Tianjin, the vibrant coastal city of China, boasts a diverse culinary scene that offers rich flavors and unique dishes. One beloved dish that encapsulates the essence of Tianjin cuisine is Braised Shredded Pork with Fish Sauce. This savory dish combines tender, shredded pork with a delightful umami richness, making it a musttry for food enthusiasts. Here’s a neat and concise guide to preparing this tantalizing dish.
Ingredients
300g pork belly
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, minced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
Spring onions (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork:
Choose a cut of pork belly for its higher fat content, which will render succulent flavors.
Slice the pork belly into thin shreds, approximately 23 cm wide.
2. Marinate the Pork:
In a bowl, mix the shredded pork with soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and ginger.
Allow the pork to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the flavor and tenderness.
3. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Once hot, add the marinated pork without the marinade, cooking for about 57 minutes until edges turn crispy and lightly golden.
4. Add the Marinade:
Pour the leftover marinade and water into the pan with the pork.
Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Braised Cooking:
Cover the pan and reduce heat to low. Let it braise for about 2025 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the pork to soak up the sauce.
6. Final Touches:
After braising, remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to reduce the sauce to a thicker consistency.
Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
7. Serve:
Once thickened, remove from heat. Garnish with finely chopped spring onions for a fresh touch.
Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Braised Shredded Pork with Fish Sauce is a delightful dish that showcases the profound flavors characteristic of Tianjin cuisine. The balanced combination of salty and sweet, along with the tender texture of the pork, makes it an enjoyable choice for any dinner table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Tianjin right in your home!