Tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly paired with the subtly sweet and refreshing daikon radish – this Japanese-inspired dish is a symphony of textures and flavors. Imagine succulent, savory pork, its rich fat beautifully rendered, complemented by the crisp, clean bite of the daikon. This recipe offers a delightful balance of richness and lightness, making it a perfect centerpiece for a comforting meal or a sophisticated dinner party. The slow-cooking process allows the pork to absorb the fragrant spices, resulting in a dish that’s both intensely flavorful and surprisingly easy to prepare.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe simplifies the process while maximizing the deliciousness. From selecting the perfect cut of pork belly to achieving the ideal balance of flavors, we’ll guide you through each step with ease and clarity. Ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this unforgettable Pork Belly and Daikon Radish dish together.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Plastic bag
- Aluminum foil
- Pot with lid
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Aromatize the Oil
- Cut the daikon radish in half, then into 5-7mm thick slices. Peel the skin thickly; save the skin for a side dish later.
- Peel and thinly slice the ginger.
- Cut the green onions into small pieces.
- Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare a mixture of potato starch and water.
- Heat salad oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add ginger and cook for 30 seconds to infuse the oil with aroma.
Step 2. Cook the Pork Belly & Daikon
- Add the pork belly to the pan, cooking until about 80% done. Flip and cook the other side.
- Add the daikon radish to the pan and stir-fry until about half-sized (3-4 minutes).
Step 3. Simmer & Season
- Add mirin and sugar, mix well, then add water and soy sauce. Mix thoroughly.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Remove the aluminum foil, mix well, and add miso, ensuring it dissolves completely.
Step 4. Thicken & Finish
- Turn off the heat, add the potato starch mixture, and mix immediately. Return to the heat and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in sesame oil at the very end.
- Garnish with green onions.
Read more: Vegan Braised Lotus Root (Yeongeun Jorim): Easy Korean Recipe
Tips
- Peel the daikon radish thickly to allow flavors to penetrate better.
- Add the sweeteners before soy sauce to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Add potato starch mixture when the heat is off to prevent lumps.
- Add sesame oil last to preserve its aroma.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-700
- Fat: 40-50g
- Carbs: 25-35g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pork?
While pork belly is ideal for its fat content, you can substitute with pork shoulder or even a boneless pork loin, though the cooking time might need adjustment. Expect a leaner result.
2. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a few slices of fresh chili pepper or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce to the braising liquid for extra heat.
3. What can I serve this dish with?
This pork belly and daikon is delicious served with steamed rice, stir-fried greens, or as part of a larger Japanese-inspired meal. It's also great on its own!
This Easy Pork Belly and Daikon Radish recipe delivers a truly satisfying and flavorful meal that's surprisingly simple to make. The tender pork and crisp daikon create a delightful textural contrast, showcasing the beauty of balanced flavors. Enjoy this comforting dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with different spices and additions to make it your own!