Craving a taste of authentic Taiwanese comfort food? Look no further than Red Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan), a culinary masterpiece celebrated for its tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly simmered in a rich, savory sauce. This iconic dish, a staple in Taiwanese night markets and family kitchens alike, boasts a complex flavor profile achieved through a slow-cooking process that infuses the pork with the essence of soy sauce, five-spice powder, and rock sugar. The result is a deeply satisfying and intensely flavorful experience that's both comforting and undeniably delicious. The fragrant aroma alone is enough to transport you to the bustling streets of Taiwan.
This recipe unveils the secrets to achieving perfectly braised pork belly and a luscious, intensely flavorful sauce. We'll guide you through each step, from prepping the ingredients to achieving that signature glistening sheen on the finished dish. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Taiwan? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- air fryer
- pan
- charcoal stove
- bowl
- measuring spoons
- measuring cups
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate & Prepare Sauces
- Combine coconut sugar, three-flavored sauce, white sea-water, oyster sauce, orange-red food coloring, black soy sauce, and pork seasoning powder. Mix well.
- Mix soy sauce, black soy sauce, sugar, light soy sauce, water, and sliced red chili peppers.
Step 2. Cook the Pork
- Grill the marinated pork in an air fryer, oven, or on a pan at 180 degrees for 15 minutes per side, flipping halfway.
Step 3. Create the Red Pork Sauce
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan, stir-fry ginger and garlic until fragrant. Add pork bone broth and red pork marinade. Simmer.
- Add a mixture of yam flour and water to thicken the sauce. Stir continuously until thickened. Add crushed roasted white sesame seeds.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Slice the grilled red pork thinly and serve over rice with the red pork sauce and pickled chili soy sauce.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Marinating the pork overnight will result in a more flavorful and tender result.
- If you don't have yam flour, you can use tapioca flour or corn flour instead.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-700
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
While pork belly is traditional and yields the best results due to its fat content, you can substitute with a cut like shoulder or butt. Just be aware that it might be slightly leaner and require more braising time.
2. How do I store leftover Red Pork Rice?
Store leftover Red Pork Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Red Pork Rice! The rich, savory flavors and tender pork will surely impress your family and friends. This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into a truly unforgettable culinary experience.