meat stewing

How to Make Authentic Chinese Liu Rou Duan: A Complete Guide

Liu Rou Duan (Sweet and Sour Pork Strips) is a beloved Northeast Chinese dish, loved for its crispy exterior, tender interior, and tangy-sweet sauce. Here’s a step-by-step guide to recreate this restaurant favorite at home.

Ingredients:

- 300g pork loin, cut into 1-inch strips

- 1 egg, beaten

- 2 tbsp cornstarch

- ½ cup all-purpose flour

- 1 cup oil for frying

- 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)

- 1 tbsp garlic, minced

- Sauce: 3 tbsp ketchup, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp vinegar, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Marinate the pork: In a bowl, toss pork strips with beaten egg, cornstarch, and flour until evenly coated. Let rest for 10 minutes.

2. Deep-fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry pork in batches until golden brown (3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.

3. Make the sauce: In a small pan, mix sauce ingredients. Bring to a simmer, then add bell pepper and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Combine: Return fried pork to the pan, toss in the sauce, and coat evenly. Cook for 1 more minute.

Serve hot with steamed rice! For extra crispiness, double-fry the pork briefly before saucing. Enjoy this perfect balance of flavors and textures!

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