Chinese Roast Pork Belly Recipe
If you’re a fan of succulent, crispy, and flavorful dishes, you’re in for a treat. Chinese Roast Pork Belly, also known as “Siobak” in Chinese cuisine, is a mouthwatering delicacy that hails from the heart of China. In this article, we’ll explore the history of this dish, provide step-by-step instructions, list the ingredients, estimate its calorie content, and share insights on equipment and serving sizes. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
A Glimpse into the History:
Chinese Roast Pork Belly, or Siobak, is deeply rooted in Chinese culinary traditions. It’s a dish that has stood the test of time, with its origins dating back to ancient China. It was initially a ceremonial dish, often served during important festivities and celebrations. Over the years, it has evolved to become a beloved dish enjoyed both in China and worldwide.
Chinese Roast Pork Belly Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Sharp knife
- Meat thermometer
- Roasting pan
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) of pork belly
- 2 tablespoons of coarse salt
- 1 teaspoon of Chinese five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon of white pepper
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of Shaoxing wine (Chinese rice wine)
- 1 teaspoon of vinegar
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of dark soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of red fermented tofu (optional, for color)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Belly: Start by rinsing the pork belly and patting it dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to score the skin deeply, ensuring you cut through the skin and into the fat layer.
- Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix the salt, five-spice powder, white pepper, sugar, Shaoxing wine, vinegar, minced garlic, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and red fermented tofu (if using). Rub this mixture thoroughly over the pork, ensuring it reaches the cuts in the skin.
- Refrigerate: Place the marinated pork in the refrigerator uncovered for at least 12 hours or overnight. This allows the skin to dry, resulting in crispy crackling.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
- Roasting: Place the marinated pork on a wire rack in a roasting pan, with a shallow layer of water in the pan. Roast for 30 minutes at 220°C to crisp the skin. Then, reduce the heat to 160°C (320°F) and roast for an additional 1.5 hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F).
- Rest and Slice: Once done, let the roast pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing it into mouthwatering pieces.
Video
Similar Recipes to Explore:
– “Honey Glazed Chinese Roast Pork Belly”
– “Cantonese-Style Roast Duck”
– “Chinese Char Siu: Sweet and Savory Barbecued Pork”
Conclusion:
Indulge in the crispy perfection of Chinese Roast Pork Belly, a dish that has stood the test of time. From its rich history to the tantalizing flavors, it’s a culinary journey worth embarking upon. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and experience the deliciousness of this Chinese delicacy. Your taste buds will thank you!
YouTube Video Credits:
Taste Show
Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Roast Pork Belly
1. What is Chinese roast pork belly?
Chinese roast pork belly, known as “siu yuk,” is a dish featuring pork belly seasoned with a unique blend of Chinese five-spice powder, soy sauce, and other spices. It is roasted until the skin becomes crispy, creating a flavorful and tender dish.
2. How does Chinese roast pork belly differ from Western roast pork?
Chinese roast pork belly stands out for its distinctive seasoning, incorporating Chinese five-spice powder and soy sauce. The result is a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from Western roast pork.
3. What is the process for preparing Chinese roast pork belly?
The preparation involves marinating the pork belly with a blend of seasonings, allowing it to absorb flavors. It is then roasted until the skin achieves a crispy texture, creating a contrast with the juicy meat.
4. What’s the key to achieving crispy skin on Chinese roast pork belly?
To attain crispy skin, ensure the pork skin is dry before roasting, use high heat initially, and allow the skin to blister and crisp up during the cooking process.
5. Can Chinese roast pork belly be made at home?
Certainly, Chinese roast pork belly is achievable at home with many available recipes guiding home cooks on marination, roasting techniques, and achieving the desired crispy skin.
6. What are typical seasonings used for Chinese roast pork belly recipe?
Common seasonings include Chinese five-spice powder, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and occasionally hoisin sauce or honey for added sweetness.
7. Is there a preferred cut of pork belly for this dish?
The preferred cut is usually pork belly with the skin on, as the skin becomes the crispy, flavorful highlight. Some recipes may specify a particular cut, such as “sam shui” pork belly.
8. What sides complement Chinese roast pork belly?
Chinese roast pork belly pairs well with steamed white rice, bok choy, or other green vegetables. It’s often served with hoisin sauce or plum sauce for dipping.
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