1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced (about 3 cups sliced)
1 teaspoon salt and water, for cooking the carrots
1 green bell pepper, seeded and cut in 1/2-inch to 1-inch squares
1 can (8 ounces) pineapple chunks in juice
5 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons soy sauce, low sodium
1/2 teaspoon chili garlic paste, or to taste optional
finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish, optional
Instructions
Put the carrots in a saucepan and cover with water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until just tender. Add the bell pepper and cook, covered, for 3 minutes longer. Drain.
Drain the pineapple, reserving the juice. Add water to the juice to make 1/3 cup.
In a saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir in the pineapple juice mixture, the vinegar, and soy sauce, along with the chili garlic paste, if using. Cook over medium heat until thickened and bubbly, stirring frequently.
Add the drained carrots, peppers, and the pineapple chunks. Heat through and transfer to a serving dish.