Twice-cooked pork, also known as “Huí Guō Ròu” in Mandarin, is a traditional Chinese dish that originated from Sichuan cuisine. This delectable dish is renowned for its rich history and distinctive taste profile. The preparation of twice-cooked pork involves a two-step cooking process that enhances its flavors and texture.
The history of twice-cooked pork can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty in China, where it gained popularity in the province of Sichuan. Legend has it that a chef accidentally dropped a slice of pork while cooking, prompting him to retrieve it and cook it again in a different manner. To his delight, the twice-cooked pork turned out to be exceptionally flavorful, leading to its inclusion in the regional cuisine. Since then, this dish has become a staple in Sichuan cuisine and has spread to other parts of China and the world.
The taste profile of twice-cooked pork is a delightful combination of smoky, savory, and spicy flavors. The dish is typically made using slices of pork belly that are first simmered until tender, then allowed to cool and sliced thinly. These slices are then stir-fried with a medley of ingredients, including fermented broad bean paste, garlic, ginger, and various spices. The key element that sets this dish apart is the generous use of Sichuan peppercorns, which impart a numbing, citrusy sensation to the palate. The result is a harmonious blend of succulent pork, fiery spices, and aromatic seasonings, creating a mouthwatering dish that is simultaneously sweet, savory, and spicy.
The twice-cooked pork is cherished not only for its tantalizing taste but also for its contrasting textures. The initial cooking renders the pork belly tender and juicy, while the second stir-frying process adds a delightful crispness to the outer layer, making it a delight to bite into. The combination of soft and crispy textures creates a wonderful balance, further elevating the overall dining experience.
Twice-cooked pork has gained widespread popularity both within and beyond China’s borders. Its distinctive flavors and textures have captivated the taste buds of people around the world, making it a sought-after dish in Chinese restaurants globally. Whether you savor it alongside a bowl of steamed rice or indulge in its spicy goodness with a side of noodles, twice-cooked pork remains a beloved culinary treasure, celebrated for its history, flavors, and textures.
Twice cooked pork
Ingredients
- – 2 pounds 900g boneless pork belly
- – 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- – 4 cloves garlic minced
- – 1 tablespoon ginger minced
- – 2 green onions chopped
- – 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- – 1/4 cup soy sauce
- – 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- – 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- – 1 cup chicken broth
- – Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the pork belly on a baking sheet and season it with salt and pepper. Roast the pork in the oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until it becomes tender and the skin is crispy.
- Remove the pork from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, cut the pork into bite-sized pieces, making sure to keep the crispy skin intact.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped green onions. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Shaoxing wine or dry sherry to the skillet and cook for another minute to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the garlic, ginger, and green onions. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
- Add the pork pieces to the skillet and gently stir to coat them with the sauce. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the pork to heat through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Transfer the pork to a serving dish, arranging the pieces with the crispy skin facing up. Pour the remaining sauce over the pork.
- Serve the twice-cooked pork hot with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables or stir-fried greens. Enjoy!
