Braised Pork Belly with Black Fungus, Chinese Lettuce, and Tofu (雲耳紹菜豆腐焖火腩)
雲耳紹菜豆腐焖火腩, or Braised Pork Belly with Black Fungus, Chinese Lettuce, and Tofu, is a savory and hearty Chinese dish that combines the rich flavors of pork belly with the unique textures of black fungus and tofu, complemented by the fresh taste of Chinese lettuce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Here’s how you can make it at home.
Ingredients
For the Pork Belly:
- 500 g pork belly cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger sliced
- 2 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as needed
For the Vegetables and Tofu:
- 200 g black fungus wood ear mushrooms, soaked in water until expanded and then sliced
- 1 head Chinese lettuce Shaoxing lettuce, cut into large pieces
- 1 block firm tofu cut into cubes
- 2 green onions chopped for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Pork Belly:
- Blanch the pork belly in boiling water for about 5 minutes to remove excess fat. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Pork Belly:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the pork belly and cook until it starts to brown.
Add Aromatics and Seasonings:
- Add minced garlic, ginger slices, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Stir-fry until aromatic.
- Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Braise the Pork Belly:
- Add enough water to cover the pork belly. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the pork is tender.
Prepare the Black Fungus and Tofu:
- While the pork is braising, prepare the black fungus by soaking it in water until it expands. Then slice it.
- Cut the tofu into cubes and set aside.
Add Vegetables and Tofu:
- Add the black fungus, Chinese lettuce, and tofu to the pot with the pork belly.
- Continue to braise everything together for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the lettuce is wilted and the tofu is heated through.
Check Seasoning and Garnish:
- Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Serve:
- Serve the Braised Pork Belly with Black Fungus, Chinese Lettuce, and Tofu hot. It pairs well with steamed rice.
