Red Braised Pork
Red Braised Pork is a classic Chinese dish known for its rich flavors and tender meat, making it a perfect comfort food for family dinners or special occasions.
Prep
20 minutes
Cook
2 hours
Level
Medium
Serves
4
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the pork belly cubes and sauté until they are browned on all sides.
- 2
Add the ginger, garlic, star anise, and cinnamon stick to the pot, stirring for about a minute to release their aromas.
- 3
Pour in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar, stirring well to coat the pork evenly with the sauces and sugar.
- 4
Add the water and green onion to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, letting it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the pork is tender.
- 5
Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you want a richer flavor, you can simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Tips
Using fresh pork belly will yield the best texture and flavor.
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a bit more sugar during cooking.
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Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months.
Substitutions
- If you don't have rice wine, you can use dry sherry or omit it entirely.
- For a healthier option, you can substitute pork belly with lean pork shoulder.
What to Serve With
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Stir-fried greens
- Pickled vegetables
Common Mistakes
- Not browning the meat properly can lead to less flavor.
- Skipping the simmering step might result in tougher meat and a bland dish.
Recipe FAQ
What type of pork should I use for this dish?
Pork belly is the traditional choice for Red Braised Pork due to its balance of fat and meat, providing a rich flavor and tender texture.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, Red Braised Pork can be made ahead of time. The flavors will deepen after sitting, so it’s great for meal prep.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
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