Pork belly shogayaki, a Japanese culinary delight, is a dish that beautifully balances tender, succulent pork belly with the vibrant zing of ginger. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a flavour explosion, showcasing the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the pork perfectly complemented by the aromatic ginger and a sweet and savory sauce. It's a surprisingly easy dish to master, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, requiring minimal ingredients but delivering maximum flavour impact. The caramelized edges of the pork create a delightful textural contrast to the tender interior, making every bite a sensory adventure.
This irresistible recipe transcends simple stir-fry territory; it's a culinary experience. The balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements creates a harmonious symphony on your palate. Ready to embark on this flavour journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to creating your own unforgettable Pork Belly Shogayaki.
Tools Needed
Ingredients
- Pork belly
- Onion
- Ginger
- Flour
- Soy sauce
- Sugar
- Mirin
- Sake
- Vinegar
- Cabbage
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Sear Pork Belly
- Thinly slice the onion. The thickness is a bit on the thicker side.
- Cut the pork belly in half, then in half again, making use of its shape in the package.
- Lightly coat the cut pork belly with flour.
- Stir-fry the onions quickly in a frying pan with oil until slightly softened, then remove from the pan.
- In the same pan, grill the pork belly pieces until golden brown on both sides. Wipe off excess oil and any burnt bits.
Step 2. Make & Add the Ginger Sauce
- Combine soy sauce, sugar, mirin, sake, and vinegar. Add lots of grated ginger and mix well.
- Add the sauce to the pork belly in the pan and mix well, coating both sides.
Step 3. Serve the Dish
- Mix the stir-fried onions with the cooked pork belly. Spread any remaining sauce on the cabbage.
Read more: Shojin Ryori: Delicious Buddhist Vegetarian Recipes
Tips
- A light coat of flour on the pork belly helps create a nice golden-brown crust and locks in flavor. Don't coat the underside to make it easier to peel and mix with the sauce.
- Stir-frying the onions quickly retains their texture, while thorough stir-frying brings out their sweetness. This is a personal preference.
- Grilling the pork belly until golden brown creates a crispy exterior and soft interior. This is a unique technique that works particularly well for pork belly.
- Wiping off excess oil from the pork belly helps the sauce stick better and enhance the overall look.
- The added vinegar in the sauce creates a refreshing element, complementing the richness of the pork belly.
- Eating suggestion: Place cabbage and onion on rice, then wrap a piece of the pork belly around it.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
While pork belly is ideal for its richness, you can substitute with pork shoulder or even chicken thighs for a leaner option. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. How do I achieve extra crispy skin?
Pat the pork belly very dry before cooking. High heat searing helps crisp the skin. Consider broiling for the last few minutes for extra crispiness.
3. What can I serve this dish with?
This stir-fry pairs perfectly with steamed rice, noodles, or even a simple side salad. It's also delicious served with stir-fried vegetables.
This Crispy & Juicy Pork Belly Ginger Stir-fry is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated by skillful cooking. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of the perfectly rendered pork belly and the bright, zesty flavor of the ginger sauce. We hope you savor every delicious bite!