Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor and color, the Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe is an absolute winner. This vibrant stir fry blends tender pork with a luscious sauce that’s both sweet and spicy, brightened by juicy pineapple and a medley of crisp vegetables. Every bite offers a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and fiery notes that will make your taste buds dance and your kitchen smell irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is a straightforward yet impressive way to bring excitement to your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe thrives on simple, accessible ingredients that come together beautifully to create a dish full of texture, flavor, and vibrant colors. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to enhance the harmony between the pork, the sweetness of pineapple, and the fresh crunch of vegetables.

  • 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce base.
  • ¼ cup soy sauce: Brings the perfect salty umami punch.
  • 3 tablespoons honey: Balances heat with natural sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice: Infuses a refreshing tartness that brightens flavors.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced): Provides savory aromatic warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha (or hot sauce): Lends a controllable spicy kick.
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds gentle spice and earthiness.
  • ¼ teaspoon sesame oil: Delivers a nutty, fragrant undertone.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Ensures the sauce thickens to the ideal consistency.
  • 1 ½ lbs. boneless pork chops: The tender protein star of the dish, cut for quick cooking.
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the pork perfectly.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for pork coating): Helps create a beautiful sear.
  • 1-2 tablespoons peanut oil (or olive oil): For stir-frying, adding a subtle richness.
  • ¼ cup dry white wine: Adds complexity to the sauce while deglazing the pan.
  • 1 yellow onion: Offers sweetness and texture.
  • 2 ½ cups broccoli florets: Provides a satisfying crunch and vibrant green color.
  • 2 ribs celery: Adds crispness and subtle herbal notes.
  • ½ cup julienned carrots: Brings a burst of color and natural sweetness.
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced): Infuses sweetness and bright red color.
  • 1 (15.25 oz.) can pineapple chunks, drained (juice reserved): The sweet tropical highlight that pairs perfectly with spicy pork.
  • 1-2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter (optional): Adds creamy depth and slight richness to the sauce.
  • Green onions and toasted sesame seeds (for garnish): They finish the dish with fresh bite and a beautiful toasted crunch.
  • Rice: Perfect for serving, soaking up all the delicious juices.

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by whisking together the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, sriracha, ground ginger, sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a bowl. This creates the luscious sweet and spicy base that will coat every ingredient and bring the dish to life.

Step 2: Prep the Pork

Trim the boneless pork chops and slice them thinly against the grain for tender bites. Season with salt and pepper, then toss with 1 tablespoon cornstarch to get a nice surface that will crisp up during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Pork

Heat peanut or olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking until golden and just cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the white wine to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits to maximize flavor. Toss in the yellow onion, broccoli florets, celery, carrots, and red bell pepper. Stir-fry until vegetables are bright, tender-crisp, and slightly caramelized—about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Thicken

Return the pork to the pan, then stir in the pineapple chunks and reserved pineapple juice. If you like a richer sauce, add smooth peanut butter now and stir until it melts and blends smoothly. Pour in the prepared sauce and cook until thickened and glossy, coating everything beautifully.

How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe

Garnishes

To really elevate this Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe, sprinkle fresh chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top just before serving. They add a lovely fresh crunch and visual appeal that makes every bite extra special.

Side Dishes

Serve this stir fry over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the irresistible sauce. For an extra layer, a side of simple stir-fried greens or a crisp cucumber salad balances the rich flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Serve the stir fry in hollowed-out pineapple halves for a tropical touch that’s as charming as it is flavorful. Alternatively, wrap the mixture in lettuce leaves for a fresh, hand-held twist that’s perfect for casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe tastes just as wonderful the next day. Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight.

Freezing

If you want to keep this delicious dish longer, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure an even temperature without drying out the pork or vegetables. Adding a splash of water or broth helps maintain that lovely saucy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken or beef instead of pork in this Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with chicken breast or thighs and even beef strips. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is tender and fully cooked.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can create a fantastic vegetarian variation by substituting the pork with firm tofu or tempeh and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The sauce and vegetables remain the same, making it just as vibrant and tasty.

How spicy is this stir fry?

The heat level is adjustable! Using 1 teaspoon of sriracha provides a gentle kick, but feel free to add more or less based on your preference. The sweetness of honey and pineapple helps mellow out the spice nicely.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the recipe gluten-free. Double-check other ingredients like cornstarch and hot sauce to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

Jasmine rice is a classic choice for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, but basmati or even brown rice are excellent alternatives if you want a nuttier flavor or added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Giving the Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe a try is like inviting a burst of sunshine onto your dinner table. Its perfect balance of sweet fruitiness, spicy warmth, and fresh vegetables makes every meal feel like a celebration. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this heartwarming dish again and again—it really is a kitchen favorite that’s both simple to make and unforgettable to taste.

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Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe

Sweet and Spicy Pork Stir Fry with Pineapple and Vegetables Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 21 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian

Description

This Pork Stir Fry recipe is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring tender pork chops cooked to perfection with a savory and slightly sweet sauce. Combining fresh vegetables, pineapple chunks, and a blend of aromatic ingredients like garlic, ginger, and sriracha, this stir fry is a perfect quick and satisfying meal for four people. Served best over steamed rice and garnished with toasted sesame seeds and green onions, it brings a delicious balance of textures and tastes to your table.


Ingredients

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha (or substitute hot sauce)
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ¼ cup dry white wine
  • Juice reserved from 1 (15.25 oz.) can pineapple chunks
  • 12 tablespoons smooth peanut butter (optional)

Protein

  • 1 ½ lbs. boneless pork chops
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for coating pork)

Vegetables

  • 1 yellow onion, sliced
  • 2 ½ cups broccoli florets
  • 2 ribs celery, sliced
  • ½ cup carrots, julienned
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 (15.25 oz.) can pineapple chunks, drained well

Oils and Garnish

  • 12 tablespoons peanut oil (or substitute olive oil)
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Cooked rice (for serving)


Instructions

  1. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, sriracha, ground ginger, sesame oil, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, white wine, reserved pineapple juice, and peanut butter (if using). Set this sauce mixture aside.
  2. Prepare the Pork: Slice the boneless pork chops into thin strips. Season them with salt and pepper, then dust with 1 tablespoon cornstarch to lightly coat.
  3. Cook the Pork: Heat peanut or olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the pork strips and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the yellow onion until translucent. Add broccoli florets, sliced celery, julienned carrots, and diced red bell pepper. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
  5. Add Pineapple and Sauce: Add the drained pineapple chunks to the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and stir well. Cook everything together, stirring constantly, for about 3-5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and is glossy.
  6. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked pork to the skillet and toss everything together evenly to coat the pork and vegetables with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
  7. Serve: Garnish the stir fry with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Use peanut oil or olive oil depending on your preference and availability.
  • Sriracha can be adjusted to taste or replaced with another hot sauce for different heat levels.
  • The optional peanut butter adds a creamy, nutty flavor but can be omitted for a lighter sauce.
  • Make sure to drain the pineapple chunks well to avoid watering down the sauce.
  • For a gluten-free version, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
  • Vegetables can be substituted or added according to your preference, such as snap peas or mushrooms.

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