If you want to impress your friends and family with a delicious and tender Chinese pork braised dish, look no further. Mastering the art of Chinese pork braised is easier than you think.
Choosing the right cut of pork
Start by choosing the right cut of pork for braising. Pork belly or shoulder are popular choices because they contain a good amount of fat, which helps keep the meat moist and tender during the cooking process.
Seasoning the meat
Season the pork with a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and Chinese five-spice powder. Allow the meat to marinate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Browning the meat
Heat a large pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and brown the pork on all sides. This step helps develop flavor and gives the meat a nice caramelized crust.
Adding liquid
After browning the meat, add in a mixture of chicken broth, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar. This liquid will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor as it simmers.
Cooking low and slow
Simmer the pork on low heat for at least 2 hours, until the meat is tender and falling apart. The longer you cook the pork, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
Adding vegetables
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add in your favorite vegetables such as bok choy, carrots, or mushrooms. This will not only add color and texture to the dish but also infuse the vegetables with the delicious braising liquid.
Enjoying the dish
Once the pork is tender and the vegetables are cooked, it’s time to serve the dish. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro for a fresh and vibrant finish.
With these simple steps, you can master the art of Chinese pork braised and impress your guests with a delicious and tender dish that will have them coming back for more. So go ahead, give it a try and enjoy the flavors of Chinese cuisine in the comfort of your own home.