Cantonese braised pork belly, also known as “dong po rou,” is a popular Chinese dish that is rich in flavor and tender in texture. Mastering this dish requires patience and attention to detail, but with a step-by-step guide, you can create a delicious and authentic Cantonese braised pork belly at home.
1. Choose the right cut of pork belly
Start by selecting a high-quality piece of pork belly with a good balance of meat and fat. Look for a piece that is evenly shaped and has a thick layer of fat. This will ensure that your pork belly is juicy and succulent after braising.
2. Prepare the pork belly
Wash the pork belly thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut the pork belly into large chunks, making sure to leave the skin on. Score the skin with a sharp knife to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat during braising.
3. Marinate the pork belly
In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, rice wine, ginger, and garlic. Add the pork belly pieces to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
4. Braise the pork belly
In a large pot, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork belly pieces and sear them until they are browned on all sides. This will help to develop a rich flavor in the dish. Add water, soy sauce, rock sugar, and star anise to the pot, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it braise on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the pork belly is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve the braised pork belly
Once the pork belly is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the pork belly into thick pieces and arrange them on a serving platter. Pour the braising sauce over the pork belly and garnish with green onions or cilantro. Serve your Cantonese braised pork belly with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying and delicious meal.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can master the art of Cantonese braised pork belly and impress your friends and family with a flavorful and authentic Chinese dish. Enjoy!