauce, create a mouthwatering meal that’s both satisfying and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress and become a staple in your recipe collection.

With its bold flavors, simple preparation, and versatility, Sweet Jalapeno Pork is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make meal. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite!

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