Name: Red-Cooked Pork with Frizzled Ginger
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 14 1/2 hr
Yield: Makes 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 cups water; 1 cup soy sauce; 1 cup Chinese rice wine or medium-dry Sherry; 1/2 cup Chinese rock sugar or packed light brown sugar; 1 bunch scallions, white parts smashed and greens reserved; 2 (1-inch-thick) pieces fresh ginger, smashed; 2 garlic cloves, smashed; 10 fresh cilantro stems (reserve leaves for garnish); 2 (4- by 1-inch) strips fresh orange zest; 2 whole star anise; 1 (5- to 6-lb) boneless pork butt, shoulder, or blade roast, tied; 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh orange zest; Accompaniment: frizzled ginger

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Red-Cooked Pork with Frizzled GingerKay Rentschler

The flavorful broth that results from cooking the pork is known in Chinese cuisine as a master sauce — save any that's left over in the freezer and use it for braising other meats, such as duck or chicken. Allowing the pork to cool overnight in the broth ensures its succulence — and because it's made ahead, this dish is ideal for entertaining.

Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 14 1/2 hr (includes chilling)

Recipe notes

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