Sticky Chinese Pork Belly

Introduction

This savory and sweet Sticky Chinese Pork Belly recipe features melt-in-your-mouth premium country-style pork belly from Tenderbites. Follow along for a guide on how to slow-cook this pork belly to perfection with a caramelized glaze that enhances its rich flavors. It's perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Preparation

To make this Sticky Chinese Pork Belly recipe, you'll want to start with top-grade pork ribs or belly from TenderBites. This high-quality pork belly ensures the right balance of tender meat and flavorful fat. Slow cooking will allow the pork to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while the sauce reduces to a rich, sticky glaze.

How to Cook Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Cut the Premium Country Style Pork Belly into thick slices to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor absorption. High-quality pork, like the Pork Belly slices from Tenderbites, is key for achieving a tender, flavorful dish.

Step 2: Create the Marinade

Mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice wine, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and five-spice powder in a bowl. Stir until fully combined. This marinade will impart a deep, rich flavor to your pork ribs or belly.

Step 3: Marinate the Meat

Place the Pork Belly slices in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is well coated. Let the pork ribs or belly marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for even more flavor.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Meat

Transfer the marinated pork ribs or belly slices to a deep pan or skillet. Add brown sugar and water (or broth), stirring to dissolve the sugar. Cover the pan and slow-cook the pork belly over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. Slow cooking makes the pork incredibly tender while the sauce gradually thickens.

Step 5: Caramelize and Glaze

Remove the lid once the pork ribs or belly is tender, and increase the heat to medium-high. Allow the sauce to reduce further and thicken into a glossy, sticky glaze. Be sure to turn the pork slices occasionally to coat them evenly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

After the sauce has caramelized, remove the pork from the heat. Arrange the slow-cooked pork belly slices on a plate and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Pair with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Customizing the Sticky Chinese Pork Belly

This recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your personal preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a teaspoon of chili flakes or Sriracha to the marinade. You can also substitute the rice wine with apple cider vinegar for a slightly tangier flavor. For an extra crispy texture, sear the pork belly slices before slow cooking. Pair the dish with a side of sautéed bok choy or steamed dumplings for a complete meal experience.