When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich and indulgent flavors of authentic braised pork belly. This traditional Chinese dish, known as “红烧肉” (hóngshāo ròu) or red-cooked pork, is a staple in many households and restaurants across China. The tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly is braised in a fragrant and savory sauce until it is infused with flavor and literally falls apart at the touch of a fork.

The History of Red-Cooked Pork

Red-cooked pork has a long and storied history in Chinese cuisine. The dish dates back to the Qing Dynasty, where it was enjoyed by emperors and nobility as a delicacy. Over the years, red-cooked pork has become a beloved comfort food enjoyed by people of all walks of life.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork belly, skin on
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine
• 1/4 cup rock sugar or brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 slices ginger
• 2 star anise
• 2 dried red chilies
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the pork belly. Cut the pork belly into 1-inch thick slices, then blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large wok or deep saucepan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, star anise, dried red chilies, and cinnamon stick. Stir fry until fragrant.
3. Add the pork belly slices to the wok and sear until browned on all sides.
4. Pour in the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, rock sugar, and dark soy sauce. Stir to coat the pork belly in the sauce.
5. Add water to the wok until the pork belly is just covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
6. Cover and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork belly is tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Adjust seasoning to taste, then serve hot with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables.

Enjoy the rich, flavorful, and aromatic dish of authentic braised pork belly, red-cooked to perfection. This traditional Chinese recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite.