tofu meat recipe

How to Make Fermented Bean Curd Pork: A Simple Guide

Fermented bean curd pork, a beloved Chinese dish, combines tender pork with the umami-rich flavor of fermented bean curd. Here’s a step-by-step guide to recreate this savory delicacy at home.

Ingredients:

500g pork belly (or shoulder, cut into 2cm cubes), 3-4 fermented bean curd (mashed), 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1 cup water, 2 slices ginger, 1 scallion (cut into sections), and a pinch of five-spice powder (optional).

Steps:

1. Marinate the pork: Place pork in a bowl, add mashed fermented bean curd, soy sauce, sugar, five-spice powder, ginger, and scallions. Mix well and let it marinate for 30 minutes.

2. Sear the pork: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pot over medium heat. Add marinated pork and sear until lightly browned on all sides.

3. Simmer: Pour in water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, or until pork is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Thicken the sauce (optional): If desired, increase heat to reduce the sauce until it thickens slightly, coating the pork.

5. Serve: Garnish with extra chopped scallions and serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips: For a richer flavor, use red fermented bean curd. Adjust sugar or soy sauce to taste. This dish pairs perfectly with plain rice, balancing the salty and savory notes. Enjoy this comforting, traditional meal with minimal effort!