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Return the seared pork belly to the pot and stir to combine with the aromatics. Add the soy sauces (light and dark), rice wine, sugar, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Stir everything together so the pork is coated with the sauces and spices.
5. Simmer the Pork Belly
Pour in enough water or chicken stock to just cover the pork belly. Bring the liquid to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the pork belly braise for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The long, slow cooking process will break down the collagen in the pork belly, resulting in tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.
6. Adjust the Sauce and Thicken (Optional)
After the braising time, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If the sauce is too salty, add a little more sugar to balance the flavors. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, and then stir it into the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until it thickens to your liking.
7. Serve
Once the pork belly is tender and the sauce has reduced to a rich, glossy consistency, it’s time to serve! Garnish with additional chopped spring onions, if desired. Serve the braised pork belly with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables to complete the meal.
Tips for Perfect Chinese Braised Pork Belly
- Slow Cooking is Key: Braising the pork belly slowly allows the fat to render, making the meat incredibly tender and flavorful. Don’t rush the process!
- Balance the Sweet and Savory: The key to a great braised pork belly is balancing the sweetness of the sugar with the savory depth of the soy sauce. Taste the sauce as you go, adjusting the sweetness or saltiness to your liking.
- Use Rock Sugar for Authenticity: If you can, use rock sugar for a more authentic taste. It dissolves more easily and adds a unique sweetness compared to regular granulated sugar.
- Make it Ahead: Braised pork belly actually tastes even better the next day. If you have leftovers, let the dish cool and store it in the fridge. The flavors will meld together overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated.
Serving Suggestions
Chinese Braised Pork Belly is a rich, hearty dish that pairs well with simple sides to balance out the intense flavors:
- Steamed Rice: The tender pork and savory sauce is perfect over a bowl of fluffy steamed rice.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Fresh, lightly stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, Chinese broccoli, or snow peas can add a nice, crisp contrast to the richness of the pork.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled vegetables, such as pickled mustard greens or radishes, provide a tangy contrast that helps cut through the richness of the braised pork.
Why This Dish Is a Winner
Chinese Braised Pork Belly is one of those dishes that has a complex, rich flavor profile, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. It’s the perfect dish for anyone looking to explore Chinese cuisine and indulge in a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth meal. The balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors makes it a true standout.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family dinner, or just to treat yourself, Chinese Braised Pork Belly is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Enjoy this tender, flavorful dish that’s brimming with authenticity, and share it with your loved ones for an unforgettable meal. Happy cooking!
