Chinese Food

Introduction

In the vast culinary landscape of China, traditional dishes often blend flavors and textures in ways that delight the senses and nourish the soul. One such dish that stands out is Preserved Pork with Dried Asparagus Lettuce (or simply, “Preserved Pork and Dried Lettuce”). This hearty and flavorful meal combines the savory richness of preserved pork, known as “lourou” in Chinese, with the crisp, slightly sweet taste of dried asparagus lettuce. It’s a dish that brings together the best of traditional Chinese preservation techniques with fresh, dried ingredients to create a meal that is both comforting and satisfying.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making Preserved Pork with Dried Asparagus Lettuce. From preparing the ingredients to cooking the dish, we’ll cover every detail to ensure you can recreate this delicious meal at home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook eager to explore new recipes, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to master this traditional Chinese dish.

Ingredients Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s first gather and prepare the necessary ingredients:

1. Preserved Pork (Lourou): This is the star ingredient of our dish. Preserved pork is made by salting and drying pork, often with additional spices, to preserve it for long periods. It adds a unique, umami-rich flavor to dishes. You can find preserved pork at Asian markets or online. For this recipe, you’ll need about 200 grams (7 ounces) of sliced preserved pork.

2. Dried Asparagus Lettuce: Dried asparagus lettuce, or dried lettuce stems, are a common ingredient in Chinese cuisine. They add a crunchy texture and mild sweetness to dishes. You can find dried asparagus lettuce at Asian markets or make your own by drying fresh asparagus lettuce stems in a food dehydrator. For this recipe, you’ll need about 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of dried asparagus lettuce.

3. Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a pungent, aromatic flavor to the dish. You’ll need about 3 cloves, minced.

4. Ginger: Fresh ginger provides a warm, spicy undertone. Peel and mince about 2 tablespoons of ginger.

5. Green Onions: Green onions add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color. You’ll need about 3 stalks, chopped.

6. Oyster Sauce: Oyster sauce is a thick, savory condiment made from oysters, soy sauce, and sugar. It adds a rich, umami flavor to dishes. You’ll need about 2 tablespoons.

7. Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce adds saltiness and a subtle soy flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon.

8. Shaoxing Wine: Shaoxing wine is a Chinese rice wine that adds depth and complexity to dishes. If you can’t find Shaoxing wine, you can substitute it with dry sherry. Use about 1 tablespoon.

9. Sugar: A pinch of sugar helps balance the flavors, especially the saltiness of the preserved pork.

10. Vegetable Oil: For cooking, you’ll need about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.

11. Water: A small amount of water may be needed to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

    

12. Salt: Taste and adjust with salt as needed.

Cooking Instructions

Now that we have all our ingredients prepared, let’s move on to the cooking process.

Step 1: Prepare the Dried Asparagus Lettuce

1. If you’re using homemade dried asparagus lettuce, ensure it’s fully dried before using. If it’s store-bought, check for any debris and rinse it briefly under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

2. Soak the dried asparagus lettuce in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften it. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Preserved Pork

1. Rinse the preserved pork slices under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Cut the preserved pork into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic and Ginger

1. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.

   

2. Add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.

Step 4: Cook the Preserved Pork

Add the preserved pork strips to the wok. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until they start to brown and release their flavorful oils.

Step 5: Add the Dried Asparagus Lettuce

Add the softened, drained dried asparagus lettuce to the wok. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, until the lettuce is heated through and slightly crispy.

Step 6: Season the Dish

1. Pour in the Shaoxing wine, stirring to deglaze the wok and incorporate the wine into the dish.

2. Add the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and a pinch of sugar. Stir well to combine.

3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Add the Green Onions

Finally, add the chopped green onions. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds until the onions are wilted and fragrant.

Step 8: Serve

1. Transfer the Preserved Pork with Dried Asparagus Lettuce to a serving dish.

2. Garnish with additional chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired.

Conclusion

Preserved Pork with Dried Asparagus Lettuce is a dish that combines the best of traditional Chinese flavors and techniques. The savory richness of the preserved pork pairs perfectly with the crisp, slightly sweet texture of the dried asparagus lettuce. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can recreate this delicious meal at home, impressing your family and friends with your culinary skills.

This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be served as a main course with rice or noodles, or as a side dish to complement other Chinese meals. The preserved pork and dried asparagus lettuce can also be used in various other recipes, allowing you to explore new flavors and textures in your kitchen.

As you cook this dish, remember to enjoy the process and savor the flavors as they develop. Cooking is not just about creating meals; it’s about nurturing your body, mind, and soul. With each ingredient you chop, each spice you add, and each stir-fry you make, you’re creating a dish that reflects your love and passion for food. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start cooking—your taste buds are waiting!