Elevate your taste buds: savor the richness of pork belly with xo sauce

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our exquisite pork belly with XO sauce recipe. This culinary masterpiece combines the richness of tender pork belly with the aromatic complexity of XO sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

For the Pork Belly:

• 1.5 pounds pork belly, skin on
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the XO Sauce:

• 1/2 cup dried scallops
• 1/2 cup dried shrimp
• 1/4 cup Chinese sausage, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup Jinhua ham, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup shallots, minced
• 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

Preparing the Pork Belly:
1. Score the skin of the pork belly with a sharp knife, making shallow cuts about 1/4 inch apart.
2. Rub the pork belly with the salt, brown sugar, and black pepper.
3. Place the pork belly in a roasting pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Making the XO Sauce:
1. Soak the dried scallops and shrimp in warm water for 30 minutes.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the Chinese sausage and Jinhua ham and cook until crispy.
4. Add the garlic, ginger, and shallots and cook until softened.
5. Add the rehydrated scallops and shrimp and cook until browned.
6. Stir in the Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Cooking the Pork Belly:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the pork belly from the refrigerator and pat dry.
3. Place the pork belly in a roasting pan and roast for 1 hour.
4. Remove the pork belly from the oven and turn the heat up to 425°F (220°C).
5. Roast the pork belly for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Assembling the Dish:
1. Slice the pork belly into thin slices.
2. Spread a generous amount of XO sauce over the pork belly.
3. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Culinary Tips:

• For an extra crispy skin, roast the pork belly at a higher temperature for a shorter amount of time.
• If you don’t have XO sauce, you can substitute with a mixture of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and Sriracha.
• Serve the pork belly with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side of your choice.

The Perfect Pairing:

• Wine: Pair this dish with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.
• Beer: A crisp pilsner or lager will complement the flavors of the pork belly and XO sauce.
• Cocktail: A classic Manhattan or an Old Fashioned will add a sophisticated touch to your meal.

A Feast for the Senses:

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of this pork belly with XO sauce recipe. The tender pork belly, infused with the aromatic XO sauce, will create an unforgettable culinary experience that will satisfy your cravings and leave you yearning for more.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use pork shoulder or pork loin, but the pork belly will provide the best flavor and texture.
Q: How long can I store the XO sauce?
A: The XO sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Q: What sides pair well with this dish?
A: Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, pickled cucumbers, and roasted potatoes are all excellent accompaniments to pork belly with XO sauce.