Dong Po Rou

Introduction to Dong Po Rou

Dong Po Rou is a traditional Chinese dish which traces its origins back to the Song Dynasty, around the year 1079 AD. Named after renowned Chinese poet and gastronome, Su Dongpo, this braised pork belly dish is emblematic of Chinese culinary art, evoking a perfect balance of flavors with its tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture. The dish showcases a rich red-brown color and a hint of aromatic sweetness, achieved through a slow-cooking process.

Legend goes that Su Dongpo created this dish accidentally when he was preparing a meal for his guests. His innovation led to Dong Po Rou becoming a festival favorite, loved for its simplicity yet deep, complex flavors.

Ingredients for Dong Po Rou

• Pork Belly
• Light Soy Sauce
• Dark Soy Sauce
• Shaoxing Wine
• Rock Sugar
• Ginger
• Green Onions
• Star Anise
• Cinnamon
• Water

Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather all the ingredients. Ensure the pork belly is of high quality, preferably with a nice balance of meat and fat. This ensures it retains tenderness and absorbs flavors efficiently.

Ingredient Preparation

• Pork Belly: Cut into 2-inch squares for even cooking.
• Ginger: Slice thinly to release maximum flavor.
• Green Onions: Cut into 3-inch long pieces.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Blanching the Pork Belly

Place the pieces of pork belly in a pot of boiling water. Blanch for 5 minutes to remove impurities. Remove and rinse the pork in cold water, then drain.

Step 2: Browning the Pork

Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add the drained pork belly, skin side down. Render the fat for about 10 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Creating the Braising Liquid

In a deep pot, combine light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, rock sugar, ginger slices, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 4: Braising the Pork

Add the browned pork belly pieces to the pot of braising liquid. Add star anise and cinnamon for additional aroma. Reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 2-3 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the pork belly remains submerged and the sauce does not reduce too much.

How to Enjoy Dong Po Rou

Once cooked, Dong Po Rou can be served alongside steamed rice or stuffed in buns for a delectable treat. Garnish with sliced green onions for added freshness and flavor contrast. Set a timer to savor your meal whilst it's perfectly hot, and invite the family to indulge in this timeless culinary masterpiece.

Perfect Pairings

To enhance the dining experience, serve Dong Po Rou with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a bowl of hot and sour soup.

Conclusion

Dong Po Rou, with its rich history and indulgent flavor, offers a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine that embodies the essence of its cultural heritage. Its perfect balance of sweetness, savory richness, and tender texture make it a memorable dish for special occasions or festive gatherings. Follow these steps, and you'll be able to bring a piece of Chinese history into your home through the magic of food.