Sticky Chinese beef belly

This Sticky Chinese beef belly recipe is a delightful dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. With tender beef slow-cooked in a rich, savory-sweet sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of ginger, garlic, and a glossy sauce creates a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests while being easy enough to prepare at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of soy sauce, hoisin, and brown sugar creates a sticky glaze that’s simply mouthwatering.
• Comforting Dish: Enjoy the warmth and richness of this braised beef belly, perfect for cozy meals.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe ensures anyone can achieve delicious results.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or noodles for different meal experiences; it adapts to your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and reheat for quick meals throughout the week without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan: Ideal for searing and simmering ingredients evenly for rich flavor development.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting vegetables and meat efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts of beef belly and aromatics for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 1.5 pounds beef belly, cut into 1-inch pieces

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and sliced

For the Sauce

• ¼ cup light soy sauce
• ¼ cup dark soy sauce
• ⅓ cup Shaoxing apple vinegar
• ¼ cup hoisin sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup water

For Garnish

• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, (for garnish)

How to Make Sticky Chinese beef belly

Step 1: Sear the Beef Belly

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
1. Add beef belly and sear until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add garlic and sliced ginger.
1. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Return beef belly to the pan.
1. Add light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and water.
2. Stir well to coat the beef with the sauce.

Step 4: Simmer to Tenderness

Bring the mixture to a boil.
1. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1 to 1½ hours, stirring occasionally.
2. Cook until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened into a sticky glaze.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

With its rich flavors and comforting qualities, this Sticky Chinese beef belly will surely become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

How to Serve Sticky Chinese beef belly

Sticky Chinese beef belly is a versatile dish that shines as a main course. It pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its rich flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the sticky beef belly over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, creating a comforting meal.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair this dish with a mix of colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for added nutrition and crunch.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves as wraps for the beef belly. This adds a fresh element and makes for an enjoyable handheld meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro or basil on top for a burst of freshness that complements the savory notes of the beef.

How to Perfect Sticky Chinese beef belly

To achieve the best results with your Sticky Chinese beef belly, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Choose Quality Beef: Select well-marbled beef belly for superior tenderness and flavor after braising.
• Sear Properly: Ensure you sear the beef until browned on all sides before adding other ingredients. This step enhances depth of flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust sweetness by adding more brown sugar or vinegar as desired.
• Simmer Gently: Cook on low heat to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Chinese beef belly

When serving Sticky Chinese beef belly, complement it with side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly; fluffy jasmine rice is ideal.
2. Garlic Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy with garlic adds a nutritious crunch to balance the richness of the beef.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides a cool contrast to the warm, savory dish.
4. Chili Garlic Noodles: Spicy garlic noodles add an exciting kick and make for a filling side.
5. Vegetable Fried Rice: Packed with veggies, fried rice is an excellent way to incorporate more flavors into your meal.
6. Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil, these green beans offer a nutty taste that complements the sticky beef nicely.
7. Egg Drop Soup: A light soup can be a perfect appetizer before diving into the main dish, setting an Asian-themed dinner tone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Sticky Chinese beef belly, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish significantly. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the searing step: Searing the beef belly adds depth of flavor and a rich color. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for a delicious result.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Tasting and adjusting the sauce is crucial. If it’s too sweet or salty, balance it with a touch more vinegar or water.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Timing is key for tenderness. Make sure to simmer long enough so the meat becomes tender but not falling apart.
• Using low-quality sauces: The quality of soy sauce and hoisin directly influences the taste. Choose good brands for the best flavor profile.
• Ignoring garnishes: Garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds enhance both presentation and taste. Don’t skip this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Sticky Chinese beef belly

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Sticky Chinese beef belly

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Sticky Chinese beef belly that may help you perfect your dish.

What makes Sticky Chinese beef belly sticky?

The stickiness comes from the combination of hoisin sauce and brown sugar that thickens as it cooks, creating a glossy glaze on the meat.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sticky Chinese beef belly?

Yes! You can use different meats like chicken or lamb, and vary sauces according to your taste preferences while keeping the core flavors intact.

How long does it take to cook Sticky Chinese beef belly?

The total cooking time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with most of that being simmering time to ensure tenderness.

Is Sticky Chinese beef belly spicy?

No, this dish is not spicy. It focuses on savory-sweet flavors. You can add chili flakes if you prefer a kick!

Can I use other vinegars instead of apple vinegar?

Absolutely! Rice vinegar or even balsamic can work well as substitutes while imparting their unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Chinese beef belly is a delightful dish that balances rich flavors with comforting textures. Its versatility allows for various customization options—try adding vegetables or adjusting spices based on your preferences. This recipe promises warmth and satisfaction, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Sticky Chinese Beef Belly

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting, savory-sweet delight of Sticky Chinese beef belly, a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This tender beef slow-cooked to perfection in a rich sauce featuring soy sauce, hoisin, and a hint of brown sugar creates a glossy glaze that will impress your guests. Enhanced with aromatic ginger and garlic, this recipe is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare at home. Whether served over fluffy rice or paired with vibrant stir-fried vegetables, this dish is versatile enough to suit every palate.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 pounds beef belly, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and sliced
• ¼ cup light soy sauce
• ¼ cup dark soy sauce
• ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup hoisin sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup water
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sear the beef belly until browned on all sides (5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, sauté minced garlic and sliced ginger for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Return the seared beef to the pan. Add light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir well to coat the beef.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer uncovered for 1 to 1½ hours until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens into a sticky glaze.
5. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 880mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg