Braised pork rice (lu rou fan) – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Braised Pork Rice, known as ‘Lu Rou Fan’ in Mandarin, is a comforting and savory dish deeply embedded in Taiwan’s culinary traditions. This humble yet richly flavored dish features tender, slow-cooked pork that’s been simmered in a soy-based sauce, creating a beautifully aromatic meal when served over fluffy white rice. Often enjoyed as street food or a home-cooked meal, Lu Rou Fan is emblematic of Taiwanese cuisine, showcasing the harmony of sweetness, saltiness, and umami that is characteristic of the region’s food culture.
Ingredients
- pork belly – 500 g / 1.1 lbs
- soy sauce – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
- dark soy sauce – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- rice wine – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
- water – 2 cups / 480 ml
- brown sugar – 2 tbsp / 28 g
- garlic cloves – 4, minced
- shallots – 3, thinly sliced
- five spice powder – 1/2 tsp / 2 g
- cooked white rice – 4 cups / 720 g
- hard-boiled eggs – 2, halved
- scallions – 2, sliced for garnish
- oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
Instructions
- 1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden brown.
- 2. Add the pork belly to the pot and cook until it begins to brown.
- 3. Stir in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice wine, and brown sugar, ensuring the pork is well-coated.
- 4. Pour in the water and add the five spice powder. Bring to a simmer.
- 5. Cover and lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 1.5 hours until the pork is tender.
- 6. Serve the braised pork over a bed of cooked white rice. Garnish with halved hard-boiled eggs and sliced scallions.
Substitutions
- pork belly -> pork shoulder
- dark soy sauce -> regular soy sauce with a dash of molasses
- rice wine -> dry sherry
- brown sugar -> white sugar with a touch of honey
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a touch of ginger for further depth.
- Include star anise for enhanced aroma.
- Use a slow cooker for even more tender meat.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
