This Sticky Honey Garlic Pork is sweet, tangy, and super easy to whip up! It features tender pork coated in a sticky sauce that will have you licking your plate clean.
I love how quick it is to make this dish. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: I recommend using pork loin or tenderloin for tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken or firm tofu work well too! Both can soak up the sauce nicely.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but I’d suggest 1/8 teaspoon per clove for a mild flavor hit.
Honey: While honey is the star for sweetness, maple syrup or agave nectar can be great substitutes if needed. They’ll provide a similar sticky texture.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari. It provides the same salty taste without gluten. Coconut aminos can also be a milder alternative.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar or white vinegar will work too. Just use slightly less as they can be more acidic.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sticky Sauce?
To get that ideal sticky sauce, the cooking method really matters! First, cooking the pork until it’s browned adds the flavor depth you want. Then, when you add the sauce, allow it to simmer. This helps concentrate the flavors.
- Cook the pork in a single layer for best browning; don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Let the sauce simmer to thicken before adding the cornstarch slurry.
- Once you add the slurry, stir quickly and watch for that glossy finish. It only takes a minute!
Trust me, this sticky sauce will have everyone loving every bite!
Sticky Honey Garlic Pork Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork:
- 1 lb (450g) pork loin or tenderloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional, for slight tang)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
- For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (e.g., thyme or chopped green onion), optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and slicing the pork and then about 20 minutes cooking everything together. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot enough before adding the pork; this will help achieve a nice browning.
2. Cook the Pork:
Add the sliced pork strips to the skillet in a single layer. Cook until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring to avoid burning.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the pork is cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Mix in the Sauce Ingredients:
Now, stir in the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar (if you’re using it), and black pepper. Mix everything together well so that the pork gets coated in that sticky goodness.
5. Let the Sauce Thicken:
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This will help it reduce and thicken nicely.
6. Add the Cornstarch Slurry:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry into the skillet. Keep cooking for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is glossy and sticky, perfectly coating the pork!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat when it reaches the right consistency. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. Enjoy your delicious sticky honey garlic pork!
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or breasts work well as a substitute. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and adjust the cooking time slightly as chicken may take a little less time to cook through compared to pork.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat to maintain the sauce’s sticky texture, adding a few drops of water if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! For a kick of heat, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when you’re mixing in the sauce. Adjust the amount to your taste preference, starting with 1/4 teaspoon and increasing as desired.
What Should I Serve with Sticky Honey Garlic Pork?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or sautéed vegetables. You can also toss in a side salad to create a balanced meal. Enjoy experimenting with your favorites!
