Pork belly rice is a deceptively simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that’s beloved across many Asian cuisines. The succulent, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly, rendered to perfection, is the star of the show, balanced beautifully by fragrant rice and a medley of vibrant accompaniments. Whether you crave a comforting home-cooked meal or a quick and easy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers big on flavor and texture without overwhelming your kitchen. The rich, savory pork belly contrasts wonderfully with the freshness of the accompanying vegetables and the subtle sweetness of the rice, creating a delightful symphony of tastes.
This recipe will guide you through each step, from perfectly crisping the pork belly to mastering the art of fluffy rice. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey as we unlock the secrets to creating an authentic and irresistible Pork Belly Rice dish that will leave you wanting more. Let's dive into the detailed instructions and start cooking!
Tools Needed
- Rice cooker
- Plastic bag or bowl
- Knife
- Pot
Ingredients
- Pork belly block: 350-400g
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Sugar
- Sake
- Pepper
- Green onion: 1/2
- Grated ginger
- Mirin
- Sesame oil
- Rice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Rice and Marinate the Pork Belly
- Loosen the rice as usual, then soak it in water for about 30 minutes in a pot. This prevents the rice core from remaining hard.
- Cut the pork belly block vertically, then in half lengthwise. Cut into pieces just under 2cm wide.
- Place the meat in a plastic bag (or bowl). Add sugar and rub it thoroughly into the meat to help it become soft and allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Add sake, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and pepper to the bag. Mix well, seal, and let it marinate for 15 minutes.
- Chop the spring onions into thin diagonal slices.
- Drain the water from the soaked rice.
- Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sake, mirin, grated ginger, and sesame oil to the rice. Mix well to prevent stickiness.
- Add water to the rice, just below the No. 2 mark (adjust according to your rice cooker).
Step 2. Cook and Arrange Ingredients
- Arrange the marinated pork belly, sliced spring onions, and the green parts of the spring onions in the rice cooker.
- Cook the rice as usual in your rice cooker.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
- Once cooked, remove the green parts of the spring onions and gently mix the rice and pork belly together.
Step 4. Enjoy!
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Ochazuke Recipe: Easy Japanese Green Tea Rice Bowl
Tips
- Soaking the rice for 30 minutes helps it cook plumply.
- Rub the sugar into the pork belly first before adding other seasonings for better flavor penetration.
- Add water to the rice up to just below the second mark.
- Remove the green parts of the spring onions before eating.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of pork instead of pork belly?
While pork belly provides the best texture and flavor, you can try a pork shoulder or butt, but be aware that it might be leaner and require adjustments to cooking time and method to prevent dryness.
2. How can I make the pork belly extra crispy?
Pat the pork belly dry before cooking, and ensure your pan is hot enough. Rendering the fat properly is key; don't overcrowd the pan, and consider broiling it at the end for extra crispiness.
3. What are some good side dishes to serve with pork belly rice?
Pickled vegetables, a simple green salad, or even a fried egg are all excellent complements to the richness of the pork belly and rice. Consider the flavors you want to balance and experiment!
Enjoy your delicious and satisfying bowl of Pork Belly Rice! This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. We hope you’ll savor every bite of this flavorful and unforgettable dish.