Tangsuyuk sweet and sour pork

tangsuyuk_sweet_and_sour_pork

Korean cuisine is known for its diverse flavors and rich textures that make every dish a delightful experience for the palate. Among the many popular Korean dishes, Tangsuyuk, a sweet and sour pork dish, is one of the most famous and iconic dishes that have captured the hearts of food lovers all over the world.

Tangsuyuk, which literally translates to “sweet and sour pork” in Korean, is a delicious dish that combines the flavors of juicy pork, crispy vegetables, and a sweet and tangy sauce. This dish is a popular choice for many Koreans as it is easy to make, and it appeals to a wide range of taste preferences. Its unique blend of spicy, sour, and sweet flavors makes it a perfect dish that can be a great addition to any special occasion, get-together or simply as a quick and easy meal at home.

Tangsuyuk originated from a Chinese dish called Tangcu Liji, and it has gradually evolved into a unique Korean dish with its own distinctive flavor and style. Traditionally, tangsuyuk was made by deep-frying thin slices of pork and then stir-frying them with various vegetables, including onions, carrots, and bell peppers. The dish was then smothered in a sweet and sour sauce, and served with a steaming bowl of rice.

However, in recent years, Korean chefs have put their spin on the traditional recipe, incorporating new ingredients and cooking techniques to create a unique and modern twist on this beloved classic. Today, there are many variations of tangsuyuk, each with its own unique flavor and texture.

To make the Korean-style Tangsuyuk, thin slices of lean pork are coated with cornstarch and egg wash, then fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The pork is then tossed with a colorful medley of carrots, onions, and bell peppers, which add a vibrant flavor and texture to the dish. The sauce, which is the star of the dish, is a perfect balance of sweet and acidic, made by simmering pineapple juice, vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce.

What sets Korean Tangsuyuk apart from other sweet and sour dishes is its balanced flavor profile. While the sweet and sour sauce is a staple in many Chinese dishes, Korean Tangsuyuk uses natural sweeteners like pineapple juice and brown sugar to achieve a unique and more complex flavor. The dish’s sweetness is balanced by the tangy acidity of the vinegar, creating a pleasant contrast that enhances the overall culinary experience.

Korean Tangsuyuk is not just a dish, it is a cultural icon that represents the rich culinary heritage of Korea. It is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of Korean chefs who have taken a Chinese-inspired dish and created a unique and distinct flavor of their own. Whether enjoyed in a restaurant or cooked at home, Korean Tangsuyuk is a dish that brings people together and creates unforgettable memories.

Ingredients:

  • 500g pork loin or tenderloin, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix flour and cornstarch. Coat pork slices with flour mixture, dip into egg mixture, then coat with flour mixture again.

  2. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat until hot. Fry pork slices until golden brown and crispy, then transfer to paper towels to drain.

  3. In another pan, sauté garlic and onion until fragrant. Add bell peppers and carrot, and cook for 1-2 minutes.

  4. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and water. Stir until sugar dissolves.

  5. Add the sauce mixture to the pan with vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 2 minutes.

  6. Add the fried pork slices to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.

  7. Serve hot with rice. Enjoy your delicious Korean Tangsuyuk sweet and sour pork!