Braised Pork Belly is a classic dish that delivers incredible flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The rich, savory taste of the pork is enhanced by the aromatic braising liquid, which infuses every bite with depth and complexity. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
The key to achieving the perfect Braised Pork Belly lies in the slow simmering process, which allows the meat to become tender and absorb all the wonderful flavors from the soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, and other ingredients. The result is a dish that is both comforting and luxurious, with a beautifully caramelized exterior and succulent interior. Serve it with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 800g pork belly
- 1200ml water
- 120ml soy sauce
- 100g sugar
- 50g oyster sauce
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 pieces of ginger, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
Directions:
Preheat and Sear:
- Preheat a frying pan over high heat.
- Grill all four sides of the pork belly to sear and brown it.
Prepare the Braising Liquid:
- In a large pot, add 1200ml water, 120ml soy sauce, 100g sugar, 50g oyster sauce, chopped green onion, chopped half onion, 2 bay leaves, and sliced ginger.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add and Boil the Pork Belly:
- Add the seared pork belly to the boiling liquid.
- Boil over high heat for 10 minutes.
Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to medium, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 40 minutes.
- After 40 minutes, reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for an additional 10 to 20 minutes, turning the pork belly occasionally.
Rest the Pork Belly:
- Remove the pork belly from the pot and let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
Serve:
- Slice the pork belly and serve with some of the braising liquid drizzled over the top.
- Enjoy your melt-in-your-mouth Braised Pork Belly!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Kcal: 600 kcal (per serving) | Servings: 4 servings
Tips for Making the Best Braised Pork Belly
- Sear the Meat Well: Searing the pork belly on all sides before braising helps to lock in the juices and add depth of flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, green onions, and high-quality soy sauce and oyster sauce will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the braising liquid before adding the pork belly and adjust the seasoning if necessary to suit your preference.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the pork belly to simmer slowly to ensure it becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the braising liquid.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the pork belly rest after cooking helps to redistribute the juices and makes it easier to slice.
Additional Tips for a Great Outcome
- Consistent Heat: Maintain a consistent simmer during cooking to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
- Use a Heavy Pot: A heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid will help retain moisture and heat during the simmering process.
- Deglaze the Pan: After searing the pork belly, deglaze the pan with a bit of water or broth to capture all the flavorful browned bits before adding the braising liquid.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pork belly in its braising liquid for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1500mg
Possible Questions About This Recipe
- Can I use another cut of pork?
- Pork shoulder or pork butt can be used as an alternative to pork belly.
- Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
- Yes, after searing the pork belly, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- What can I serve with braised pork belly?
- Serve with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Can I add other vegetables to the braise?
- Yes, you can add carrots, daikon radish, or mushrooms to the braising liquid for added flavor and nutrition.
- How do I make the pork belly crispier?
- After braising, you can broil the pork belly in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the skin.
Conclusion
Braised Pork Belly is a dish that combines rich flavors and tender textures, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal. With its savory braising liquid and melt-in-your-mouth meat, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s bound to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying taste.