Shanghai-style braised pork belly recipe with soy sauce

Imagine the rich aroma of soy sauce and spices wafting through your kitchen, creating an irresistible scent that makes everyone in your home gravitate towards the dining table.

The tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly, braised to perfection, enveloped in a thick, savory sauce – this is the essence of Shanghai-style braised pork belly.

From my experience, this dish never fails to impress, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Preparation Details
• Serves: 4 people
• Difficulty: Medium

The Necessary Ingredients (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather our ingredients.

Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor that define this dish.

• 1 kg pork belly, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry as an alternative)
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 3 slices ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces

The Steps of Preparation (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)

Now that we have everything ready, let’s bring this tantalizing dish to life.

Each step is designed to infuse the pork belly with deep, complex flavors that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ginger, garlic, star anise, and cinnamon stick, and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the pork belly cubes to the pot, searing each side until browned.
4. Pour in the Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, and dark soy sauce, stirring to coat the pork evenly.
5. Sprinkle the sugar over the pork and stir until it dissolves and starts to caramelize.
6. Add the water and green onions, bringing the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
8. Uncover the pot and continue to simmer for another 20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
9. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

• For those looking to adapt the recipe to dietary needs or preferences, here are some variations:
• Vegan Version: Substitute pork belly with firm tofu or seitan and follow the same cooking steps.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure soy sauce is gluten-free and replace Shaoxing wine with gluten-free rice wine.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish not only delights the senses but also offers some nutritional benefits:

• Protein-Rich: Pork belly provides a high amount of protein essential for muscle growth.
• Source of Vitamins: Rich in B-vitamins, which support energy production.
• Healthy Fats: Contains monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.
• Spices: Star anise and cinnamon have anti-inflammatory properties.

Possible Additions or Upgrades

• To elevate this dish even further, consider these enhancements:
• Add hard-boiled eggs during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
• Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a fresh, crunchy contrast.
• Serve with steamed bok choy or broccoli to add a healthy green side.
• Pair with a bowl of jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Q&A

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, after searing the pork and preparing the sauce, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen when reheated, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.

What can I use instead of Shaoxing wine?
Dry sherry or mirin can be good substitutes if you don’t have Shaoxing wine.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze the braised pork belly?
Yes, it freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Is it necessary to use both soy sauce and dark soy sauce?
Yes, regular soy sauce adds saltiness while dark soy sauce provides color and a deeper flavor.

Can I make this dish less sweet?
You can reduce the sugar amount to 2 tablespoons if you prefer a less sweet version.

What side dishes go well with this recipe?
Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, and pickled radishes are great accompaniments.

Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, but you may want to reduce the spices and soy sauce to make it more kid-friendly.

Can I cook this dish in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the sauté function for the initial steps, then cook on high pressure for 35 minutes and allow natural release.

From my experience, this Shanghai-style braised pork belly always leaves a lasting impression on guests.

I hope you enjoy preparing and sharing this recipe as much as I do. If you loved this dish, please share the recipe on social media and spread the joy of cooking!