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Authentic Sweet and Sour Pork (Tang Cu Li Ji)

A classic dish defined by its contrasting textures and flavors. Lean pork is coated in a heavy wet starch batter and double-fried for maximum crispness, then rapidly tossed in a bright, glossy sauce balanced precisely between sugar and black vinegar, without the heavy use of ketchup found in Westernized versions.

ChinesePrep: 30 minCook: 30 minTotal: 1h
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  1. 1

    . Toss the pork with Shaoxing wine, a pinch of salt, and white pepper. Let sit 15 mins .

  2. 2

    The Batter. Mix the starch and egg white with just enough water to create a thick, sticky batter. Coat the pork pieces completely.

  3. 3

    The First . Heat oil to 320°F (160°C). the pork in batches until the coating is set and pale golden (about 4 mins ). Remove and drain. This cooks the meat.

  4. 4

    The Second (Crucial). Increase oil heat to 390°F (200°C). Return all the pork to the wok. for 1 minute until deeply golden and intensely crispy. Remove and drain.

  5. 5

    The Sauce. Mix sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and 1 tsp cornstarch with a splash of water.

  6. 6

    Combine. Leave 1 tbsp oil in the wok. Quickly the bell peppers. Pour in the sauce mixture; it will bubble and thicken instantly.

  7. 7

    Glaze. Immediately toss the crispy pork into the thickened sauce. Toss rapidly to coat, then remove from heat immediately so the crust doesn't become soggy. Serve.

📋Details

CuisineChinese
Meal Typemain

⚗Elemental Properties

🔥Fire
21%
💧Water
39%
🌍Earth
21%
💨Air
19%

⚗️Alchemical Scores

MonicaConstant
—/100
Heat1%
Entropy4%
Reactivity94%
0.074
Heat
0.223
Entropy
4.991
Reactivity

📊Nutrition Per Serving

70.63cal
Per serving
% Daily Value
4%
of 2000 cal
protein1.14g6%
carbs17.49g99%
fat0.09g1%
% Daily Value
Protein
1.14g2%
Carbs
17.49g6%
Fat
0.09g0%
Fiber
0.94g3%
Sugar
12.63g25%
Sodium
14.52mg1%