Braised Pork
Tender braised pork infused with savory soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper, perfect for comforting meals and pairs beautifully with rice or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the pork into approximately 1 1/2-inch cubes.
- Wash and dry the pork, then place it in a covered stock-pot.
- Add salt, soy sauce, minced garlic, white vinegar, black pepper, bay leaf, and m.s.g. to the pot.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add water to the pot and stir again.
- Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the liquid reduces to approximately 1 cup.
- Serve the braised pork over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the pork in the soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar overnight. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar if preferred. If you want to reduce sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce. To enhance the dish, consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar for a sweet balance. This recipe pairs well with fried rice, especially Grandma'S Pork-Fried Rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the braised pork over a bed of steamed rice for a hearty meal. It also pairs well with sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced plate. For extra crunch, top with chopped scallions or sesame seeds. This dish can be a main attraction in a Chinese-inspired dinner alongside other pork recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the pot and warm over low heat to prevent the pork from drying out. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a little water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Braised Pork contains roughly 589 calories, with 49g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (98% of the Daily Value), iron (73% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1992mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, you can use pork shoulder or pork loin if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts may require longer or shorter cooking times to become tender.
Is it necessary to add m.s.g.?
While m.s.g. enhances umami flavor, it is not essential. You can omit it or substitute with a little extra soy sauce or mushroom powder for a similar depth of flavor.
Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method will yield tender, flavorful pork.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).