When the bustling flavors of night markets dance through my mind, I can’t help but crave the comforting embrace of Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice, or Lu Rou Fan. This dish is a true gem that transforms ordinary ingredients into an experience bursting with rich, aromatic flavors. I first encountered it at a tiny stall where the enticing smells tantalized my senses, drawing me in like a moth to a flame.
Imagine the aroma of tender pork belly simmering slowly in a medley of spices, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine, all mingling to create a savory delight that warms the soul. Perfectly boiled eggs absorb the luscious braising sauce, adding an extra layer of richness. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family dinner or aiming to impress your friends, this dish is an irresistible crowd-pleaser that maintains its authenticity without demanding hours in the kitchen.
In just over three hours, you’ll be enchanted by the flavors and textures that make this meal unforgettable. Get ready to savor a satisfying bowl of Lu Rou Fan that is sure to become a staple in your home. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice So Special?
Comforting flavors: This dish embodies the heartwarming essence of homemade meals that evoke nostalgia.
Unforgettable aromas: The fragrant spices and seasoning wafting through your kitchen create a sense of warmth and welcome.
Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, even novice cooks can master the technique to achieve incredible results.
Crowd-pleaser potential: Whether you’re entertaining guests or feeding a family, Lu Rou Fan is sure to delight everyone at the table.
Versatile additions: Feel free to customize your bowl with extra toppings like pickled vegetables or Asian greens for a burst of freshness.
You’re just a few ingredients away from bringing the enchanting tastes of Taiwan into your home, making this dish a must-try for any home chef!
Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice Ingredients
Unlock the delicious secrets of Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice with these essential ingredients!
For the Pork
• 1 kg pork belly – Choose well-marbled cuts for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds pungent depth to the braising liquid.
• 3 cm fresh ginger, minced – A touch of ginger balances the richness of the pork.
• 3 shallots, finely sliced – Shallots bring a sweet, mild onion flavor that complements the dish.
For the Sauce
• 2 tablespoon soy sauce – Regular soy sauce enhances the savory aspect of the braise.
• 2 tablespoon dark soy sauce – This adds a beautiful color and heightened richness.
• ¼ cup shaoxing wine – It deepens the flavors while introducing a hint of sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – A touch of sweetness balances the umami elements.
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper – Perfect for a bit of warmth without overwhelming spice.
For the Braising
• 2 tablespoon neutral tasting oil – Use for frying shallots without altering flavors.
• 2 cups chicken stock or water – Stock enriches the braising liquid, infusing the pork with flavor.
• 2 star anise – Contributes a warm, slightly sweet aroma that’s quintessential in Asian cooking.
• ½ teaspoon fennel seeds – Adds a subtle herbal note that complements the other spices.
• 1 stick cinnamon bark – A comforting spice that enhances the overall aroma.
• 2 dried bay leaves – Helps to deepen the dish’s flavor profile as it simmers.
You’ll be amazed at how each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting this unforgettable Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice!
How to Make Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice
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Prepare the spice bag: Start by placing the star anise, fennel seeds, and cinnamon bark into a muslin spice bag. This ensures their delightful flavors infuse the broth without any unwanted bits floating around.
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Rinse the pork: Give the pork belly a good rinse under cold water. Then, immerse it in a large pot of cold water. Bring this to a boil, discard the water, and rinse the pork again to ensure it’s clean and ready for flavor absorption.
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Slice the pork belly: Pat the pork belly dry with a paper towel. Slice it into 1 cm thick pieces, then proceed to dice them into bite-sized cubes. This will ensure even cooking and tenderness.
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Fry the shallots: In a wok or medium-sized pan, heat the neutral oil over medium heat. Fry the sliced shallots until they are deep golden brown. Remove half of the shallots and set them aside for garnish later.
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Sauté garlic and ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry until they release their aromatic fragrance, which should take about 1-2 minutes, before adding the diced pork. Cook on high heat for 3 minutes, then deglaze with the shaoxing wine, cooking for 1 more minute.
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Combine ingredients: Transfer the fragrant pork mixture into a heavy-based pot. Add the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, white pepper, brown sugar, chicken stock or water, and the prepared spice bag. Stir to combine all the flavors beautifully.
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Braise the pork: Bring the pot to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 2½ hours, allowing the pork to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
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Boil and peel the eggs: While your pork is braising, boil the eggs in a separate pot. Once cooked, peel them and set them aside, allowing them to absorb the sauce later.
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Add eggs to the pot: After the pork has braised for 2½ hours, carefully mix in the boiled eggs, ensuring they’re submerged in the savory broth. Continue to braise on low heat with the lid on for an additional 30 minutes, turning the eggs occasionally for even color, and adding the reserved fried shallots with 10 minutes remaining.
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Remove the spice bag: Before serving, remember to take out the spice bag, allowing for a smooth and delightful dish free of spice remnants.
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Serve and enjoy: Dish out the Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice into bowls, topping each serving with a boiled egg, some Asian greens, and don’t forget—if you desire, pickled radish makes a tasty garnish too!
Optional: Consider adding some sesame seeds for an extra touch of crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this fragrant dish with delightful sides that complement its rich flavors.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fluffy texture of jasmine rice absorbs the savory sauce, making every bite satisfying and comforting.
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Stir-Fried Bok Choy: A quick sauté brings out bok choy’s natural sweetness, adding a fresh crunch that contrasts with the tender pork beautifully.
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Crispy Pickled Radish: These tangy bites offer a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the braised pork, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Taiwanese Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed with rice vinegar and sesame oil provide a cool, refreshing balance, making your meal even more delightful.
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Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic, these green beans add a charming crunch and a burst of flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the pork.
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Chrysanthemum Tea: This lightly floral tea serves as a lovely, calming drink that enhances your meal’s comforting experience, winding down the rich flavors.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat offers a creamy and luscious finish, wrapping up your meal with a tropical-inspired sweetness that lingers on the palate.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pork belly and spice bag up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld overnight for an even richer taste. Simply store the diced pork and spice bag in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, follow the sautéing and braising instructions as outlined. Boil and peel the eggs on the day of serving to ensure they remain fresh and vibrant. This method not only saves you time on busy weeknights but also guarantees that your Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice are just as delicious as if you made them from scratch in one go!
Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own creativity into this delicious dish for unique flavors and experiences!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the shaoxing wine with additional chicken stock for an equally flavorful braise without dairy.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap out the pork belly for sturdy mushrooms like shiitake or portobello, which soak up the broth beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced fresh chili or a teaspoon of chili oil to the braising liquid for a delightful heat that awakens the senses.
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Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions as a garnish at the end for a freshness that enhances every bowl.
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Rice Alternative: Serve over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb twist while still enjoying the rich braising flavors.
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Savory Nuts: Top with crushed peanuts or cashews for a satisfying crunch that complements the tender braised pork and eggs.
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Sweet-Tart Balance: Consider adding a touch of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds when serving for a sweet-tart flavor contrast.
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Umami Enhancement: A splash of fish sauce or oyster sauce can elevate the umami profile, adding depth to the savory notes in the dish.
The beauty of Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice is that it’s simply perfect for personal touches that connect to your culinary heart!
Tips for the Best Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice
• Choose Quality Pork: Select well-marbled pork belly for a tender, flavorful dish. Lean cuts may result in a dry texture that lacks richness.
• Rinse Properly: Rinsing the pork is crucial to eliminate any unwanted flavors. Make sure to discard the first boil water for the best taste!
• Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid the mistake of rushing the braising process. Give the pork enough time to become tender, ideally at least 2½ hours of low heat cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the braising liquid before adding the eggs. If it’s not savory enough, consider a splash of extra soy sauce or a pinch of salt.
• Turn the Eggs: When adding the boiled eggs, turn them periodically for even coloring and maximum flavor absorption from the broth.
With these tips, your Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice will shine, captivating everyone with its incredible taste and warmth.
How to Store and Freeze Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to develop even further as it sits!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the braised pork and eggs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy, gently reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to restore moisture and richness.
Serve Fresh: Although leftovers are delicious, Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice is best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate comfort food experience!
Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pork belly for Lu Rou Fan?
Absolutely! Look for pork belly that has a good balance of meat and fat. The marbling is crucial; well-marbled cuts will melt beautifully during cooking, giving a rich, tender result. Avoid pork belly with excessive lean parts, as it may turn out dry after braising.
How should I store leftover Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to develop even further, making the dish taste even better on day two. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing it tight to maintain freshness!
Can I freeze my Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice and how?
Definitely! For those scrumptious leftovers, freeze the braised pork and eggs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the dish to cool, portion it out, and transfer to containers or freezer bags. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best quality.
What if my pork belly doesn’t turn out tender?
Very! If the pork isn’t tender after 2½ hours of braising, simply cover it and let it simmer for an additional 30 minutes. It’s all about low and slow cooking, which works wonders on tougher cuts of meat. Just make sure to check occasionally and adjust the liquid if necessary; you can always add stock or water if it looks too dry.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this dish?
Certainly! This dish is not suitable for those who are allergic to soy or have gluten sensitivities due to the soy sauce. Additionally, while the rich flavors make it a treat for us, keep in mind that it contains a significant amount of fat, which may not fit into all dietary lifestyles. If cooking for pets, be cautious, as many spices and sauces used can be harmful to them.
Delicious Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice for Comforting Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the spice bag: Start by placing the star anise, fennel seeds, and cinnamon bark into a muslin spice bag.
- Rinse the pork: Give the pork belly a good rinse under cold water. Then, immerse it in a large pot of cold water. Bring this to a boil, discard the water, and rinse the pork again to ensure it's clean and ready for flavor absorption.
- Slice the pork belly: Pat the pork belly dry with a paper towel. Slice it into 1 cm thick pieces, then proceed to dice them into bite-sized cubes.
- Fry the shallots: In a wok or medium-sized pan, heat the neutral oil over medium heat. Fry the sliced shallots until they are deep golden brown. Remove half of the shallots and set them aside for garnish later.
- Sauté garlic and ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry until they release their aromatic fragrance, which should take about 1-2 minutes, before adding the diced pork.
- Combine ingredients: Transfer the fragrant pork mixture into a heavy-based pot. Add the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, white pepper, brown sugar, chicken stock or water, and the prepared spice bag. Stir to combine all the flavors beautifully.
- Braise the pork: Bring the pot to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 2½ hours.
- Boil and peel the eggs: While your pork is braising, boil the eggs in a separate pot. Once cooked, peel them and set them aside.
- Add eggs to the pot: After the pork has braised for 2½ hours, carefully mix in the boiled eggs, ensuring they’re submerged in the savory broth.
- Remove the spice bag: Before serving, take out the spice bag, allowing for a smooth and delightful dish free of spice remnants.
- Serve and enjoy: Dish out the Taiwanese Braised Pork Rice into bowls, topping each serving with a boiled egg and Asian greens.