What To Know
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the pork from the cooking liquid and transfer it to a colander to drain.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the pork is heated through and the sauce is glossy and caramelized.
Indulge in the delectable flavors and tantalizing textures of double cooked pork, a culinary masterpiece that has captivated taste buds for centuries. This mouthwatering dish, known for its crispy exterior and tender, succulent interior, is a testament to the art of slow cooking and double frying. With this comprehensive recipe, you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen and impress your loved ones with your culinary prowess.
Ingredients for a Perfect Double Cooked Pork
- 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Chinese rice wine or dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil, plus more for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions for Double Cooked Pork
1. Marinating the Pork
In a large bowl, combine the pork cubes, soy sauce, Chinese rice wine, dark soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, ginger, and garlic. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor absorption.
2. First Cooking: Braising the Pork
Transfer the marinated pork to a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Add enough water to cover the pork by about 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender and cooked through.
3. Draining and Cooling the Pork
Use a slotted spoon to remove the pork from the cooking liquid and transfer it to a colander to drain. Allow the pork to cool completely to room temperature.
4. Second Cooking: Deep Frying the Pork
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Working in batches, carefully add the cooled pork cubes to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the fried pork from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
5. Preparing the Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the remaining vegetable oil, soy sauce, Chinese rice wine, dark soy sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Glazing the Pork
Add the crispy pork cubes to the prepared sauce and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the pork is heated through and the sauce is glossy and caramelized.
7. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the double cooked pork to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite sides.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Double Cooked Pork
- For the best flavor and texture, use a fatty cut of pork shoulder.
- Marinate the pork for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Simmer the pork until it is tender but not falling apart.
- Drain and cool the pork thoroughly before frying to prevent splattering and to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Fry the pork in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Glaze the pork in the prepared sauce just before serving to retain its crispy texture.
Variations on the Double Cooked Pork Recipe
- Spicy Double Cooked Pork: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Sour Double Cooked Pork: Combine equal parts soy sauce and ketchup in the sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Honey Garlic Double Cooked Pork: Add 1/4 cup of honey and 2 tablespoons of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweet and savory combination.
The Art of Pairing Double Cooked Pork
- Steamed Rice: The classic accompaniment to double cooked pork, steamed rice absorbs the flavorful sauce and complements the crispy texture.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Pair the pork with a side of stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or baby bok choy, for a balanced meal.
- Steamed Buns: Serve the pork in steamed buns for a handheld and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Final Note: A Culinary Delight for All Occasions
Double cooked pork is a culinary masterpiece that combines the best of both worlds: crispy, flavorful exteriors with tender, succulent interiors. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply craving a satisfying meal, this recipe will elevate your dining experience and leave a lasting impression. With its versatility and endless variations, double cooked pork is a dish that will delight taste buds and become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Popular Questions
1. What is the secret to crispy double cooked pork?
The key to crispy double cooked pork is to marinate the pork thoroughly, drain and cool it completely before frying, and fry it in hot oil until golden brown.
2. Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
While pork shoulder is the traditional cut for double cooked pork, you can use other fatty cuts such as pork belly or pork ribs. However, the cooking time may vary slightly.
3. How do I store leftover double cooked pork?
Store leftover double cooked pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through before serving.
