Red Braised Pork Belly, also known as Hong Shao Rou in Mandarin, is a classic Chinese dish that originated in the Jiangsu province of China. This delicious and flavorful dish is made by slowly cooking pork belly in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings until the meat is tender and infused with the rich, savory flavors of the sauce.
The History of Red Braised Pork Belly
Red Braised Pork Belly has a long and fascinating history in Chinese cuisine. It is said to have originated in the Jiangsu province of China, where it was a favorite dish of the wealthy and powerful. According to legend, the dish was first created by a scholar who was exiled to the countryside during the Tang dynasty. With limited ingredients and resources, the scholar experimented with different seasonings and techniques to create a dish that was both satisfying and flavorful.
Over time, Red Braised Pork Belly became a popular dish throughout China and beyond. Today, it is considered one of the quintessential dishes of Chinese cuisine, loved for its rich, complex flavors and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How to Make Red Braised Pork Belly
While Red Braised Pork Belly may seem daunting to make at first, it is actually quite simple with the right recipe and technique. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious dish:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. pork belly
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup Shaoxing wine
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 star anise
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 dried chili peppers
- 3 cups water
- 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Cut the pork belly into 2-inch cubes and set aside.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic, star anise, cinnamon sticks, and dried chili peppers, and stir until fragrant.
- Add the pork belly to the pot and stir until browned on all sides.
- Add the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, brown sugar, and water to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the Red Braised Pork Belly hot with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables.
Variations and Tips
While the classic recipe for Red Braised Pork Belly is delicious on its own, there are many variations and tips you can use to customize the dish to your liking. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add aromatics such as ginger, green onions, or lemongrass for extra flavor.
- Use dark soy sauce for a richer color and flavor.
- Substitute honey or maple syrup for the brown sugar for a different type of sweetness.
- Finish the dish with a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice to balance the flavors.
- For a crispy texture, pan-fry the pork belly before adding it to the sauce.
Conclusion
Red Braised Pork Belly is a classic Chinese dish that has stood the test of time for good reason. Its rich, complex flavors and tender texture make it a favorite of foodies and home cooks alike. With the right recipe and technique, anyone can make this delicious dish at home and enjoy the taste of authentic Chinese cuisine. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
