Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork
Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork (using lean loin) is a popular Cantonese dish featuring tender strips of pork loin marinated, lightly battered, and deep-fried until crisp, then tossed in a vibrant, tangy-sweet sauce. The sauce typically blends vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce, often with colorful bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and onions for texture and balance. It originated in Guangdong province and is a staple of Chinese takeout menus worldwide.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is moderate in protein from the lean pork loin but can be high in carbohydrates and fat due to the sugary sauce and frying process. A typical serving (about 1 cup) provides roughly 300-400 calories, along with some vitamin C from the peppers and pineapple, though it's best enjoyed in moderation.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6 mg |
| Phosphorus | 200 mg |
| Zinc | 2.5 mg |
| Selenium | 25 mcg |
Per 1 cup (220 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Sweet and Sour Pork symbolizes the balance of flavors in Chinese cuisine, representing harmony between contrasting tastes. Nutritionally, using lean loin reduces saturated fat compared to fattier cuts, making it a slightly lighter version of this classic comfort food.
