Red-Cooked Pork is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its rich flavor and beautiful color that comes from the slow simmering process in a blend of soy sauce, sugar, and spices. This dish, originating from the Jiangsu province, is often a staple in family gatherings, celebrating its comforting taste and the memories that come with it. The tenderness of the pork combined with the umami flavors creates an irresistible meal that many can’t resist.
In this article, you’ll discover the best Red-Cooked Pork recipe, along with tips for variations, and what makes this dish a must-try. You’ll learn how to make Red-Cooked Pork at home, explore its unique flavor profile, and even get answers to your most pressing questions about this delightful dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
| Pork Belly | 2 pounds | Rich in flavor and perfect for braising, pork belly is the core of this Red-Cooked Pork. |
| Soy Sauce | 1/2 cup | This adds depth and saltiness, essential for that classic Red-Cooked Pork sauce. |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup | Sugar caramelizes during cooking, giving the pork its iconic red hue. |
| Rice Wine | 1/4 cup | Provides a fragrant aroma that enhances the overall flavor profile. |
| Ginger | 1 thumb-sized piece, sliced | Ginger adds warmth and complexity to the dish. |
| Star Anise | 3-4 pieces | This spice offers a sweet, aniseed flavor that complements the pork beautifully. |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, smashed | Fresh garlic enhances aroma and depth of flavor in Red-Cooked Pork. |
| Water | 1-2 cups | Needed for simmering the sauce until thick and flavorful. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by cutting the pork belly into bite-sized cubes. This will help it cook evenly and soak in all that delicious flavor. Make sure you have all your other ingredients ready as well!
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the pork cubes and cook until they are browned all over. This step is crucial for building flavor in your homemade Red-Cooked Pork.
- Add Aromatics: Toss in the sliced ginger, smashed garlic, and star anise. Stir everything around to release those amazing aromas into the air. You might just get hungry before the pork is even done!
- Mix the Sauce: Pour in the soy sauce, sugar, and rice wine. Stir well to combine. Add enough water to cover the pork by about an inch. This helps create a rich sauce while cooking.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Reduce the Sauce: After simmering, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Let it cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the pork nicely.
- Serve: Once your Red-Cooked Pork is ready, serve it hot over a bed of steamed rice or with some stir-fried greens for a complete meal!
Pro Tips
- Choose the right cut: Pork belly is ideal, but you can also use pork shoulder for a leaner option.
- Marinate overnight: If you’re planning ahead, marinate the pork overnight for deeper flavor.
- Adjust sweetness: Feel free to tweak the sugar based on your personal taste preference.
- Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge—this dish tastes even better the next day!
- Add a spicy kick: For those who like heat, consider adding sliced chili peppers during cooking.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Saturated Fats | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 80mg |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Total Fat | 30g |
FAQs
What is the best way to store Red-Cooked Pork?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer preservation.
Can Red-Cooked Pork be made vegan or gluten-free?
For a vegan version, try using tofu or mushrooms, and use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free options.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Red-Cooked Pork?
Stir-fried greens, steamed rice, or a refreshing cucumber salad complement Red-Cooked Pork beautifully.
How long does it take to prepare Red-Cooked Pork?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, but the cooking time can range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on desired tenderness.
Can I freeze Red-Cooked Pork for later?
Yes, you can freeze it! Make sure it cools completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
What is the history behind Red-Cooked Pork?
This dish can be traced back to ancient Chinese cooking and is often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings.
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork with beef, chicken, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
What makes Red-Cooked Pork so flavorful?
The combination of slow cooking with spices like star anise and the sweetness from sugar creates a unique, rich flavor.
Red-Cooked Pork is not only a dish filled with history and flavor but also a wonderful recipe to try at home. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can impress family and friends with your culinary skills. Don’t forget to personalize it with your favorite sides or a twist of your own!
Tried this Red-Cooked Pork recipe? Let us know your experience in the comments!
