Chinese Food

Introduction

In the vast realm of Chinese cuisine, there lies a dish that combines the savory essence of pork with the delicate texture of tofu skin, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Known colloquially as “Shredded Pork with Tofu Skin” (or Rou Si Chao Qian Zhang in Mandarin), this dish is a staple in many Chinese households, especially in regions where tofu and its derivatives are abundant. It is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary through meticulous cooking techniques and seasoning.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to make Shredded Pork with Tofu Skin, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking process. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, following these steps will ensure that you create a delicious and authentic version of this classic Chinese dish.

Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s list down the essential ingredients you’ll need:

1. Pork Shoulder or Pork Belly (about 300 grams) – These cuts are preferred for their fatty marbling, which adds flavor and moisture to the dish.
2. Tofu Skin (also known as Bean Curd Sheets or Yuba) (about 200 grams) – Look for thin, translucent sheets that are not too brittle.
3. Garlic (3-4 cloves), finely chopped
4. Ginger (a small piece), finely chopped
5. Green Onions (2 stalks), chopped into segments for garnish
6. Soy Sauce (2-3 tablespoons) – Use light soy sauce for a milder flavor or dark soy sauce for a deeper hue.
7. Oyster Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Adds a rich, umami flavor to the dish.
8. Shaoxing Wine (1 tablespoon) – Optional, but enhances the aroma and flavor.
9. Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon) – Adds a nutty, fragrant touch.
10. Cornstarch (1-2 tablespoons) – Mixed with water to create a slurry for thickening the sauce.
11. Vegetable Oil (for frying)
12. Salt and White Pepper (to taste)
13. Chicken Stock or Water (about 1/4 cup) – To adjust the sauce consistency.

Preparation

1. Preparing the Pork:

   • Start by slicing the pork into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick and 2 inches long. This ensures that the pork cooks evenly and quickly.
   • In a bowl, marinate the pork strips with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and a dash of white pepper. Mix well and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

2. Preparing the Tofu Skin:

   • Roll up the tofu skin sheets and slice them into thin strips, similar in width to the pork strips. This helps in achieving a uniform texture and cooking time.
   • Blanch the tofu skin strips in boiling water for about 1 minute to remove any excess oil or impurities and to soften them slightly. Drain and set aside.

Cooking Steps

1. Heating the Pan:

   Heat a wok or a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.

2. Frying the Pork:

   • Once the oil is hot, add the marinated pork strips, spreading them out in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and slightly crispy. This locks in the juices and adds a delightful caramelized flavor.
   • Remove the pork strips from the pan and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

3. Sautéing Aromatics:

   In the same pan, leave about 1 tablespoon of oil and reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely chopped garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.

   

4. Adding the Tofu Skin:

   Add the blanched tofu skin strips to the pan, stirring gently to coat them with the aromatic oils. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the tofu skin to absorb the flavors of the garlic and ginger.

5. Combining Ingredients:

   Return the fried pork strips to the pan, spreading them out evenly. Pour in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Shaoxing wine (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients and coat them evenly with the sauce.

6. Adjusting Sauce Consistency:

   Add the chicken stock or water, depending on your preference for sauce thickness. Stir in the sesame oil and let the mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

7. Thickening the Sauce:

   In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with an equal amount of water to create a slurry. Gradually pour this slurry into the simmering dish, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

8. Tasting and Seasoning:

   

   Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Remember, the soy sauce and oyster sauce already provide a significant amount of flavor, so be cautious with additional salt.

9. Garnishing and Serving:

   Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions for garnish. Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by steamed rice or your favorite side dish.

Tips and Tricks

• Marinating the Pork: Marinating the pork not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it more enjoyable to eat.
• Blanching the Tofu Skin: Blanching helps to remove any unwanted flavors or textures from the tofu skin and prepares it for better absorption of the sauce.
• Controlling Heat: It’s crucial to maintain a consistent heat throughout the cooking process to avoid burning the aromatics or overcooking the pork and tofu skin.
• Sauce Consistency: The use of cornstarch slurry is a traditional method in Chinese cooking to thicken sauces. Be careful not to add too much, as it can make the sauce gluey.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even stir-fried vegetables. It can also be served as part of a larger Chinese banquet.

Conclusion

Shredded Pork with Tofu Skin is a dish that embodies the essence of Chinese home cooking – simple, flavorful, and satisfying. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen, bringing a touch of authenticity to your meal. Whether you’re serving it to family and friends or enjoying it as a comforting meal for one, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you longing for more. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start cooking – your culinary journey to mastering Shredded Pork with Tofu Skin awaits!