Fujian-Style Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce
Introduction:
Fujian-style braised pork belly in soy sauce is a classic dish from the Fujian province of China. This dish is known for its rich flavor and tender texture, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. The dish is prepared using simple ingredients but requires careful attention to detail to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to prepare this delectable dish at home.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams of pork belly
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing rice wine
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of cooking oil
- 1 cup of water
- Optional: green onions for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Belly
The first step in preparing this dish is to select a high-quality piece of pork belly. Look for one that has a good layer of fat and skin. Once you have your pork belly, rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. You can also score the skin side of the pork belly in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. This helps the skin crisp up during cooking.
Step 2: Marinating the Pork Belly
In a large bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing rice wine, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder. Add the pork belly to the marinade and ensure that it is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for better flavor absorption.
Step 3: Cooking the Pork Belly
Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant. Remove the pork belly from the marinade and add it to the pot. Cook the pork belly on all sides until it is browned. This process helps lock in the flavors and adds a nice color to the dish.
Add the remaining soy sauce, Shaoxing rice wine, and water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the pork belly simmer gently for about 1 hour or until it is tender and easily pierced with a fork. During this time, you may need to turn the pork belly occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Finishing the Dish
Once the pork belly is tender, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Strain the cooking liquid into a clean pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the liquid by half, which will thicken the sauce and intensify the flavors. Pour the thickened sauce back over the pork belly.
If you want the skin to be extra crispy, you can place the pork belly under a preheated broiler for a few minutes until the skin is golden and crackling. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
Fujian-style braised pork belly in soy sauce pairs well with steamed rice or noodles. It can also be served as part of a larger meal alongside other dishes such as stir-fried vegetables or tofu. The rich, savory flavors of the pork belly complement these accompaniments beautifully.
Nutritional Information:
One serving of this dish (approximately 100 grams) contains approximately 250 calories, 20 grams of protein, and 15 grams of fat. It is also a good source of essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, zinc, and iron.
Conclusion:
Fujian-style braised pork belly in soy sauce is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. With its tender texture and rich flavor, it is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire of recipes. Follow the steps outlined above, and you will be able to prepare this dish with ease. Enjoy!
