Tangy and Sweet Dongpo Pork: Slow-Filled with Flavor

Introduction:

Dongpo Pork, a classic Chinese dish named after the famous Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo, is renowned for its tender meat and rich flavor. This dish has been cherished by food enthusiasts for centuries and is still a favorite in modern kitchens. The key to achieving the perfect Dongpo Pork lies in the slow cooking process that allows the flavors to penetrate every fiber of the pork belly. In this recipe, we will explore how to create a tangy and sweet version of Dongpo Pork, ensuring it’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Ingredients:

500 grams pork belly, skin on
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon five-spice powder
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped
1 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Water as needed

Preparation:

Before starting the cooking process, ensure that all your ingredients are prepared and at hand. Begin by washing the pork belly thoroughly under cold running water. Pat it dry with paper towels and score the skin side lightly in a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. This scoring helps the skin crisp up during cooking.

Next, prepare a marinade by mixing soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, rice wine vinegar, sugar, salt, five-spice powder, minced garlic, and chopped ginger in a bowl. Make sure to combine these ingredients well so that they blend into a smooth paste. Set aside half of this mixture for later use.

Heat a wok or large pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, place the pork belly skin-side down into the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until the skin starts to become golden brown and crispy. Flip the pork belly and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.

While the pork belly cools, prepare your cooking vessel. You can use a deep pot or a slow cooker. If you’re using a slow cooker, place the seared pork belly inside along with the remaining marinade, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Pour enough water to cover the pork belly halfway. If using a pot, bring the marinade and water to a boil before adding the pork belly and spices.

Cooking Process:

For those using a slow cooker, set it to low and let it cook for approximately 6 hours or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart. For those using a pot, transfer everything to the pot and bring it to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for around 2 hours or until the pork is fork-tender.

During the cooking time, occasionally check the liquid level and add more water if necessary. Ensure that the pork remains submerged throughout the cooking process. Towards the end of cooking, remove the pork belly from the liquid and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.

Once rested, slice the pork belly into thin pieces. Arrange them neatly on a serving platter. To enhance the presentation, drizzle some of the cooking liquid over the slices and garnish with fresh cilantro or spring onions.

Serving Suggestions:

This tangy and sweet Dongpo Pork pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even as a topping for buns. It can also be enjoyed as part of a larger meal alongside vegetables such as stir-fried greens or pickled cucumbers. The richness of the pork complements the lightness of these accompaniments beautifully.

Nutritional Information:

Each serving of this dish provides approximately 250 calories, with most of the calories coming from the high-fat content of the pork belly. However, the dish is also rich in protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and iron. It’s important to note that while Dongpo Pork is indulgent, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat content.

Conclusion:

Making Tangy and Sweet Dongpo Pork requires patience and attention to detail, but the result is well worth the effort. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the tender texture of the pork, makes this dish a true culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe will surely impress both novice and experienced cooks alike.