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The moment the savory scent of braised pork belly fills my kitchen, I’m transported back to treasured family gatherings in Shanghai. This dish, with its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and a glossy sauce that practically begs to be savored, is not just a meal but a celebration of tradition. I remember my father standing over the stove, the rich aroma of ginger and scallions wafting through the air, as he shared stories of how this recipe has been lovingly passed down through generations.

If you’ve been feeling uninspired by takeout or craving something hearty and delicious, this Authentic Shanghai Braised Pork Belly is the perfect remedy. Not only does it exude luxury, but the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it invites you to slow down and enjoy the cooking process. With patience and a few humble ingredients, you’ll unlock flavors that are both bold and comforting—perfect for impressing your loved ones or simply indulging yourself. So roll up your sleeves and prepare for a delightful culinary adventure that promises to warm your heart and fill your belly!

Why is Braised Pork Belly so special?

Rich, Festive Flavors: The combination of tender pork and aromatic seasonings creates a flavor explosion, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Cultural Heritage: This dish is an integral part of Shanghai cuisine, connecting you to traditions and stories that make each bite meaningful.
Simplicity Meets Gourmet: Despite its luxurious taste, the recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for any home cook looking to impress.
Perfectly Balanced: The interplay of sweet, savory, and umami flavors ensures a satisfying experience, turning an ordinary meal into a celebration.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it over fluffy steamed rice, soaking up that luscious sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience, and don’t forget to try this easy recipe for steamed rice alongside!

Braised Pork Belly Ingredients

• Experience the rich flavors of Braised Pork Belly with these essential ingredients!

For the Base

Pork Belly with Skin (五花肉) – Look for fresh, high-quality pork belly for the best richness and flavor.
Ginger – Enhances flavor and adds warmth; can be substituted with galangal if you’re in a pinch.
Scallions – Adds aromatic notes to balance the pork’s richness; green onions work in a similar way.

For the Sauce

Shaoxing Wine – Essential for depth of flavor during cooking; dry sherry can be a suitable substitute.
Soy Sauce – Provides the umami backbone; opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
Chinese Cinnamon Bark – Infuses the sauce with warm, sweet notes; regular cinnamon also works as a substitute.
Star Anise – Essential for aromatic intensity, creating a distinctive spice profile; consider whole cloves for a different taste if necessary.
Chinese Rock Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the sauce; regular sugar can substitute, but use slightly less.
Dark Soy Sauce – Deepens color and flavor; you can omit it if unavailable or adjust to your taste.
White Pepper – Adds mild heat and complexity; you can swap it for black pepper if needed.
Sesame Oil – Provides a toasted finish; be careful to use it sparingly for the best balance.

Optional Finish

Fresh Scallions – For garnish, add a pop of freshness and color on top of your dish when serving!

How to Make Braised Pork Belly

Blanch: In a large pot, combine the pork, ginger, and scallions with enough water to cover. Bring to a rolling boil, then stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add Shaoxing wine, reduce heat, and let it simmer gently for about 1 hour.
Prepare: Carefully remove the pork from the pot and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and remove impurities. Discard the blanched ginger and scallions, saving the flavorful broth for later.
Sear: Cut the pork belly into 2-inch pieces. In a non-stick skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork pieces on both sides until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
Mix Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in both soy sauces, Shaoxing wine, cinnamon, and star anise, then cover with the reserved blanching liquid. Bring to a low boil, then reduce to medium-low heat, letting it simmer for approximately 1 hour, or until the pork is gloriously tender.
Finish: Once tender, stir in the rock sugar, white pepper, and dark soy sauce, continuing to simmer until dissolved. Uncover the skillet, letting the sauce reduce and thicken for about 10 minutes.
Serve: Remove the star anise and any other aromatics. Drizzle in the sesame oil, adjusting seasoning with salt or soy sauce as needed. Garnish with fresh scallions for a beautiful and fragrant touch!

Optional: For a touch of acidity, add a splash of black vinegar before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Braised Pork Belly?

Elevate your meal with these delightful accompaniments that beautifully complement the rich flavors of this dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce, creating a harmonious balance with the savory pork belly.
Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed bok choy or spinach adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the richness, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds umami and warmth, perfect for deepening the comforting experience of your dinner.
Pickled Vegetables: The acidity of pickled radishes or cucumbers cuts through the richness, adding brightness and a delightful crunch.
Chinese Scallion Pancakes: These crispy, flaky pancakes bring a beautiful texture and a subtle onion flavor that pairs wonderfully with pork.
Wontons in Chili Oil: Add a touch of spice with wontons in chili oil for a bold flavor contrast that excites the palate.
Chilled Tofu Salad: Silky tofu dressed with sesame oil and soy sauce provides a refreshing and light contrast to the main dish.
Herbal Tea: Serve a fragrant cup of jasmine or chrysanthemum tea to cleanse the palate and complement the meal’s aromatic notes.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat balances the savory flavors of the main course, closing your meal on a deliciously sweet note.

Make Ahead Options

These Authentic Shanghai Braised Pork Belly are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can blanch and sear the pork up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply follow the initial steps of blanching and then searing the pork, allowing it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. When ready to finish the dish, heat a bit of oil, mix your sauce ingredients with the reserved blanching liquid, and simmer everything together until the pork is tender, usually about 1 hour. This advanced prep not only saves time but ensures the flavors meld beautifully, making it just as delicious, if not better, when prepared ahead!

Braised Pork Belly Variations

Customize your Braised Pork Belly experience with these delightful twists that will inspire your creativity in the kitchen!

Vinegar Kick: Add a splash of black vinegar before serving for a tangy punch that balances the richness beautifully.
This small addition can transform the flavor profile, introducing layers of taste you never knew you needed!
Lean Option: Swap pork belly with pork shoulder for a leaner, yet still flavorful alternative; just adjust the cooking time.
It keeps the dish hearty, while still maintaining a similar scrumptious flavor!
Spice It Up: Add sliced chili peppers while simmering for a subtle heat that elevates the dish without overpowering it.
This will tickle your taste buds, giving each bite an exciting kick that warms you from the inside out.
Herbaceous Notes: Toss in a couple of sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary when mixing the sauce for a fragrant herbal twist.
The natural oils released will enhance the rich sauce, adding an aromatic depth that’s truly captivating.
Umami Boost: Mix in fermented black beans for a deeper umami flavor that enhances the savory qualities of the pork.
They lend a unique, salt-forward twist, making each mouthful a treasure of flavors.
Savory Sweetness: Substitute honey for rock sugar to introduce a richer sweetness that complements the savory profile beautifully.
This will add a delightful complexity while maintaining that comforting essence everyone loves.
Citrus Brightness: Zest a bit of orange or lemon into the sauce for a refreshing lift that brightens the overall flavors.
The citrus notes will contrast perfectly with the richness, making your palate sing with joy!
Garnish Variations: Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture and nutty flavor.
This finishing touch not only enhances the presentation but also adds that satisfying crunch you crave!

Storage Tips for Braised Pork Belly

Fridge: Store leftover Braised Pork Belly in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its delicious flavor and tenderness.
Freezer: You can freeze Braised Pork Belly for up to 3 months. Ensure it is cooled completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth for moisture if needed.
Avoid Overheating: Be cautious not to overheat during reheating to preserve the melt-in-your-mouth texture of the pork belly. Enjoy every bite!

Expert Tips for Braised Pork Belly

Choose Quality Pork: Look for fresh, high-quality pork belly for a rich flavor. Fatty cuts yield the best results in your Braised Pork Belly.
Patience is Key: Allow time for the flavors to meld during simmering. Rushing this step may result in a less rich taste.
Don’t Skip Searing: Searing the pork belly before braising enhances texture and adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish.
Watch the Sauce: Monitor the sauce thickness carefully towards the end; too thick can lead to burning, and too thin won’t coat the pork nicely.
Personalize Your Dish: Feel free to add a splash of black vinegar for a tangy twist or substitute protein for variety.
Proper Storage: If you have leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating gently to maintain moisture and flavor.

Braised Pork Belly Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select fresh pork belly?
When selecting pork belly, look for cuts with a good balance of meat and fat. The skin should be pale and smooth, without any dark spots. Opt for a piece that feels firm to the touch, indicating freshness. If possible, ask your butcher for a recommendation, as they often have the best quality available.

How long can I store leftover Braised Pork Belly in the fridge?
You can refrigerate leftover Braised Pork Belly in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure that it’s cooled down before storing. To retain its mouthwatering tenderness, reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist.

Can I freeze Braised Pork Belly for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze Braised Pork Belly, let it cool completely after cooking. Next, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat.

What if my sauce is too thin after cooking?
If your sauce turns out too thin, don’t worry! Simply remove the lid and let it simmer uncovered on medium heat for an additional 10-15 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure it thickens without burning. If you’re in a hurry, a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water) can be added to the sauce while it’s simmering to help thicken it quickly.

Are there any dietary considerations for Braised Pork Belly?
Yes, if you’re cooking for someone with food allergies or dietary restrictions, be cautious with the soy sauce, which contains gluten. You can substitute it with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to accommodate this. For those watching fat intake, consider using a leaner cut like pork shoulder, although cooking times may vary for tenderness.

Can I use other spices instead of star anise?
While star anise provides a unique flavor profile, you can substitute it with whole cloves or a dash of ground allspice for a different, but still aromatic, taste. Just keep in mind that the final flavor will differ slightly. If you’re a fan of experimenting, feel free to enhance the overall spice blend to your liking!