If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant colors and a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, the Pineapple Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brings together tender ground pork, crisp vegetables, and juicy pineapple tidbits, all coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce that’s just the right balance of tangy and sweet. Whether you’re craving something quick for a weeknight meal or impressing guests with something fresh and exciting, this recipe ticks all the boxes and will become a staple you reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simple list of ingredients here—each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture for this stir fry that feels anything but basic. From the savory depth of ground pork to the brightness of fresh ginger, every ingredient adds something special.
- 1 pound ground pork: The star protein that provides rich, juicy flavor and a satisfying bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Helps brown the pork beautifully and sauté the veggies without overpowering them.
- 1/2 medium onion (bite-size pieces): Adds a mild sweetness and a little crunch, balancing the dish perfectly.
- 1/2 red bell pepper (bite-size pieces): For vibrant color and a sweet, slightly peppery crunch.
- 2 cups broccoli florets (cut small): Brings fresh green color and a crisp texture, making every bite interesting.
- 1 (8 ounce) can pineapple tidbits (drained): Adds juicy bursts of tropical sweetness that set this stir fry apart.
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (reserved from can): Foundation for the sauce, gives a fruity tanginess.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Essential umami that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider or rice vinegar: Provides acidity to brighten the whole dish.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally for balance without being cloying.
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Adds a warm, nutty aroma that makes the dish feel special.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated): Injects a fresh zing that wakes up your taste buds.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Classic stir-fry flavor powerhouse that melds everything together.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps the sauce thicken up nicely to coat every bite.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances all the natural flavors.
How to Make Pineapple Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Mix the Sauce
Before you even heat the pan, gather all your ingredients and chop the veggies so everything is ready to go—once the cooking starts, things move fast! Whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. If your pineapple juice is less than half a cup, just add a bit of water to make up the difference. This sauce is the magic that brings all the flavors together.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Pork
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and let it brown, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks. This should take about 7 to 10 minutes. You want the pork fully cooked and nicely browned for that extra savory flavor. Once done, transfer it along with any juices to a plate and keep it warm.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Pineapple
In the same skillet, add your remaining olive oil and toss in the onions first, cooking just until translucent. Then add in the red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and pineapple tidbits. Stir frequently and let the veggies cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’re aiming for tender-crisp here, so they still have a bite, but feel free to cook longer if you like them softer.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked pork to the skillet and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together and let the sauce bubble for a minute or two until it thickens up slightly. This step coats every piece of pork and vegetable in a glossy, flavorful glaze. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed before taking it off the heat.
How to Serve Pineapple Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top for an extra pop of flavor and texture. Fresh cilantro also pairs beautifully if you want to add a fresh herbal note. These simple additions can make your dish feel restaurant-quality right at home.
Side Dishes
This stir fry shines best served over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, try it with noodles like lo mein or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A light cucumber salad on the side provides a cool contrast to the warm, savory stir fry.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir fry inside hollowed-out pineapple halves. Not only does this amp up the tropical vibe, but it also makes for an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for entertaining. Or transform leftovers into lettuce wraps with a squeeze of lime for a fresh handheld treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, making day two even more delicious. Just be sure your veggies still have a bit of crunch to keep the texture interesting.
Freezing
You can freeze the Pineapple Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe by placing it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. It’s best used within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture. To avoid sogginess upon thawing, consider slightly undercooking the vegetables initially if you plan to freeze.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to warm evenly without overcooking the vegetables. If the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration, splash in a little water or broth to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used for a leaner version, though pork offers a bit more richness. Adjust cooking time just slightly to make sure it’s cooked through and still juicy.
Is fresh pineapple better than canned for this recipe?
Canned pineapple is super convenient and provides consistent sweetness and juice that’s perfect for the sauce. Fresh pineapple can be used if you want, but be sure to drain it well and reserve some juice to keep that signature tangy flavor.
How spicy is this stir fry?
This recipe is on the mild side, focusing on the sweet and savory balance. If you love heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and double-check any other packaged ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftovers are fantastic over fresh rice or tossed through a quick scramble of eggs for a breakfast twist. You can also use the stir fry as a filling for wraps or tacos for an easy second meal.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with extraordinary flavor. It’s quick to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and versatile enough for any meal occasion. Once you try it, you’ll likely find yourself reaching for this recipe whenever you want a dish that feels like a tropical getaway on a plate. Go ahead and give it a whirl—you won’t regret it!
Print
Pineapple Ground Pork Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
This flavorful Ground Pork Stir Fry combines savory pork with a colorful mix of fresh vegetables and sweet pineapple tidbits, all coated in a tangy and slightly sweet sauce. Perfect for a quick, wholesome dinner, this stir fry is easy to prepare, cooks in under 30 minutes, and offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1/2 medium onion, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1/2 red bell pepper, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut small
- 1 (8 ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained (reserve 1/2 cup juice for sauce)
Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple, topped with water if less)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: Whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch in a bowl. If pineapple juice is less than 1/2 cup, add water to make up the difference.
- Cook the ground pork: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground pork and sauté for 7-10 minutes, breaking the meat apart as it cooks until fully browned and cooked through.
- Remove pork from skillet: Transfer cooked pork and its juices to a plate or bowl and set aside.
- Sauté onions: Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté onion pieces for about 1 minute until slightly softened.
- Cook vegetables and pineapple: Add red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and pineapple tidbits to the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp or longer if a softer texture is desired.
- Combine pork and sauce: Return cooked pork to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Cook, stirring continuously, for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats all ingredients evenly. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles of choice.
Notes
- Prep all ingredients before cooking as the stir fry cooks quickly.
- Adjust cooking times for vegetables according to desired tenderness.
- If pineapple juice is insufficient, supplement with water to maintain sauce consistency.
- Serve over rice, noodles, or enjoy as is for a low-carb option.
- This dish can be customized with other vegetables such as snap peas or carrots if desired.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
