Ingredients:

• 685g boneless pork chops
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Garlic powder, to taste
• Paprika, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons cooking wine (optional)
• Parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Prepare the Pork:
   • Start by cutting the boneless pork chops into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces. This size allows for quick and even cooking, ensuring each piece is tender and juicy.
2. Season the Pork:
   • In a large bowl, season the pork cubes with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning. Let the pork rest for about 20 minutes. This marination time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it more flavorful.
3. Heat the Pan:
   • Place a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, it’s time to add the pork.
4. Cook the Pork:
   • Arrange the pork pieces in a single layer in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry the pork for about 5 minutes on one side until it turns golden brown. Then, flip the pieces over and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side. The pork should be cooked through and have a nice sear on the outside. Remove the pork from the pan and set it aside.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
6. Make the Glaze:
   • Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, ¼ cup of honey, and 2 tablespoons of cooking wine to the pan. Stir the ingredients together and let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes. The sauce should start to thicken slightly as it cooks.
7. Combine Pork and Sauce:
   • Return the cooked pork cubes to the pan, tossing them in the honey garlic sauce. Stir-fry for about 2 more minutes, making sure each piece is well coated in the sticky glaze. The sauce should caramelize and adhere to the pork, creating a beautiful shiny glaze.
8. Serve:
   • Once the pork is evenly coated and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Transfer the honey garlic pork bites to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.

Cooking Tips:

• Pork Cuts: Boneless pork chops are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use pork tenderloin or shoulder for a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Seasoning: Adjust the amount of salt and spices to your taste. You can add a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat in your dish.
• Cooking Wine: The cooking wine adds a depth of flavor to the sauce, but it’s optional. If you don’t have it or prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with chicken broth or water.
• Honey: For a thicker, more caramelized sauce, you can increase the amount of honey. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the honey slightly and add a bit more soy sauce.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover honey garlic pork bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking the pork.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pork bites in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them up in a pan with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 300
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugars: 15g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fiber: 1g

FAQs:

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
   • Yes, you can substitute chicken breast or thigh meat for pork. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
2. What can I serve with honey garlic pork bites?
   • These pork bites are versatile and can be served with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
3. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
   • Make sure to cook the garlic over medium heat and stir it continuously. If the pan is too hot, remove it from the heat temporarily to cool down before adding the garlic.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the pork and sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator, and combine them just before serving. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pork.
5. Is there a way to make this dish less sweet?
   • If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of honey and add more soy sauce or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.
6. Can I use other herbs for garnish?
   • Absolutely! Fresh cilantro or green onions would also work well as garnishes for this dish.
7. What type of cooking wine should I use?
   • A dry white wine or even sherry works well in this recipe. Avoid using sweet wines, as they can make the dish overly sweet.
8. How can I make the sauce thicker?
   • If the sauce is too thin, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.

Conclusion:

Honey Garlic Pork Bites are a fantastic dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors. With its quick preparation and simple ingredients, this recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for gatherings. The tender pork cubes, coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze, offer a satisfying bite that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re serving this over rice, with a side of vegetables, or as part of a larger meal, these pork bites are sure to impress. Experiment with different spices and herbs to make the dish your own, and enjoy the versatility and deliciousness that this recipe brings to your table!