Hebei cuisine, known for its rich flavors and unique cooking techniques, boasts a variety of traditional dishes, among which NineTurn Large Intestine stands out as a true delicacy. This dish, famous for its layers of flavor and intricate preparation, reflects the region’s culinary heritage while offering a delightful sensory experience. With its tantalizing taste and impressive presentation, it’s no surprise that NineTurn Large Intestine has earned a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts. Here’s a stepbystep guide to creating this iconic Hebei dish at home.
Ingredients
1 kg large intestine (pork)
100 g ginger (sliced)
100 g green onion (chopped)
56 cloves garlic (smashed)
2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns
1 tablespoon star anise
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice wine
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 tablespoon chili oil (optional)
Salt (to taste)
Water (for boiling)
A handful of fresh coriander (for garnishing)
StepbyStep Preparation
Step 1: Clean the Intestine
1. Rinse Thoroughly: Start by rinsing the large intestine under cold running water to remove any debris. Rub salt over the surface to help cleanse it further. This process should take about 1015 minutes.
2. Soak: In a bowl, fill it with water and add some vinegar. Soak the intestines for at least an hour to eliminate any unpleasant odors. Rinse once more after soaking.
Step 2: Boil the Intestine
1. Prepare a Boiling Pot: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add sliced ginger, chopped green onion, and a bit of salt to enhance the flavor during boiling.
2. Add the Intestinal Tract: Once the water is boiling, add the cleaned large intestine. Boil for about 1015 minutes. This will help further clean and tenderize the intestines.
3. Shock in Cold Water: After boiling, transfer the intestines to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool before cutting.
Step 3: Slice the Intestine
1. Cut into Sections: Once cooled, carefully cut the large intestine into 57 cm pieces. Make sure the pieces are uniform for even cooking.
2. Twist and Fold: For the signature nineturn effect, take each piece and twist it in a spiral motion, then fold it over itself. This swirling technique is key to creating the unique texture of the dish, as it allows for better absorption of flavors.
Step 4: Fry the Intestine
1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat some cooking oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add smashed garlic, Sichuan peppercorns, and star anise to the hot oil, cooking until fragrant (about 12 minutes).
3. Add the Twisted Intestines: Carefully add the twisted pieces of large intestine to the pan. Stirfry for around 57 minutes until they start to brown.
Step 5: Flavor It Up
1. Season: Pour in the soy sauce, rice wine, and vinegar. Stir well to coat the intestines evenly. Let cook for another 45 minutes, allowing the sauces to reduce slightly.
2. Include Chili Oil: If you’re up for a spicy kick, drizzle a tablespoon of chili oil over the intestines while cooking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
1. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Once the intestines are cooked through and wellcoated with sauce, turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped coriander over the top.
2. Plate: Serve the NineTurn Large Intestine on a large platter, showcasing the beautifully twisted pieces, and enjoy with steamed rice or as a part of a larger spread.
A Taste of Hebei Culture
NineTurn Large Intestine is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of Hebei’s culinary traditions. The intricate preparation and distinct flavors exemplify the region’s passion for good food and hearty dishes. By mastering this recipe, you can bring a slice of Hebei culture into your kitchen, creating an unforgettable dining experience for family and friends. Enjoy the process, and relish in the flavors of Hebei!