Braised pork belly is a delicious and indulgent dish that is loved by many. When prepared correctly, the pork belly becomes tender and packed with flavor. One secret ingredient that can take your braised pork belly to the next level is Coke.
Tenderizing the meat
To start, you will need a piece of pork belly with skin on. In a large pot, sear the pork belly on all sides until it is golden brown. This will help to seal in the juices and keep the pork belly tender while it braises.
Adding flavor with Coke
Once the pork belly is seared, add in a can of Coke to the pot. The sweetness and caramelization from the Coke will add a depth of flavor to the dish that is unmatched. You can also add in some aromatics like garlic, ginger, and star anise for an extra layer of flavor.
Slow cooking for maximum tenderness
Cover the pot with a lid and let the pork belly braise on low heat for at least 2-3 hours. The slow cooking process will allow the meat to become tender and juicy, while also infusing it with the flavors of the Coke and aromatics.
Crisping up the skin
After the pork belly has finished braising, remove it from the pot and place it on a baking sheet. Turn up the heat in the oven to broil and crisp up the skin of the pork belly for a few minutes. This will add a delicious crunch to the dish and elevate the overall texture.
Serve and enjoy
Once the pork belly is crispy and golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the braised pork belly with steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy the tender and flavorful meat that has been cooked to perfection with the secret ingredient of Coke.