Pork Belly in Garlic Sauce (Suanni Bairou) Perfect Spring Summer Recipe! CiCi Li, Asian Home Cooking

pork belly

🥗Healthier: chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken thighs provide a leaner option while pork shoulder is often more affordable.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce

💰Cheaper: tamari

Low-sodium soy sauce reduces sodium intake, while tamari is a gluten-free alternative.

sesame oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil is a healthier fat, while canola oil is often less expensive.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth is a lighter option, and water with seasoning can cut costs.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Add diced pork belly and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove pork belly and set aside, leaving the fat in the skillet.

Add minced garlic, ginger, and chopped scallions to the skillet; sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Return the pork belly to the skillet and add soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar; stir to combine.

Pour in chicken broth and add star anise and bay leaves; bring to a simmer.

Cover and cook on low heat for 30-40 minutes, until pork is tender.

Uncover and increase heat to reduce the sauce, about 5-10 minutes.

Stir in sesame oil and black pepper; adjust seasoning as needed.

Garnish with sliced green onions and coriander before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: