If you’re a fan of succulent, flavorful meat, look no further than pork belly braised in soy sauce. This dish is a true delight for the taste buds, with its savory and slightly sweet flavor profile.
Choosing the perfect pork belly
Start by selecting a high-quality piece of pork belly from your local butcher or grocery store. Look for a cut that has a good balance of lean meat and layers of fat, as this will result in a tender and juicy final product.
Preparing the pork belly
Before you start cooking, make sure to score the skin of the pork belly with a sharp knife. This will help the fat render out during the braising process, resulting in crispy, delicious crackling.
Marinating the pork belly
Create a simple marinade using soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a touch of Chinese five-spice powder. Place the pork belly in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring that it is well-coated. Cover the dish and let the pork belly marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Braising the pork belly
When you’re ready to cook, remove the pork belly from the marinade and place it in a deep pot or Dutch oven. Add enough water to cover the pork belly halfway, along with some additional soy sauce, sugar, and aromatics like star anise and cinnamon. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 2-3 hours, or until the pork belly is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Enjoying the finished dish
Once the pork belly is cooked to perfection, serve it hot with a side of steamed rice and some stir-fried vegetables. The rich, flavorful meat paired with the sticky, caramelized sauce is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
In conclusion, mastering the art of pork belly braised in soy sauce is a delicious and rewarding endeavor. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating a show-stopping dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.