Braised pork belly

Method

1. 01

   Step 1

   Cut the pork belly into chunks, put it in a pot of cold water, add knotted scallions and ginger slices, blanch and set aside.

   

2. 02

   Step 2

   Prepare bay leaves, cinnamon, star anise, nutmeg, and hawthorn. Only a small amount of cinnamon is needed; too much will make the flavor unpleasant.

   

3. 03

   Step 3

   Heat the pan slightly and fry the meat pieces until the oil is rendered.

   

4. 04

   Step 4

   Remove from heat and set aside.

   

5. 05

   Step 5

   In a separate pan, heat oil and add 2 tablespoons of sugar to caramelize. Stir constantly over low heat.

   

6. 06

   Step 6

   Stir-fry the meat chunks until they turn caramel color.

   

7. 07

   Step 7

   Stir-fry until the sugar caramelizes evenly and coats the meat pieces, then add the spices and stir-fry.

   

8. 08

   Step 8

   Pour 2 tablespoons of cooking wine along the side of the pot to allow it to evaporate and remove the fishy smell.

   

9. 09

   Step 9

   Add 3 times the amount of water to the meat, cover and simmer over medium heat for 40 minutes.

   

10. 10

    Step 10

    After 40 minutes, open the lid and add an appropriate amount of salt.

    

11. 11

    Step 11

    Reduce the sauce over high heat and serve.