Shao Rou Fan, or crispy and juicy pork belly rice, is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine that combines tender and succulent pork belly with crispy skin and fragrant rice. Here is the ultimate guide to making this delicious dish at home.
Choosing the right cut of meat
The key to a good Shao Rou Fan is choosing the right cut of pork belly. Look for a piece with a good balance of lean meat and fat, as this will ensure that the meat stays juicy and tender while the skin crisps up during cooking.
Preparing the pork belly
To prepare the pork belly, score the skin with a sharp knife in a criss-cross pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat. This will help the skin crisp up during cooking and allow the flavor to penetrate the meat.
Marinating the meat
Marinate the pork belly with a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, garlic, and five-spice powder. This will infuse the meat with flavor and help tenderize it, making it juicy and delicious.
Cooking the pork belly
To cook the pork belly, start by searing it in a hot pan to brown the skin and render out some of the fat. Then, transfer it to a roasting pan and roast in the oven until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. This will result in a perfect combination of crispy skin and juicy meat.
Making the rice
While the pork belly is cooking, prepare the rice by cooking it in a mixture of chicken broth, soy sauce, and aromatics like ginger and green onions. This will infuse the rice with flavor and make it the perfect base for the pork belly.
Assembling the dish
To assemble the Shao Rou Fan, slice the pork belly into thin strips and serve it over a bed of fragrant rice. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions, and serve with a side of steamed vegetables or pickles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoying the ultimate Shao Rou Fan experience
Now that you have mastered the art of making Shao Rou Fan at home, sit back, relax, and savor every crispy, juicy bite of this delicious dish. The combination of tender pork belly, crispy skin, and fragrant rice is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So go ahead, treat yourself to the ultimate Shao Rou Fan experience and enjoy a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine in the comfort of your own home.