There’s something truly special about the comforting aroma of slow-cooked meals wafting through the kitchen, especially during the colder months. One dish that embodies this cozy feeling is the classic Chinese Braised Pork Leg. This hearty recipe features succulent pork leg simmered in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, aromatic spices, and a touch of sweetness. The result is tender meat that practically falls off the bone and a rich, savory sauce that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish in your own kitchen!
Chinese Braised Pork Leg
Ingredients:
– 3-4 lbs pork leg
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup dark soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
– 2 star anise
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 4-5 dried red chilies
– 4 cups water
– Green onions and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Begin by preparing the pork leg. If the pork leg is not pre-cut, you can ask your butcher to chop it into 2-inch sections. Rinse the pork leg under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat a large dutch oven or deep pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork leg in batches until browned on all sides. This step helps develop flavor in the final dish.
3. In the same pot, add the minced garlic, sliced ginger, star anise, cinnamon sticks, and dried red chilies. Saute for a minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine, stirring to combine with the aromatics.
5. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the mixture and stir until dissolved. This will add a hint of sweetness to the braising liquid.
6. Carefully return the seared pork leg back to the pot. Add water until the pork leg is mostly submerged. Bring the liquid to a boil.
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the pork leg simmer gently for about 2-2.5 hours. Make sure to check on it occasionally and add more water if it reduces too much.
8. After the pork leg is tender and falling off the bone, remove it from the pot and set aside.
9. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the braising liquid reduce until it thickens into a luscious sauce.
10. Return the pork leg to the pot to coat it in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
11. Serve the Chinese Braised Pork Leg hot, garnished with fresh green onions and cilantro. Enjoy this comforting dish with steamed rice or noodles.
Embrace the warmth and flavors of this Chinese Braised Pork Leg recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. The tender meat, infused with aromatic spices and savory soy sauce, will delight your senses and bring a touch of cozy indulgence to your dining table. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious dish and create lasting memories gathered around a hearty meal.
