Cream Soda–Glazed Pork Bites (Print)

Tender pork bites caramelized in cream soda glaze, ready in 20 minutes. Sweet, savory, and perfect for any occasion.

# Ingredients:

→ Pork

01 - 1 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 1/2 tsp salt
03 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
04 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder

→ Glaze

05 - 3/4 cup cream soda (not diet)
06 - 2 tbsp soy sauce
07 - 2 tbsp brown sugar
08 - 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
09 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
10 - 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water

→ For Cooking

11 - 1 tbsp vegetable oil

→ Garnish

12 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or scallions
13 - 1 tsp sesame seeds

# Instructions:

01 - Pat the pork cubes dry with paper towels. Season all sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together cream soda, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Set aside.
03 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork in a single layer; sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
04 - Transfer the seared pork to a plate.
05 - Pour the cream soda mixture into the skillet. Bring to a boil and cook for 2–3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
06 - Stir in the cornstarch slurry; simmer 1–2 minutes until the glaze thickens and is glossy.
07 - Return the pork bites to the pan. Toss to coat in the glaze and warm through for 1 minute.
08 - Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chives or scallions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.

# Pro Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple pantry ingredients with one surprise element
  • Perfect as both an impressive appetizer or quick weeknight dinner
  • Versatile glaze works beautifully on other proteins too
02 -
  • Contains only 265 calories per serving making it a protein rich but moderate calorie option
  • Perfect make ahead dish the glaze actually intensifies in flavor when reheated
  • Extremely versatile serve as appetizer over rice or alongside vegetables