There’s something truly delightful about the medley of flavors that come together in this Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice. Picture this: you walk into your kitchen and are immediately enveloped by the enticing aroma of tender pork simmering in a tangy, luscious sauce. It’s a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also evokes joy, making any weeknight feel special.
When the daily grind of fast food starts to wear thin, this recipe is your ticket back to wholesome, homemade goodness. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you’ll whip up a delicious meal that appeals to both budding chefs and seasoned home cooks alike. The combination of sweet pineapple juice and zesty rice vinegar perfectly complements the savory pork and crisp broccoli, creating a harmony of taste and texture that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. Join me in this culinary adventure and let’s bring a little restaurant flair to your home cooking!
Why will you love Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is super easy, requiring minimal cooking skills and just a handful of ingredients.
Flavor Explosion: The fusion of sweet pineapple juice and tangy rice vinegar creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the tender pork.
Quick Weeknight Meal: Ready in just 36 minutes, it’s a perfect solution for those busy evenings when homemade comfort food is a must.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Family and friends will love the colorful mix of broccoli and peppers, making it visually appealing and nutritious.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or sauces for a personalized twist.
Transform your weeknight dinners with this blissful recipe and discover a new favorite in your meal lineup!
Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork Ingredients
Ready to create a memorable meal?
For the Pork
- Pork loin chops – 2 lbs of flavorful meat that turns tender and juicy in the Instant Pot.
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp to help brown the pork and add richness.
For the Rice
- Long grain white rice – 2 cups that soak up all the delicious flavors beautifully.
- Water – 2 cups to cook the rice to perfection.
For the Sauce
- Brown sugar – 2/3 cup packed for that sweet, irresistible taste.
- Corn starch – 2 tbsp for thickening the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- Pineapple juice – 1 cup to lend a vibrant sweetness with a tropical twist.
- Rice vinegar – 1/3 cup for that tangy bite that balances the sweetness.
- Ketchup – 4 tbsp to add a familiar richness to the sauce.
- Soy sauce – 2 tbsp for a savory depth that ties all the flavors together.
For the Veggies
- Orange or red pepper – 1, diced for a burst of color and crunch.
- Broccoli florets – 1 bunch to add nutrition and a satisfying texture.
Embrace the magic of this Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice dish by gathering these essential ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to serving an impressive homemade meal!
How to Make Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice
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Chop the Pork: Begin by cutting your pork loin chops into bite-sized pieces. This helps ensure even cooking and allows the pork to absorb all the delicious flavors.
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Sauté the Pork: Turn your Instant Pot to the Saute Less function for 3 minutes, then add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the pork pieces, stirring until they’re nicely browned on most sides.
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Deglaze the Pot: After the Saute function shuts off, pour in one cup of water to deglaze the Pot. Scrape up any tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom for maximum flavor.
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Add Remaining Water: Pour in the additional cup of water. This will provide enough liquid for the rice to cook perfectly.
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Layer the Rice: Gently sprinkle the rice over the liquid. Do not stir it; instead, push it down slightly to ensure it’s submerged in the water.
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Seal the Pot: Place the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the steam release handle is set to the sealing position. Select Pressure Cook, set to High for 6 minutes.
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Mix the Sauce: While the pork and rice are cooking, blend the brown sugar and corn starch in a small bowl. Then, add the pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Stir until well combined.
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Prepare the Veggies: Dice the orange pepper and separate your broccoli florets. Set them aside to add a vibrant crunch to your dish.
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Quick Release: Once the cooking time is complete, turn the steam release handle to the venting position for a Quick Release. Keep your hands clear of escaping steam!
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Stir and Thicken: Remove the lid where you’ll see perfectly cooked pork and rice. Stir the contents well and return the Saute Less function for 5 minutes before adding the prepared sauce.
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Add the Veggies: Toss in the broccoli and chopped pepper, stirring until they’re just tender and the Pot turns off. This step should take only a few minutes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Scoop your delicious Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice onto plates and serve hot, letting everyone dig into this flavorful feast!
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists on your Instant Pot creation!
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Dairy-Free: Simply skip any butter or cheese and enjoy the dish as is, savoring the natural flavors.
Sneaking in a touch of coconut milk in the sauce can add a rich, creamy element without compromising taste. -
Vegetarian: Replace pork with diced tofu or tempeh for a plant-based dish that still packs a protein punch.
Pan-fry the tofu until golden for added texture, then follow the rest of the recipe as directed. -
Pineapple Jam: If you crave a sweeter touch, include a scoop of pineapple jam or chunks mixed into the sauce.
This change ties together the flavors beautifully, elevating the sweetness and creating a luscious coating. -
Spicy Kick: Spice up the dish by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
It’s a delightful way to give your sweet and sour a fiery punch that will awaken your taste buds. -
Brown Rice: Swap out white rice for brown rice for a heartier and healthier alternative.
Just remember, you’ll need to increase the cooking time slightly as brown rice takes longer to cook through. -
Mixed Veggies: Change up the veggies by incorporating snap peas, carrots, or even green beans to boost both flavor and nutrition.
Experimenting with a medley not only introduces new tastes but also makes your dish more colorful! -
Teriyaki Style: For an Asian twist, substitute the soy sauce and ketchup with teriyaki sauce for a rich, tangy flavor profile.
The teriyaki undertones will give your meal a delightful twist that’s both familiar and exciting. -
Mango Salsa: Top the finished dish with fresh mango salsa for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
This refreshing addition brightens up the plate and adds a glorious contrast to the savory notes.
Expand your culinary creativity and let each variation unfold new potential in every spoonful!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice?
Imagine elevating your weeknight dinner with delightful sides that create a feast for all senses.
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Steamed Broccoli: A classic pairing! The freshness of steamed broccoli echoes the crispness of the dish’s main flavors.
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Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet and aromatic rice offers a tropical twist that complements the sweet and sour sauce beautifully.
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Garlic Naan: Soft and warm garlic naan can be a delightful tool for scooping up the pork and sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: Their crunchy texture and savory filling vibe perfectly with the tangy pork, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
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Mango Salad: A refreshing mix of ripe mango, cucumber, and cilantro adds brightness and a fruity contrast, balancing the dish’s flavors.
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Chilled Green Tea: The light and refreshing nature of this beverage is perfect for cleansing the palate between bites of the rich meal.
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Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, consider a light fruit sorbet. The fruity flavor harmonizes with the dish’s sweet profile, making a delightful finale.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice
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Pork Temperature: Ensure your pork is cooked to 145°F for optimum tenderness. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough meat.
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Rice Layering: When adding the rice, gently press it down into the liquid but refrain from stirring. This prevents it from becoming mushy and ensures even cooking.
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Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin after adding it to the pork and rice, let it simmer longer on the Saute function to thicken.
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Vegetable Crunch: For bright, crisp veggies, add them towards the end of the cooking process. This keeps them vibrant and full of nutrients.
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Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra flavor kick in your Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice
Fridge: Store leftover Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If it seems dry, add a splash of water for moisture and stir gently.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftovers for meal prep by turning them into wraps or topping on a salad for a delicious lunch option.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can cut the pork into bite-sized pieces and prepare the sauce (mix brown sugar, corn starch, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the pork and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain quality. The rice can also be measured and rinsed, ready to go when you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy the meal, just follow the final cooking instructions, and you’ll have an irresistible dish on the table with minimal effort—just as delicious as if you made it on the spot!
Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for pork loin chops that are bright pink with some marbling for tenderness. The broccoli should be vibrant green with tightly closed florets. As for the orange or red pepper, select ones that feel firm with smooth skin, avoiding any with dark spots.
How should I store leftovers of Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the flavors again without losing freshness.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice?
Very! To freeze, portion the dish into airtight freezer bags or containers and store them for up to 2 months. Remember to label the containers with the date. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What if I encounter mushy rice during cooking?
Oh no! If your rice ends up mushy, it might have been overcooked or stirred too much before cooking. For next time, remember to gently layer the rice and not stir after adding it. If it’s too late, try adding some fresh veggies or even nuts to add texture to the dish!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! For those with soy allergies, I recommend using tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce. Additionally, if you’re making this dish for pets, it’s best to skip the sauce ingredients, as onions and garlic found in many sauces can be harmful to them. Always check the individual ingredients.
How do I make the sauce thicker if it’s too runny?
If you find that the sauce is too thin after cooking, here’s a quick fix: Return the Instant Pot to the Saute function after stirring in the sauce, and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. You can also mix a bit of cornstarch with water (1 tbsp each) and stir it in for a quick thickening boost.
Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Pork and Rice Made Easy at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop the Pork: Begin by cutting your pork loin chops into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Pork: Turn your Instant Pot to the Saute Less function for 3 minutes and add olive oil.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in one cup of water to deglaze the Pot and scrape brown bits.
- Add Remaining Water: Pour in an additional cup of water.
- Layer the Rice: Sprinkle rice over the liquid, gently pushing it down.
- Seal the Pot: Close the lid and set to Pressure Cook, High for 6 minutes.
- Mix the Sauce: Blend brown sugar and corn starch, then add pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce.
- Prepare the Veggies: Dice the orange pepper and separate broccoli florets.
- Quick Release: After cooking, turn steam release to venting for a Quick Release.
- Stir and Thicken: Stir contents then return to Saute Less for 5 minutes before adding sauce.
- Add the Veggies: Toss in broccoli and chopped pepper, stirring until tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Scoop onto plates and serve hot.