Forget everything you think you know about cabbage. This isn't your grandma's boiled side dish. We're diving headfirst into the smoky, savory world of grilled Chinese cabbage, a surprisingly delicious and incredibly easy recipe that transforms this humble vegetable into a star. The natural sweetness of the cabbage is beautifully enhanced by the char from the grill, creating a delightful textural contrast. Paired with crispy, flavorful pork belly, this dish is a feast for the senses, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Imagine tender, slightly charred cabbage leaves infused with the rich aroma of grilling, offset by the salty, fatty goodness of perfectly rendered pork belly. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience. Ready to transform your perception of cabbage? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan (20cm)
- Rubber spatula
- Paper towels
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Chinese Cabbage: 300g
- Thinly sliced pork belly
- Melted cheese
- Potato starch: 2 tablespoons
- Chicken stock powder
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the Chinese cabbage into thin strips (3-5mm wide). Remove the root first.
- Wash and thoroughly dry the cabbage strips with paper towels.
- Cut the pork belly in half, then peel each piece and lightly season with salt and pepper (one side only).
- In a bowl, combine the cabbage, potato starch, chicken stock powder, and melted cheese. Mix well.
Step 2. Cook the Cabbage and Pork Belly
- Heat olive oil in a 20cm frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the cabbage mixture to the pan, press down firmly to shape, and top with the seasoned pork belly.
- Cook for 5 minutes on low heat.
- Carefully loosen the edges and bottom of the cabbage, then flip it over using a lid to transfer it.
- Cook the other side on low-medium heat for about 2 minutes, wiping off excess oil as needed.
- Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute on medium heat to finish.
Step 3. Serve
- Transfer to a plate and serve.
Read more: Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce: A Delicious Japanese Recipe
Tips
- Thoroughly dry the cabbage to ensure proper browning and crisping.
- Use a 20cm frying pan for optimal cooking and flipping.
- Wipe off excess oil from the pork to prevent oiliness.
- Experiment with different flour combinations (potato starch and cake flour) for varying textures.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-500
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cabbage?
While Chinese cabbage is ideal for its sweetness and texture, Napa cabbage or even savoy cabbage can be used as substitutes. Keep in mind the cooking time might need slight adjustment.
2. What if I don't have pork belly?
Pork belly adds richness and flavor, but you can substitute with other meats like pork shoulder, chicken thighs, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust seasoning as needed.
This Grilled Chinese Cabbage with Pork Belly recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. The smoky char and juicy pork belly perfectly complement the sweet cabbage, resulting in a meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly elegant. Enjoy this unique and flavorful recipe, and don't be afraid to experiment with your favorite seasonings!