Pork Fried Rice Meatballs With Homemade Sweet And Sour Sauce

If you’re craving a delicious fusion of flavors that will transport you to the bustling streets of a vibrant Asian market, look no further than this recipe for Pork Fried Rice Meatballs with Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce. This dish combines the comforting elements of pork fried rice with the delightful tanginess of a classic sweet and sour sauce, resulting in a meal that’s sure to please your taste buds and impress your family and friends.

The recipe is not only an innovative twist on traditional meatballs but also a testament to the creativity of Asian-inspired cuisine. Perfect for a family dinner or a party appetizer, these meatballs offer a unique blend of savory and sweet flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup cooked jasmine rice (leftover rice works best)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce

• 1/2 cup rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup green bell pepper, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, cooked jasmine rice, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, egg, and panko breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.

Making the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1. Prepare the Sauce Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
3. Add Pineapple and Bell Peppers (Optional): For an added burst of flavor and color, stir in the pineapple chunks and chopped bell peppers. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened.

Combine and Serve

1. Coat the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a large serving bowl. Pour the homemade sweet and sour sauce over the meatballs, gently tossing them to ensure they are evenly coated.
2. Garnish and Serve: Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with additional chopped green onions or sesame seeds, if desired. These meatballs pair perfectly with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips and Variations

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This can save time when hosting a dinner party.
• Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
• Substitute Ingredients: Feel free to substitute ground pork with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari sauce instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
• Serving Suggestions: These meatballs are versatile and can be served with a side of stir-fried vegetables or as a filling for bao buns.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Simple Pork Fried Rice Meatballs with Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce are a delightful addition to any meal plan. This dish’s savory pork flavor perfectly complements the tangy, sweet sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience with each bite. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or serving them as appetizers at your next gathering, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.

We hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious meatballs as much as we do! If you try this recipe, we’d love to hear about your experience. Please leave a comment below, share this recipe with your friends and family on social media, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more mouthwatering recipes.