Braised pork belly is a rich, flavorful dish where the pork is slowly cooked until tender in a savory sauce. The result is melt-in-your-mouth meat with a delicious caramelized exterior. This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want a comforting, hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed and cut into 1-inch thick pieces
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup rice wine (or dry sherry)
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce (optional, for deeper color)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 star anise (optional, for a warm, aromatic flavor)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sear the Pork Belly:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork belly pieces, skin-side down first, and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Add the Liquids and Seasonings:
- Stir in the soy sauce, rice wine, dark soy sauce (if using), and brown sugar. Let the sauce come to a simmer and stir to dissolve the sugar.
- Return the pork belly to the pot, and add enough water or chicken broth to just cover the pork. Drop in the star anise and cinnamon stick (if using).
- Simmer the Pork:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and braise the pork for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Reduce the Sauce:
- Once the pork is tender, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Let the sauce simmer and reduce for about 10-15 minutes until thickened and glossy.
- Serve:
- Garnish the braised pork belly with sliced green onions and serve hot over steamed rice or alongside sautéed vegetables.
This braised pork belly is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors, making it a rich and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!
