🍽️ Savory, sticky, and oh-so-tender, this Chinese Pork Belly is slow-cooked to perfection and glazed in a delicious, sweet, and spicy sauce. A mouthwatering dinner that’s sure to impress!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Sticky Chinese Pork Belly recipe is a culinary delight that brings the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen. The slow-cooked pork belly melts in your mouth, while the glaze adds a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, this dish is sure to be a hit. The combination of tender meat and a sticky, flavorful sauce makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s relatively simple to prepare, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Introduction:
Pork belly is a cut of meat that has gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Its rich flavor and tender texture make it a favorite in many cuisines around the world. In this recipe, we take pork belly to new heights by slow-cooking it in a fragrant broth and then glazing it in a sticky sauce that’s both sweet and spicy. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, with its glossy finish and vibrant toppings. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
Slow Cooked Pork Belly:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) rindless pork belly slices (chopped in half)
- 1 litre (4 1/4 cups) hot chicken stock
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger (peeled and minced)
- 3 cloves garlic (peeled and roughly chopped)
- 1 tbsp rice wine
- 1 tbsp caster sugar
Glaze:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger (peeled and minced)
- 1 red chilli (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tsp lemongrass paste
To Serve:
- Chopped spring onions
- Chopped red chilli
Preparation:
Step 1:
In a heavy-based pan, combine the pork belly slices, hot chicken stock, minced ginger, chopped garlic, rice wine, and caster sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
Step 2:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for 2 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the pork to become incredibly tender.
Step 3:
After 2 hours, carefully remove the pork from the pan. Pat the slices dry with kitchen towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear later on. If desired, reserve the cooking liquid for future use, as it can be a flavorful base for soups or sauces.
Step 4:
In a mixing bowl, prepare the glaze by combining the vegetable oil, a pinch of salt and pepper, minced ginger, chopped red chilli, honey, brown sugar, dark soy sauce, and lemongrass paste. Stir until well combined.
Step 5:
Heat the remaining oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the pork belly pieces, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Fry until the pork is golden and crispy on the outside, about 5-7 minutes. Then, pour the prepared glaze over the pork and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the pork is coated and the glaze becomes dark and sticky.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your sticky Chinese pork belly over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or alongside steamed bok choy for a complete meal. Garnish with freshly chopped spring onions and red chilli for an extra pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the pork.
Tips:
- Choosing Pork Belly: Look for pork belly with a good balance of meat and fat. This will ensure a tender result with great flavor.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chilli in the glaze or omit it entirely.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pork belly in advance and reheat it in the glaze before serving. This allows the flavors to deepen and develop even more.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time:
2 hours 25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving (varies based on portion size)
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
This Sticky Chinese Pork Belly recipe is a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. The slow-cooking process ensures that the pork is incredibly tender, while the sticky glaze adds a delightful finish that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine right at home!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
A1: While pork belly is ideal for its rich flavor and texture, you can substitute it with pork shoulder. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, as shoulder may take longer to become tender.
Q2: Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?
A2: Yes! You can create a vegetarian version using firm tofu or seitan. Marinate them in the same glaze and cook until crispy for a delicious plant-based option.
Q3: How can I store leftovers?
A3: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze the sticky pork belly?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork belly in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q5: What can I serve with sticky Chinese pork belly?
A5: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light cucumber salad to balance the richness of the pork. Enjoy!