Peking Duck

Peking Pork: An Irresistible Delicacy

If you are looking for a recipe that will amaze the taste buds of your family and friends, Peking Pork is the perfect choice. This recipe, inspired by culinary traditions that emphasize intense flavors and unique combinations, will take you on an unforgettable gastronomic journey. With a deep taste and an appetizing appearance, Peking Pork is ideal for a special meal or to indulge yourself on an ordinary evening.

Total preparation time: 2 hours (including marinating)
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

1 kg pork shoulder (choose a quality shoulder with a little fat for a richer taste)
3 green onions (for extra freshness and color)
8 tablespoons soy sauce (source of umami)
8 tablespoons chili sauce (for a bit of heat, you can adjust the amount to your liking)
8 tablespoons sunflower oil (for frying)
4 tablespoons starch (to thicken the sauce)
4 tablespoons sugar (for a sweet-sour contrast)
100 ml red wine (choose a quality wine for better flavor)
2 tablespoons bell pepper paste (for a note of flavor and color)
2 tablespoons sesame oil or sesame seeds (to add a distinct flavor)
1 teaspoon grated ginger (an ingredient that brings a fresh and spicy flavor)

Preparation:

1. Marinating the meat: Start by cutting the pork shoulder into thin strips of about 3-4 cm. Place the strips in a container with a lid for easy marination. In a bowl, mix 4 tablespoons of soy sauce, 4 tablespoons of sunflower oil, 50 ml of red wine, and 4 tablespoons of water. Pour this mixture over the pork, ensuring the strips are well coated. Close the container and refrigerate for at least one hour. For best results, overnight marination is ideal; the flavors will intensify, and the meat will become even more tender.

2. Cooking the meat: Start cooking using a wok or a deep frying pan. Add the remaining sunflower oil and let it heat well. When the oil is hot, add the pork strips along with the marinade. Fry the meat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is well cooked and slightly browned. Once the meat is ready, remove it onto an absorbent towel to remove excess oil.

3. Preparing the sauce: In the wok where you cooked the meat, let the remaining liquid boil. Add the remaining ingredients, except for the starch and sesame. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then return the meat to the wok. Let the sauce simmer on low heat until it reduces and the meat is well coated with the sauce.

4. Finishing the dish: Once the sauce has thickened, add the starch dissolved in a tablespoon of water. Mix well to incorporate. Finally, add the sesame oil and mix again. Turn off the heat.

5. Serving: Cut the green onions into 1-2 cm pieces and sprinkle over the meat. Peking Pork is usually served with rice pilaf, which absorbs the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Helpful tips:

- Make sure the oil is well heated before adding the meat. This step is crucial for achieving even frying and a crispy texture.
- You can add fresh vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to the wok while cooking for a more nutritious and diverse meal.
- If you like a spicy taste, you can add some finely chopped hot peppers to the marinade or sauce.

Nutritional benefits:

Pork shoulder is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle development and overall health. It also contains B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism. Soy sauce adds a note of umami, and ginger has anti-inflammatory properties. Make sure to balance the portion with a side of vegetables to add fiber and nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:

1. What type of meat can I use instead of pork shoulder?
You can use chicken or beef, but the cooking time will vary. Make sure the meat is fully cooked.

2. How can I make the recipe less salty?
You can reduce the amount of soy sauce and replace it with low-sodium soy sauce or an alternative sauce.

3. Can I store the leftovers?
Yes, Peking Pork stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Ideal pairings:

Peking Pork pairs perfectly with simple rice pilaf or rice noodles. You can accompany this dish with a fresh vegetable salad to add a crunchy contrast. Additionally, a refreshing drink, such as green tea or red wine, will perfectly complement the meal.

Personal notes:

This Peking Pork recipe quickly became a favorite in my family. I remember how, as a child, my mother used to prepare this dish on weekends, and the aroma that spread throughout the house would bring us all together around the table. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the preparation and share this moment with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!