Description
A quick and easy 15-minute homemade version of takeout-style pork bites. These glossy, caramelized bites are made with pantry staples like honey, garlic, and soy sauce, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado or vegetable)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 6–8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Pat pork tenderloin dry and cut into 1-inch cubes. Season with salt and pepper, then toss with cornstarch until lightly coated.
- Heat neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork cubes in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove pork and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the same pan, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the pre-mixed sauce (honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, and red pepper flakes). Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce begins to bubble and thicken.
- Return the cooked pork to the pan. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for another minute until the sauce is glossy and sticky.
- Remove from heat. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately over rice or vegetables.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure the pork sears rather than steams. Use fresh garlic and ginger for best flavor. If the sauce is too thick, add a teaspoon of water; if too thin, simmer for 30 more seconds. For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Served over steamed
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: pork bites, honey garlic pork, quick dinner, takeout recipe, 15 minute meals, sticky pork, easy weeknight dinner