fried crispy pork

How to Make Crispy Fried Pork Fritters: A Complete Guide

Crispy fried pork fritters, or *xiaosurou*, are a beloved Chinese snack with a golden, crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to recreate them at home.

Ingredients:

500g pork shoulder (cut into 1-inch strips), 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 1 egg, 1 cup cold water, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp white pepper, oil for frying, and optional dipping sauces like sweet chili or soy-vinegar.

Steps:

1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix pork with ½ tsp salt, white pepper, and 1 tbsp soy sauce. Let it sit for 20 minutes.

2. Prepare the Batter: Combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Whisk in the egg and cold water until smooth. The batter should be thin but slightly thick.

3. Coat the Pork: Dip each pork strip into the batter, ensuring even coverage. Let excess batter drip off.

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

5. Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Tips: For extra crunch, add a pinch of baking soda to the batter. Maintain oil temperature to avoid sogginess. These fritters are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in an oven to retain crispiness.