Jiangsu cuisine, often celebrated for its subtle flavors, artistic presentation, and fresh ingredients, boasts a diverse array of dishes, one of which stands out as a hallmark of the region’s culinary heritage: Crystal Braised Pork (also known as “Dongpo Pork”). This dish is not just a meal; it is a celebration of Jiangsu’s intricate cooking techniques and rich flavors that have delighted palates for centuries. If you’ve ever wondered about the tantalizing flavors of Jiangsu cuisine, you’re in luck! With the right ingredients and techniques, you can replicate this indulgent dish in your own kitchen.
What is Crystal Braised Pork?
Crystal Braised Pork is a signature dish from Jiangsu province and is often associated with the legendary Song dynasty poet Su Dongpo (hence the name). The dish features chunks of pork belly that are braised until tender and glistening with a rich glaze, resembling crystal, hence the name. The flavors are a delightful blend of sweet and savory, enhanced with soy sauce, sugar, ginger, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate this exquisite dish at home, gather the following ingredients:
500g pork belly (with skin on)
3 tablespoons light soy sauce
2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
2 tablespoons rock sugar or brown sugar
34 slices of fresh ginger
23 green onions
12 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine)
1 star anise
Water
Salt to taste
Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Belly: Start by cutting the pork belly into large chunks, approximately 2 inches in size. Blanch these pieces in boiling water for 510 minutes to remove impurities, then drain and rinse.
2. Browning the Meat: In a heavybottomed pot, add a bit of oil and heat until shimmering. Add the rock sugar and allow it to caramelize until it’s golden brown. Carefully add the pork belly pieces to the pot and sear them on all sides until they develop a light brown color.
3. Flavoring the Dish: Add the sliced ginger, green onions (knot them for easy removal later), Shaoxing wine, light and dark soy sauce, and star anise to the pot. Stir everything together to ensure the pork is well coated in the sauces.
4. Braised with Care: Pour enough water into the pot to cover the pork belly completely. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Monitor the pot occasionally, adding more water if necessary, to maintain liquid covering the meat.
5. Final Touches: Once the pork is tender, remove the lid and increase the heat. Reduce the sauce until it thickens and clings to the meat. Be careful not to burn it, as the sugars can caramelize quickly.
6. Serving: Transfer the pork to a serving plate, drizzle with some of the thickened sauce, and garnish with chopped green onions. This dish is best served warm with a side of steamed rice or on a bed of bok choy.
Tips for Success
Quality Ingredients: Use highquality pork belly for the best texture and flavor. Meat with a good balance of fat ensures a more succulent end result.
Patience is Key: Low and slow cooking yields the best results. Don’t rush the braising process, as tenderness is what makes this dish shine.
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sugar and soy sauce levels based on your taste preferences. Some may prefer it sweeter, while others might like a saltier profile.
Conclusion
Making Crystal Braised Pork at home might seem daunting, but with patience and the right approach, you can savor this delightful Jiangsu delicacy right in your kitchen. The combination of tender meat and rich sauce creates an unforgettable dish that reflects the heart and soul of Jiangsu cuisine. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion or a simple family dinner, your efforts will surely be rewarded with a meal that tells a beautiful story of tradition and culinary craftsmanship. Dive into the world of Chinese cooking and bring a piece of Jiangsu to your table!