Known for its rich, savory and slightly sweet flavor, this pork is a classic dish that brings warmth and heartiness to any table. Pork shoulder marinated in hoisin sauce and braised in soy sauce creates an alluring, luxurious flavor.
The addition of the 5 spice blend gives the dish a wonderful complex nuance that complements the main flavors and enhances the overall culinary experience of the dish.
Juicy, thinly sliced pork pairs perfectly with crisp and refreshing iceberg lettuce to create a pleasing contrast of textures. While the pork spoils your palate with luxurious and bold flavors, the lightness of the lettuce gives the dish a balanced and delightful freshness, making it surprisingly complete.
Contents
⏱ Cooking time — 1 hours and 50 minutes overall. Includes 20 minutes of preparation and cooking + 1 hours 30 minutes unattended.
🔪 Ingredients
For 2-3 servings:
- 500 g (1 lb) pork shoulder
- 30 g (1 oz or 2 tsp.) hoisin sauce
- 50 ml (3 ⅜ tbsp.) soy sauce
- ½ tsp. Chinese 5 spice powder
- 500 ml (2 cups) water
- 55 g (2 oz or 3 tbsp.) sugar
- iceberg or other favorite salad for serving
🥣 Directions
👉 Jump to Short Version of RecipeMarinating pork. Preparing liquid for braising
Put 500 g (1 lb) of pork in a deep bowl and brush evenly with 30 g (1 oz or 2 tsp.) of hoisin sauce. Leave to marinate for 2 hours (or overnight in the refrigerator).
After 2 hours, transfer the marinated meat to a saucepan, add 50 ml (3 ⅜ tbsp.) soy sauce, 500 ml (2 cups) water and ½ tsp. of the 5 spice mix and stir.
Braising and Sauce Preparation
Place the pot on the heat, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a lid and braise for 30 minutes.
Halfway through, after 15 minutes, carefully turn the meat over.
After 30 minutes of braising, add 55 g (2 oz or 3 tbsp.) of sugar, cover and continue braising for another 1 hour.
After an hour of simmering, remove the meat and let it cool, then boil the remaining liquid into a sauce. Boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.
Slicing and Serving
Meanwhile, thinly slice the pork and set aside to cool.
Take a head of iceberg lettuce and cut it into 1 cm (0.4 inch) wide strips.
Arrange the salad on a serving platter, top with the sliced pork and pour the prepared sauce over it.
Now your dish is ready to serve!
Serve cold.
🙋♂️ FAQ
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, while pork shoulder is recommended for its fat content and tenderness, you can use other cuts like pork belly or tenderloin. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish without hoisin sauce?
Hoisin sauce adds a unique flavor, but if unavailable, you can use oyster sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar as a substitute.
How long should I marinate the pork for optimal flavor?
Marinating the pork for at least 2 hours is ideal, but for deeper flavor, marinating overnight in the refrigerator is recommended.
How do I know when the pork is perfectly cooked?
The pork should be tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork. Overcooking can make it tough, so keep an eye on it after the first 30 minutes of simmering.
What can I use instead of the Chinese five-spice powder?
If you don’t have five-spice powder, a combination of ground star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel seeds can be used. Alternatively, just star anise and cinnamon will also work.
Is this dish spicy?
This recipe is not inherently spicy. If you prefer a spicy version, you can add chili peppers or chili oil for heat.
What are the best side dishes to serve with this pork stew?
Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light salad pair well with this dish. The sauce from the stew is excellent drizzled over rice.
Can I freeze this dish for later use?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Cool it completely, then store in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of sugar. Start with half the suggested amount and adjust to taste.
Can I use low-sodium soy sauce in this recipe?
Absolutely. Using low-sodium soy sauce is a good way to control the saltiness of the dish, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or onions can enhance the dish. Add them during the last 30-40 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you desire a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir it into the stew towards the end of cooking.
Is this dish suitable for children?
The dish is generally kid-friendly in terms of spice levels, but be mindful of the soy sauce’s saltiness. You can adjust the seasonings to make it more suitable for children.
Can I add other meats instead of pork?
Certainly. While pork is traditional, you can use beef or chicken, though cooking times may vary. Beef would generally take longer to become tender.
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Chinese-style pork stewed in soy sauce
Ingredients
- 500 g pork shoulder
- 30 g hoisin sauce
- 50 ml soy sauce
- ½ tsp. 5 spice mix
- 500 ml water
- 55 g sugar
- iceberg or other favorite salad for serving
Instructions
- Brush the pork shoulder with hoisin sauce and leave to marinate for 2 hours. After 2 hours, transfer the meat to a saucepan, add the soy sauce, water and 5 spice mix and stir.
- Place the pot on the heat, bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat, braise for 30 minutes, turning the meat over halfway through. Add the sugar, braise for another 1 hour. Remove the meat and boil the liquid down to a sauce over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
- Slice the meat thinly and leave to cool. Slice iceberg lettuce, place on a platter, arrange meat on top, pour sauce over. Serve cold.
