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There’s a unique comfort that comes from a dish simmering on the stove, filling your home with enticing aromas. The moment I first tasted Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce, or Tau Yew Bak, was a revelation; the tender meat soaked in a rich, savory broth took me back to cherished family gatherings. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction, perfect for those who crave authentic flavors over fast food.

As cooler evenings approach, there’s nothing quite like the gratifying feeling of serving up a bowl of this delightful dish. Each bite offers a savory-sweet symphony that pairs beautifully with a steaming bowl of rice, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. And if you’re looking to switch it up, don’t worry—I’ve included tips for meat-free versions and other creative adaptations that ensure everyone at the table can indulge in this comfort food classic. Let’s dive in and discover how to create a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart!

Why Love Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce?

Comforting and hearty, this Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that brings back nostalgic family meals. Authentic flavors shine through with each bite, blending sweet and savory notes that are irresistibly delicious. Versatile in its adaptations, it’s simple to customize for meat-free alternatives, ensuring no one misses out. Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights, all while delivering restaurant-quality taste at home. For more ideas on making it even better, check out my tips for enhancing your home cooking skills!

Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce Ingredients

Note: Gather these flavorful ingredients to create the irresistible Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce!

For the Broth
• Water – Base of the broth; use less if cooking in a slow cooker.
• Soy Sauce – Essential for umami flavor; be sure to use regular soy sauce.
• Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap Manis) – Adds sweetness and depth; crucial for the dish’s signature flavor.
• Dark Soy Sauce – Provides color and additional richness; adjust to achieve your desired darkness.
• Salt – To taste; enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

For the Aromatics
• Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; lightly pound to release its oils.
• White Peppercorn – For a mild peppery kick; crack before using to unlock its full flavor.

For the Main Ingredients
• Pork Belly – The star of the dish; provides a tender, juicy texture; seek a good fat-to-meat ratio (about 50/50).
• Hard-Boiled Eggs – Adds protein and texture; can be substituted with more tofu or omitted for a meat-free version.
• Fried Firm Tofu – Provides balance and texture; can substitute with more soft tofu or omit for a lighter dish.

How to Make Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce

Prepare Ingredients: Start by lightly pounding the garlic to free its fragrant oils and cut the pork belly into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps the meat absorb all those delicious flavors later!
Boil Water: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. This will serve as the base for our rich broth.
Add Aromatics: Once boiling, add the pounded garlic, the cubed pork belly, and the cracked white peppercorns. This blend of spices will infuse the broth with aromatic goodness.
Incorporate Main Ingredients: Gently stir in the hard-boiled eggs, fried tofu, soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, and dark soy sauce. The mixture should start to create a beautiful, flavorful broth.
Braise: Lower the heat to medium and let it cook for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork is tender enough to almost melt in your mouth. Taste and adjust the salt to your liking.
Simmer: Keep the pot on low heat and let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes. This allows all those flavors to deepen and meld together perfectly.
Serve: Dish out your succulent braised pork belly hot, ideally accompanied by a steaming bowl of white rice. The combo is simply heavenly!

Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra touch of freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce

Choose Quality Meat: Select pork belly with a balanced fat-to-meat ratio. This ensures tenderness and prevents the dish from becoming too greasy.
Crack Those Peppercorns: Always crack the white peppercorns before using them. It releases essential oils and enhances the flavor profile of your Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce.
Slow Cooker Benefit: If using a slow cooker, reduce the liquid quantity, as it retains moisture well. This will result in a rich and concentrated broth.
Enhance Flavor Overnight: Prepare the dish a day in advance and let it sit in the fridge overnight. The flavors develop beautifully and improve significantly by reheating.
Watch for Foam: Be careful to skim any foam or scum that forms during cooking. This keeps your broth clearer and more visually appealing.

What to Serve with Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce?

There’s nothing quite like a comforting meal that warms both the heart and the palette, and serving this delightful dish can enhance the experience.

Steamed White Rice: The perfect accompaniment, it soaks up the rich soy sauce broth and complements the tender pork belly splendidly.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A rainbow of veggies like bok choy and bell peppers adds a fresh crunch and contrasting flavors, balancing the dish beautifully. Their vibrant colors and crisp textures brighten the plate.
Pickled Cucumbers: Tangy and refreshing, these provide a lovely contrast to the savory richness of the pork, cutting through the fat and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: If you love the umami goodness, serve extra eggs on the side. They’re delightful dipped in the broth and add a nice touch of protein.
Ginger Tea: A warm mug of ginger tea can cleanse the palate and perfectly complement the flavors of the dish, while also aiding digestion.
Taiwanese Guabao Buns: Transform your leftovers into fun guabao sandwiches, where fluffy buns cradle the succulent pork, creating a delicious handheld treat that’s both satisfying and convenient.
Chili Oil: A drizzle of chili oil can elevate your dish with a kick, providing a spicy contrast that enhances the savory sweetness of the Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, treat yourself to a plate of sweet mango sticky rice, a delightful way to finish off your meal with tropical flavors that offer sweetness without overwhelming richness.

Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce Variations

Feel free to elevate your Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce with these exciting twists that will coax out your creativity and satisfy every taste bud!

Meat-Free:
Swap the pork belly for additional firm or fried tofu. This keeps the dish hearty while delighting plant-based eaters.
Mushroom Medley:
Add dried shiitake mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Just soak them beforehand, then toss them in along with the other ingredients.
Chicken Swap:
Use chicken drumsticks instead of pork. They’ll cook faster and still soak up that delicious broth—just adjust the cooking time.
Sweet Potato:
Incorporate diced sweet potatoes for a delightful sweetness and additional texture. Their creamy consistency mirrors the richness of the pork.
Spicy Kick:
Add sliced chili peppers during braising for a gentle heat that balances the savory tastes. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for spice.
Savory Miso:
Include a spoonful of miso paste for an umami boost. Blend it with broth before adding to ensure it dissolves properly.
Extra Eggs:
For even more protein, add an extra hard-boiled egg or two! These will absorb flavors beautifully and keep everyone satisfied.
Rich Coconut:
Stir in a bit of coconut milk to achieve a creamy, tropical twist while simmering. This pairs surprisingly well with the savory elements!

Storage Tips for Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it has completely cooled down before sealing to maintain texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help restore moisture.

Serving Suggestions: To keep the experience authentic, serve the reheated pork belly over freshly steamed rice, allowing the rich flavors to shine through again!

Make Ahead Options

These Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the pork belly in the soy sauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat for even better taste. Additionally, feel free to boil the eggs and fry the tofu a day ahead. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine all the prepared ingredients in a pot, braise for 30 minutes on medium heat, and let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes. This method yields just as delicious results while saving precious time on busy weeknights. Don’t forget, the dish tastes even better the next day after refrigerating overnight!

Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of pork belly is best for this dish?
Absolutely! When selecting pork belly, look for a balanced fat-to-meat ratio—around 50/50. This ensures the meat remains tender and juicy while creating a rich broth. You want to avoid cuts that are too lean or too fatty, as they won’t achieve the same delightful texture in your Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce.

How should I store leftovers?
It’s quite easy! Place any leftover Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always let it cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain its delicious texture and flavors.

Can I freeze Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of water if needed to restore moisture.

What if my pork belly turns out tough?
Don’t worry; it happens! If the pork belly isn’t tender after the initial braising time, simply return it to the stovetop. Add a splash of water if necessary, then cover and simmer on low heat for an additional 15 to 30 minutes. The key is letting it cook until it’s tender and can easily be pulled apart with a fork.

Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Very much so! For a meat-free version, substitute the pork belly with additional fried tofu or firm tofu, which still provides great texture. You can also incorporate hearty veggies like potatoes or mushrooms to add depth while maintaining that comforting feel.

How long does it take for the flavors to develop?
I often find that letting the dish sit overnight in the fridge is best. As it cools, the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce. When you reheat it the next day, you’ll be able to enjoy an even richer flavor!