Sticky Chinese Pork Belly is a dish that will make your taste buds dance like nobodyās watching. Imagine succulent pieces of pork belly, caramelized to perfection, drizzled with a sweet and savory sauce that sticks to your fingers (and maybe even your face). The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace, making it hard to resist sneaking a piece before itās even served.
On special occasions or just because you deserve it, this sticky delight transforms any dining experience into a feast. I remember the first time I made itāmy kitchen smelled so good that my neighbor knocked on my door, wondering if I was catering. Spoiler alert: I wasnāt, but I did share a plate!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Sticky Chinese Pork Belly recipe offers an easy cooking process that guarantees mouthwatering results every time
- You can customize the sauce to suit your taste preferences
- The rich colors and tantalizing aroma make it an absolute showstopper on any table
- Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends
Ingredients for Sticky Chinese Pork Belly
Hereās what youāll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pork Belly: Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum flavor and tenderness.
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Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that sticky glaze we all crave.
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Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness while enhancing umami flavors.
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Rice Wine: Adds depth and complexity; you can substitute with dry sherry if needed.
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Ginger: Fresh ginger provides a zesty kick; donāt skimp on this aromatic root!
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Garlic: Use fresh cloves for optimal flavor; minced garlic adds warmth to the dish.
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Star Anise: This spice infuses a unique licorice flavor; just one or two will do!
For the Sauce:
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Chicken Broth: Using homemade broth adds richness, but store-bought works too in a pinch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sticky Chinese Pork Belly
Marinating the Pork
Start by slicing your pork belly into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, rice wine, minced ginger and garlic together until combined. Add star anise for that aromatic touch. Toss in the pork and let it marinate for at least one hourāovernight is even better!
Browning the Pork
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your marinated pork belly pieces. Sear them until they turn golden brown on all sides; about five minutes should do it! The sizzling sound is music to your ears, signaling deliciousness ahead.
Simmering the Sauce
Once browned, pour in chicken broth along with the remaining marinade from earlier. Stir gently and bring everything to a boil before reducing to low heat. Cover and let it simmer for about an hourāthis allows flavors to meld beautifully while making your kitchen smell heavenly.
Caramelizing
After simmering, uncover the pot and increase heat slightly. Let it bubble away until the sauce thickens into that coveted sticky glazeāweāre talking about five more minutes here! Stir occasionally so nothing gets stuck or burnt; keep those flavors dancing!
Serving Up
Finally, transfer your sticky Chinese pork belly onto a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if youāre feeling fancy! Serve hot with steamed rice or stir-fried veggiesātrust me; your dinner guests will be singing your praises.
Cleaning Up
Now comes the not-so-glamorous part: cleaning up! But hey, if youāve got leftovers (which you will), just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They taste even better the next day when all those flavors have really settled inālike getting invited back to an exclusive party!
And voilĆ ! Youāve mastered Sticky Chinese Pork Belly. Enjoy each decadent bite while reflecting on how youāve just transformed simple ingredients into something extraordinaryānow thatās what I call cooking magic!
You Must Know
- Sticky Chinese Pork Belly is not just a dish; itās an experience!
- The combination of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors creates a symphony in your mouth
- Perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself after a long day
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the pork belly overnight for deep flavor. Sear the meat until golden brown, then slowly braise it with the sauce. While that simmers, prepare your sidesālike rice or stir-fried veggiesāfor an efficient and delicious meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out soy sauce for tamari for a gluten-free option. Add some chili flakes if you like heat or toss in sesame seeds before serving for added crunch. The beauty of Sticky Chinese Pork Belly is its versatility, so get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy skin, ensure your pork belly is well-dried before searing
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve an even golden-brown crust
- Always taste and adjust your seasoning during cooking for optimal flavor
It was my cousinās birthday when I first made Sticky Chinese Pork Belly. Everyone raved about it so much that I had to fight them off with a spatula just to save some for myself!
FAQs:
What is Sticky Chinese Pork Belly?
Sticky Chinese Pork Belly is a delicious dish featuring tender, flavorful pork belly cooked in a sweet and savory sauce. The dish typically includes soy sauce, rice wine, and a blend of spices that create its signature sticky texture. Itās often served with rice or noodles and garnished with green onions for added freshness. This dish is popular in Chinese cuisine and offers a comforting balance of flavors that many people love.
How do I cook Sticky Chinese Pork Belly at home?
To cook Sticky Chinese Pork Belly at home, start by simmering the pork belly pieces in water to render some fat. Then, sautƩ garlic and ginger before adding the pork belly back into the pan with soy sauce, sugar, and rice wine. Let it cook on low heat until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky. Serve it over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables for an authentic experience you will enjoy.
Can I make Sticky Chinese Pork Belly in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Sticky Chinese Pork Belly in advance. Cook the pork belly as directed, then let it cool completely before refrigerating it in an airtight container. When youāre ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What sides pair well with Sticky Chinese Pork Belly?
Sticky Chinese Pork Belly pairs well with various sides that complement its rich flavor. Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice, as it absorbs the sauce beautifully. You can also serve stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or broccoli for a crunchy contrast. For a lighter option, consider a simple cucumber salad to refresh your palate alongside this hearty dish.
Conclusion for Sticky Chinese Pork Belly:
In summary, Sticky Chinese Pork Belly is an irresistible dish that combines sweet and savory elements for a delightful culinary experience. Itās easy to prepare at home and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Pair it with steamed rice or vibrant vegetables to complete your meal. With these tips and insights, youāll be able to enjoy this tasty recipe any time you crave delicious Asian flavors!

Sticky Chinese Pork Belly
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Sticky Chinese Pork Belly is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory elements. This recipe features tender pork belly coated in a rich, sticky sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this delightful dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests with its aromatic flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice wine (or dry sherry)
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1ā2 star anise
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Marinate the pork belly: Combine brown sugar, soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, garlic, and star anise in a bowl. Add the pork belly and marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results).
- Brown the pork: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the marinated pork belly until golden brown on all sides (about 5 minutes).
- Simmer the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and remaining marinade. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover; let simmer for about 1 hour.
- Caramelize: Uncover and increase heat slightly to thicken the sauce for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot on a platter, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds alongside steamed rice or veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 5 oz (142g)
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For gluten-free options, substitute soy sauce with tamari. Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar according to your preference. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.