Xiao Suo Rou, or Crispy Sichuan Pork Bites, is a fiery and flavorful dish that perfectly embodies the bold spirit of Sichuan cuisine. These addictive little nuggets boast a shatteringly crisp exterior, giving way to tender, juicy pork within. The secret lies in a complex marinade that infuses the meat with a delightful blend of garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and fiery chilies, creating a symphony of sweet, sour, spicy, and numbing sensations. This isn't your average pork dish; it's a culinary adventure for your taste buds.
Prepare to be amazed by the incredible depth of flavor and satisfying texture of these pork bites. From the initial marinade to the final satisfying crunch, each step is carefully explained to ensure your success. Ready to embark on this culinary journey and create your own batch of irresistible Xiao Suo Rou? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Bowl
- Wok
- Spice grinder
- Deep fryer or large pot
- Thermometer (optional)
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder: 500 grams
- Minced garlic: 1 tablespoon
- Minced ginger: 2 teaspoons
- 5-spice powder: 1 teaspoon
- Chinese cooking wine: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon (for spice powder)
- Soy sauce: 0.5 tablespoon
- Baking soda: 0.33 teaspoon
- Red dried chilies: 0.5 cup
- Sichuan peppercorn (Hua Jiao): 1 tablespoon
- White peppercorn: 0.5 teaspoon
- Sesame seeds (raw): 1.5 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon
- Cumin seeds: 0.5 teaspoon + 0.5 teaspoon
- Dried orange peel: small piece
- All-purpose flour: 30 grams
- Sweet potato starch: 120 grams
- Baking powder: 0.5 teaspoon
- Egg: 1 large
- Water: approx. 90 grams
- Vegetable oil: 25 grams + for deep frying
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork and Marinade
- Cut pork shoulder into bite-sized pieces.
- Marinate pork with garlic, ginger, 5-spice powder, cooking wine, salt, soy sauce, and baking soda for 30 minutes.
Step 2. Create the Flavorful Spice Blend
- Stir-fry chilies, Sichuan peppercorn, white peppercorn, sesame seeds, cumin seeds, and orange peel until fragrant (be careful not to burn).
- Grind the spice mixture and add salt and sugar.
- Optionally, roast sesame and cumin seeds separately and add to the spice powder.
Step 3. Batter and Deep Fry the Pork (Two Stages)
- Whisk together flour, sweet potato starch, baking powder, egg, water, and oil until smooth.
- Coat the marinated pork with batter.
- Deep fry pork in batches at 370°F (188°C) for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until cooked through. This is the first fry.
- Let the pork rest for 20 minutes.
- Double fry the pork at 400°F (204°C) for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
Step 4. Serve
- Drain on paper towels and serve with the spice powder.
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- Adjust chili quantity based on spice preference.
- Use a small amount of Sichuan peppercorn initially to gauge your tolerance for its numbing effect.
- If using roasted sesame seeds and cumin, skip the stir-frying step in making the Chan Yeol.
- You can substitute sweet potato starch with potato or tapioca starch.
- Don't overcrowd the wok when frying; fry in batches.
- Frozen, pre-fried pork can be double-fried directly without defrosting.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pork for this recipe?
While pork belly is traditionally used for its rich flavor and fat content, you can substitute with pork shoulder or even tenderloin. Just be aware that leaner cuts might require adjustments to cooking time to prevent dryness.
2. How can I make the pork bites extra crispy?
Ensure your pork is completely dry before frying. A double-fry method (briefly frying at a lower temperature, then a final fry at a higher temperature) will help achieve maximum crispiness. Also, don't overcrowd the pan during frying.
Congratulations! You've now mastered the art of making delicious and authentic Crispy Sichuan Pork Bites. These flavorful morsels are perfect for sharing with friends and family, or enjoying as a satisfying solo treat. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible results.