This recipe elevates the humble cabbage to new heights with the earthy depth of shiitake mushrooms and the rich savoriness of pork belly. Forget bland boiled cabbage; this stewed version is a symphony of textures and flavors, a comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening or a hearty weekend meal. The combination of tender pork, fragrant mushrooms, and perfectly softened cabbage creates a dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly elegant. It’s surprisingly simple to make, despite the depth of flavor it achieves.
Imagine succulent pork belly melting in your mouth, alongside the satisfying chew of perfectly cooked cabbage and the umami punch of shiitake mushrooms, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Ready to experience this culinary delight? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own masterpiece of Stewed Cabbage with Shiitake Mushrooms & Pork Belly.
Tools Needed
- Pan
Ingredients
- Pork belly
- Cabbage: 1 head
- Shiitake mushrooms
- Rock sugar
- Oyster sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sweet dark soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Light soy sauce: 2-3 tablespoons
- Garlic
- Finely ground pepper
- Coriander root
- Vegetable oil
- Dried chili
- Water: 1200ml (adjustable)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Sauté Vegetables and Meat
- Cut a firm cabbage head into small pieces. Wash and clean.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cabbage and stir-fry until slightly softened and light in color. Set aside.
- Add a little more oil to the pan. Add shiitake mushrooms (dried and soaked or fresh) and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add pork belly to the pan and stir-fry until fragrant and browned. Add rock sugar (optional).
- Add crushed garlic and pepper (or coriander root) to the pork belly and stir-fry until fragrant.
Step 2. Combine, Season, and Simmer
- Add the stir-fried cabbage and shiitake mushrooms to the pork belly. Add water (about 1200ml, adjust as needed).
- Add light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sweet dark soy sauce, granulated sugar, and dried chili (optional). Adjust seasoning to taste. Add salt if needed.
- Stew for at least 1 hour, or until cabbage is tender.
Step 3. Serve
- Once the cabbage is tender, serve hot.
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Tips
- Using coriander root instead of pepper will enhance the flavor.
- Adjust the amount of water according to your preference for soup consistency.
- Adding galangal will add a unique flavor (optional).
- This recipe is less oily and greasy compared to other stews.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-800
- Fat: 40-60g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pork belly?
Yes! You can use other meats like pork shoulder, beef chuck, or even chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What if I don't have shiitake mushrooms?
Other mushrooms like cremini or button mushrooms work well as substitutes. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Omit the pork belly entirely. Add a tablespoon of soy sauce or vegetarian bouillon for extra umami flavor and consider adding some firm tofu for added protein.
This Stewed Cabbage with Shiitake Mushrooms & Pork Belly recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this dish, perfect for sharing with friends and family. We hope you'll try this recipe and make it your own!