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So Yum Recipes

Sweet and Sour Chicken Better Than Takeout Delight

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For this tasty dish, you will need: - 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/2 cup bell peppers (red and green), chopped - 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned) - 1/2 cup onion, diced - 1/4 cup sugar - 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar - 3 tablespoons ketchup - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - Salt and pepper to taste These ingredients blend well to create a delightful flavor. The chicken gives protein. The bell peppers add crunch and color. Pineapple brings sweetness and tang. The sauce ties it all together with a perfect balance. For extra flair, consider adding: - Sesame seeds - Chopped green onions These garnishes enhance the look and taste of your dish. They add a nice crunch and a fresh note. To make this dish, gather: - A large skillet - A mixing bowl - A small bowl for the sauce - A spatula or wooden spoon - Measuring cups and spoons Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more fun. With these items, you can whip up Sweet and Sour Chicken in no time. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix the chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and cornstarch. This helps the chicken stay tender. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This step adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. This sauce is the heart of the dish, giving it that sweet and tangy flavor. Set it aside for later. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. It should turn golden brown on all sides. This step locks in the juices and flavor. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still crisp. This adds great texture and color to your dish. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together nicely. If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water. Add this mixture to the skillet while stirring continuously. This will thicken the sauce to your liking. It makes the dish richer and more satisfying. Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your sweet and sour chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. This adds a lovely finish and a pop of color. - Cooking Time Details: - Prep Time: 15 minutes - Total Time: 35 minutes - Servings: 4 You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Both options work great! For a different flavor, try using mango instead of pineapple. You can also use rice vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar. If you want less sugar, honey or agave syrup are good choices. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Fresh bell peppers and pineapple add a bright flavor. Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the flavors to soak in. When cooking, make sure your skillet is hot. This will brown the chicken nicely. Don't rush the simmering stage. Letting the sauce bubble will deepen the flavor. One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. It should be golden but not dry. Another error is not cutting veggies evenly. Uneven pieces cook at different rates. Also, be careful with the sauce. Adding too much cornstarch can make it too thick. Lastly, don’t skip garnishing. Sesame seeds and green onions make it look nice and add flavor. Pro Tips Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps to infuse it with flavor and tenderizes the meat. Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh bell peppers and pineapple. Fresh produce enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the sauce based on your preference for sweetness. Taste as you go! Thickening Tips: If you want a thicker sauce, always mix cornstarch with a bit of water before adding it to your dish to avoid clumping. {{image_2}} You can easily add a twist to this recipe. Try using different fruits like mango or orange. These fruits give a fresh taste and a burst of color. You can also switch the bell peppers for snap peas or zucchini. This change gives the dish a crunchy texture. Adding cashews or almonds can give an extra crunch. You can even add a splash of orange juice to the sauce for more depth. These small changes can make your dish unique and exciting. If you want a vegetarian option, use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Cube the tofu and press it to remove excess water. Then, marinate it just as you would the chicken. Cook it until golden brown, just like the chicken. You can also use seitan for a meat-like texture. For a seafood option, shrimp works well too. Just adjust the cooking time, as shrimp cooks fast. These alternatives keep the sweet and sour flavor while fitting different diets. To serve this dish, you can keep it simple. Serve over fluffy white rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option. For a fun twist, try serving it in lettuce cups. This makes a great appetizer or light meal. Pair it with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra veggies. For a festive touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top. This adds flavor and a pop of color to your plate. To keep your sweet and sour chicken fresh, follow these steps: - Let the dish cool to room temperature. - Place it in an airtight container. - Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Proper storage prevents spoilage and keeps the flavors intact. You can freeze sweet and sour chicken for later use: - Allow the dish to cool completely. - Transfer it to a freezer-safe container. - Seal tightly and label with the date. - Freeze for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy this tasty meal anytime! Reheating sweet and sour chicken is easy: - For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge. - Heat it in a skillet over medium heat. - Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your meal just like it was fresh! Yes, you can use other proteins in this dish. Chicken is popular, but shrimp, pork, or tofu work well too. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the protein cooks through. For shrimp, cook until they turn pink. For pork, ensure it reaches the right temperature for safety. To add heat to your Sweet and Sour Chicken, use red pepper flakes or chili paste. Start with a small amount. You can also add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for more spice. Mix these into the sauce or sauté with the veggies for an extra kick. Sweet and Sour Chicken pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it with noodles for a fun twist. Try adding a side of stir-fried vegetables for extra color and nutrition. A simple green salad can also balance the meal. This recipe is better than takeout for several reasons. First, you control the ingredients and can use fresh produce. Second, it's quick and easy to make at home. You’ll enjoy the flavors without the extra oil and sodium found in many takeout dishes. Lastly, it’s fun to cook and share with family and friends. This blog taught you how to make sweet and sour chicken from scratch. You learned about key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips for success. I shared fun variations and storage tips too. Now, you have everything you need to impress at dinner. Enjoy your cooking and make it your own. Creating this dish can be fun and rewarding.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving sweet and sour chicken? This recipe will blow takeout out of the water! With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a dish that’s not just tasty but also healthier than restaurant options. Say goodbye to takeout nights and hello to your new favorite dinner. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and color! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe.

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and tangy sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and crunchy vegetables, creating a delightful taste experience.
  2. Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  3. Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the bell peppers, pineapple, and garnishes make this dish visually appealing and appetizing.
  4. Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or proteins to suit your taste or dietary preferences, making it versatile for everyone.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Sweet and Sour Chicken

For this tasty dish, you will need:

– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1/2 cup bell peppers (red and green), chopped

– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

– 1/2 cup onion, diced

– 1/4 cup sugar

– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

– 3 tablespoons ketchup

– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients blend well to create a delightful flavor. The chicken gives protein. The bell peppers add crunch and color. Pineapple brings sweetness and tang. The sauce ties it all together with a perfect balance.

Optional Garnishes

For extra flair, consider adding:

– Sesame seeds

– Chopped green onions

These garnishes enhance the look and taste of your dish. They add a nice crunch and a fresh note.

Equipment Needed

To make this dish, gather:

– A large skillet

– A mixing bowl

– A small bowl for the sauce

– A spatula or wooden spoon

– Measuring cups and spoons

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more fun. With these items, you can whip up Sweet and Sour Chicken in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

First, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix the chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and cornstarch. This helps the chicken stay tender. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This step adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. This sauce is the heart of the dish, giving it that sweet and tangy flavor. Set it aside for later.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. It should turn golden brown on all sides. This step locks in the juices and flavor.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still crisp. This adds great texture and color to your dish.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together nicely.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water. Add this mixture to the skillet while stirring continuously. This will thicken the sauce to your liking. It makes the dish richer and more satisfying.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your sweet and sour chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. This adds a lovely finish and a pop of color.

– Cooking Time Details:

– Prep Time: 15 minutes

– Total Time: 35 minutes

– Servings: 4

Tips & Tricks

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Both options work great! For a different flavor, try using mango instead of pineapple. You can also use rice vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar. If you want less sugar, honey or agave syrup are good choices.

How to Achieve the Best Flavor

Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Fresh bell peppers and pineapple add a bright flavor. Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the flavors to soak in. When cooking, make sure your skillet is hot. This will brown the chicken nicely. Don’t rush the simmering stage. Letting the sauce bubble will deepen the flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. It should be golden but not dry. Another error is not cutting veggies evenly. Uneven pieces cook at different rates. Also, be careful with the sauce. Adding too much cornstarch can make it too thick. Lastly, don’t skip garnishing. Sesame seeds and green onions make it look nice and add flavor.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps to infuse it with flavor and tenderizes the meat.
  2. Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh bell peppers and pineapple. Fresh produce enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  3. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the sauce based on your preference for sweetness. Taste as you go!
  4. Thickening Tips: If you want a thicker sauce, always mix cornstarch with a bit of water before adding it to your dish to avoid clumping.

Variations

Sweet and Sour Chicken with a Twist

You can easily add a twist to this recipe. Try using different fruits like mango or orange. These fruits give a fresh taste and a burst of color. You can also switch the bell peppers for snap peas or zucchini. This change gives the dish a crunchy texture. Adding cashews or almonds can give an extra crunch. You can even add a splash of orange juice to the sauce for more depth. These small changes can make your dish unique and exciting.

Vegetarian Alternatives

If you want a vegetarian option, use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Cube the tofu and press it to remove excess water. Then, marinate it just as you would the chicken. Cook it until golden brown, just like the chicken. You can also use seitan for a meat-like texture. For a seafood option, shrimp works well too. Just adjust the cooking time, as shrimp cooks fast. These alternatives keep the sweet and sour flavor while fitting different diets.

Serving Suggestions

To serve this dish, you can keep it simple. Serve over fluffy white rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option. For a fun twist, try serving it in lettuce cups. This makes a great appetizer or light meal. Pair it with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra veggies. For a festive touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top. This adds flavor and a pop of color to your plate.

Storage Info

How to Properly Store Leftovers

To keep your sweet and sour chicken fresh, follow these steps:

– Let the dish cool to room temperature.

– Place it in an airtight container.

– Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Proper storage prevents spoilage and keeps the flavors intact.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze sweet and sour chicken for later use:

– Allow the dish to cool completely.

– Transfer it to a freezer-safe container.

– Seal tightly and label with the date.

– Freeze for up to 3 months.

This way, you can enjoy this tasty meal anytime!

Reheating Tips

Reheating sweet and sour chicken is easy:

– For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

– Heat it in a skillet over medium heat.

– Stir occasionally until heated through.

You can also microwave it. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your meal just like it was fresh!

FAQs

Can I use other proteins?

Yes, you can use other proteins in this dish. Chicken is popular, but shrimp, pork, or tofu work well too. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the protein cooks through. For shrimp, cook until they turn pink. For pork, ensure it reaches the right temperature for safety.

How do I make Sweet and Sour Chicken spicier?

To add heat to your Sweet and Sour Chicken, use red pepper flakes or chili paste. Start with a small amount. You can also add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for more spice. Mix these into the sauce or sauté with the veggies for an extra kick.

What can I serve with Sweet and Sour Chicken?

Sweet and Sour Chicken pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it with noodles for a fun twist. Try adding a side of stir-fried vegetables for extra color and nutrition. A simple green salad can also balance the meal.

What makes this recipe better than takeout?

This recipe is better than takeout for several reasons. First, you control the ingredients and can use fresh produce. Second, it’s quick and easy to make at home. You’ll enjoy the flavors without the extra oil and sodium found in many takeout dishes. Lastly, it’s fun to cook and share with family and friends.

This blog taught you how to make sweet and sour chicken from scratch. You learned about key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips for success. I shared fun variations and storage tips too. Now, you have everything you need to impress at dinner. Enjoy your cooking and make it your own. Creating this dish can be fun and rewardin

For this tasty dish, you will need: - 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/2 cup bell peppers (red and green), chopped - 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned) - 1/2 cup onion, diced - 1/4 cup sugar - 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar - 3 tablespoons ketchup - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - Salt and pepper to taste These ingredients blend well to create a delightful flavor. The chicken gives protein. The bell peppers add crunch and color. Pineapple brings sweetness and tang. The sauce ties it all together with a perfect balance. For extra flair, consider adding: - Sesame seeds - Chopped green onions These garnishes enhance the look and taste of your dish. They add a nice crunch and a fresh note. To make this dish, gather: - A large skillet - A mixing bowl - A small bowl for the sauce - A spatula or wooden spoon - Measuring cups and spoons Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more fun. With these items, you can whip up Sweet and Sour Chicken in no time. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix the chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and cornstarch. This helps the chicken stay tender. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This step adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. This sauce is the heart of the dish, giving it that sweet and tangy flavor. Set it aside for later. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. It should turn golden brown on all sides. This step locks in the juices and flavor. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still crisp. This adds great texture and color to your dish. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together nicely. If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water. Add this mixture to the skillet while stirring continuously. This will thicken the sauce to your liking. It makes the dish richer and more satisfying. Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your sweet and sour chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. This adds a lovely finish and a pop of color. - Cooking Time Details: - Prep Time: 15 minutes - Total Time: 35 minutes - Servings: 4 You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Both options work great! For a different flavor, try using mango instead of pineapple. You can also use rice vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar. If you want less sugar, honey or agave syrup are good choices. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Fresh bell peppers and pineapple add a bright flavor. Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the flavors to soak in. When cooking, make sure your skillet is hot. This will brown the chicken nicely. Don't rush the simmering stage. Letting the sauce bubble will deepen the flavor. One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. It should be golden but not dry. Another error is not cutting veggies evenly. Uneven pieces cook at different rates. Also, be careful with the sauce. Adding too much cornstarch can make it too thick. Lastly, don’t skip garnishing. Sesame seeds and green onions make it look nice and add flavor. Pro Tips Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps to infuse it with flavor and tenderizes the meat. Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh bell peppers and pineapple. Fresh produce enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the sauce based on your preference for sweetness. Taste as you go! Thickening Tips: If you want a thicker sauce, always mix cornstarch with a bit of water before adding it to your dish to avoid clumping. {{image_2}} You can easily add a twist to this recipe. Try using different fruits like mango or orange. These fruits give a fresh taste and a burst of color. You can also switch the bell peppers for snap peas or zucchini. This change gives the dish a crunchy texture. Adding cashews or almonds can give an extra crunch. You can even add a splash of orange juice to the sauce for more depth. These small changes can make your dish unique and exciting. If you want a vegetarian option, use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Cube the tofu and press it to remove excess water. Then, marinate it just as you would the chicken. Cook it until golden brown, just like the chicken. You can also use seitan for a meat-like texture. For a seafood option, shrimp works well too. Just adjust the cooking time, as shrimp cooks fast. These alternatives keep the sweet and sour flavor while fitting different diets. To serve this dish, you can keep it simple. Serve over fluffy white rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option. For a fun twist, try serving it in lettuce cups. This makes a great appetizer or light meal. Pair it with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra veggies. For a festive touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top. This adds flavor and a pop of color to your plate. To keep your sweet and sour chicken fresh, follow these steps: - Let the dish cool to room temperature. - Place it in an airtight container. - Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Proper storage prevents spoilage and keeps the flavors intact. You can freeze sweet and sour chicken for later use: - Allow the dish to cool completely. - Transfer it to a freezer-safe container. - Seal tightly and label with the date. - Freeze for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy this tasty meal anytime! Reheating sweet and sour chicken is easy: - For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge. - Heat it in a skillet over medium heat. - Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your meal just like it was fresh! Yes, you can use other proteins in this dish. Chicken is popular, but shrimp, pork, or tofu work well too. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the protein cooks through. For shrimp, cook until they turn pink. For pork, ensure it reaches the right temperature for safety. To add heat to your Sweet and Sour Chicken, use red pepper flakes or chili paste. Start with a small amount. You can also add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for more spice. Mix these into the sauce or sauté with the veggies for an extra kick. Sweet and Sour Chicken pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it with noodles for a fun twist. Try adding a side of stir-fried vegetables for extra color and nutrition. A simple green salad can also balance the meal. This recipe is better than takeout for several reasons. First, you control the ingredients and can use fresh produce. Second, it's quick and easy to make at home. You’ll enjoy the flavors without the extra oil and sodium found in many takeout dishes. Lastly, it’s fun to cook and share with family and friends. This blog taught you how to make sweet and sour chicken from scratch. You learned about key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips for success. I shared fun variations and storage tips too. Now, you have everything you need to impress at dinner. Enjoy your cooking and make it your own. Creating this dish can be fun and rewarding.

Sweet and Sour Chicken

A delicious blend of sweet and tangy flavors with chicken, bell peppers, and pineapple.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 0.5 cup bell peppers (red and green), chopped
  • 0.5 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
  • 0.5 cup onion, diced
  • 0.25 cup sugar
  • 0.25 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish sesame seeds and green onions

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with a pinch of salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
  • In a small bowl, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely. Set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  • Remove from heat, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Notes

For a thicker sauce, add cornstarch mixed with water.
Keyword chicken, pineapple, stir-fry, sweet and sour

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