Soy sauce braised pork belly is a classic dish in Asian cuisine that is known for its savory and succulent flavors. If you want to learn how to make the perfect soy sauce braised pork belly, follow these simple steps.
Choosing the right pork belly
Start by selecting a piece of pork belly with a good balance of lean meat and fat. Look for a well-marbled piece with a thick layer of fat on top.
Preparing the pork belly
Score the skin of the pork belly with a sharp knife to help the marinade penetrate the meat. Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces for easier cooking and serving.
Marinating the pork belly
In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder. Add the pork belly pieces to the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
Braising the pork belly
Heat a pan over medium heat and add the marinated pork belly pieces. Cook until the meat is browned on all sides. Add water or chicken broth to cover the pork belly halfway.
Simmering the pork belly
Cover the pan and let the pork belly simmer on low heat for about 1-2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finishing touches
Once the pork belly is cooked, turn up the heat to caramelize the sauce and create a glaze on the meat. Serve the soy sauce braised pork belly hot with steamed rice and vegetables.
Enjoy the savory and succulent flavors of your homemade soy sauce braised pork belly!