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The moment the savory aroma of slow-cooked pork belly wafts through my kitchen, I’m transported to a bustling street market in China, where this beloved dish is celebrated for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. Creating Pork Belly Sticky Rice isn’t just about combining ingredients; it’s about crafting a memory that fills both your belly and your heart. Perfect for Lunar New Year or any gathering, each succulent bite melds the tender, caramelized pork with the satisfying chew of sticky rice, while a hint of sweetness from Chinese sausage elevates the experience. With the fresh crunch of bok choy and the umami from shiitake mushrooms, this dish is a delightful feast that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds! Let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying recipe that promises to bring everyone together around the table.

Why is Pork Belly Sticky Rice a must-try?

Rich Umami Flavor: The combination of slow-cooked pork belly and fragrant rice creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Comforting Dish: This recipe embodies warmth, making it perfect for family gatherings or festive celebrations.

Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of bok choy and shiitake mushrooms enhance the dish’s appeal, making it a showstopper at any table.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with different proteins or veggies, allowing you to tailor this dish to your preference.

Easy Preparation: With simple steps and help from a slow cooker, you can impress your loved ones without hours in the kitchen.

Experience the incredible flavors of this recipe that will surely evoke joy and nostalgia in every bite!

Pork Belly Sticky Rice Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this irresistible Pork Belly Sticky Rice dish.

For the Rice

Sweet Rice – Provides the dish’s sticky texture; substitute with glutinous or sushi rice if unavailable.

For the Pork

Thick Pork Belly Slices – Adds rich flavor and meaty texture; use rindless slices for better tenderness.
Chicken Broth – Adds depth of flavor; a great alternative is chicken stock.
Ginger – Enhances fragrance and warmth; always go for fresh ginger for optimal flavor.
Garlic – Provides aromatic and savory undertones; fresh garlic is preferred for the best taste.
Mirin – Adds a hint of sweetness; can be replaced with sake or omitted for a less sweet option.

For the Sauce

Granulated Sugar – Balances the flavors; brown sugar works well for a deeper flavor.
Brown Sugar – Used in the pork belly sauce for sweetness; may substitute with white sugar if needed.
Dark Soy Sauce – Adds color and richness; regular soy sauce can be used, but note it will alter the flavor a bit.
Lemongrass Paste – Introduces bright citrusy notes; fresh lemongrass, finely chopped, can be used if available.
Chinese Five Spice – Provides a unique aromatic flavor profile; feel free to use ground spices if you don’t have this on hand.
Kosher Salt & White Pepper – For seasoning; adjust to taste as you go along.

For Sautéing

Vegetable Oil – Used for frying and sautéing; olive oil is a fine substitute if needed.
Green Onions – Adds freshness and crunch; use both white and green parts for added flavor and color.
Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms – Contributes umami and texture; any mushrooms like button mushrooms can work too.
Chinese Sausage Links – Adds a sweet and savory flavor; can be easily replaced with any cooked sausage.
Bok Choy – Provides a crisp texture; feel free to swap with spinach or kale if preferred.
Shaoxing Wine – Enhances the dish’s flavor depth; dry sherry or cooking wine can be a great alternative.
Sesame Oil – Adds nuttiness and aroma; can be omitted if you prefer a less intense taste.
Pinch of White Pepper – Adds subtle heat; can be replaced with regular black pepper if that’s what you have.

Dive into this easy and delicious Pork Belly Sticky Rice recipe that promises to bring warmth and joy to your dining table!

How to Make Pork Belly Sticky Rice

Soak Rice: The day before, soak the sweet rice in water for at least 6 hours, allowing it to absorb moisture and achieve the desired sticky texture.
Prepare Pork Belly: Cut the thick pork belly into 3-inch pieces. Slow cook with chicken broth, grated ginger, minced garlic, mirin, and granulated sugar on high for 3.5-4 hours until it’s tender and flavorful.
Make Sauces: In separate bowls, mix the ingredients for the pork belly sauce and sticky rice sauce. This will ensure each sauce retains its unique flavor profile.
Steam Rice: Drain the soaked rice and place it in a steamer lined with parchment paper. Steam over simmering water for about 25-30 minutes until tender and translucent.
Sear Pork Belly: Pat the cooked pork belly dry, then sear it in a hot pan until it’s golden brown on the outside. Coat it generously with the pork belly sauce to add a delicious glaze.
Sauté Vegetables: Use the same pan to sauté garlic, ginger, chopped green onions, sliced mushrooms, chopped Chinese sausage, and bok choy until they’re cooked and fragrant. Then, remove from the pan and set aside.
Combine Rice and Ingredients: Add the cooked rice to the pan, pour in the sticky rice sauce, and mix well. Return the pork and sautéed vegetables to the pan, add the remaining broth, and cook covered for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through and combined.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust with more kosher salt or white pepper if desired before serving.

Optional: Garnish with additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Pork Belly Sticky Rice?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement this comforting dish.

Steamed Bok Choy: Adds a fresh and crisp texture that beautifully contrasts the sticky rice and rich pork belly. The slight bitterness of bok choy balances the sweetness of the dish.
Chinese Cucumber Salad: This refreshing side features crisp cucumbers and a tangy dressing. It cleanses the palate between bites and offers a light crunch to balance the rich flavors of the main dish.
Garlic Soy Sauce Noodles: Smooth noodles tossed in garlic and soy sauce create a lovely harmony with the pork belly, adding a savory, noodle-like texture that feels right at home next to sticky rice.
Hot and Sour Soup: A warm bowl of hot and sour soup brings vibrant flavors and a soothing touch. Its hint of heat and tang contrasts with the comforting sweetness of the sticky rice.
Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chunks: Add fun and fruity sweetness to your meal. The juicy pineapple serves as a refreshing palate cleanser that lifts the rich flavors of the pork belly stickiness.
Chrysanthemum Tea: This fragrant, floral tea is a traditional accompaniment that soothes and refreshes, enhancing the overall meal experience with its delicate aroma and taste.
Sesame Balls: For a sweet ending, serve these chewy treats filled with sweet bean paste. Their crispy exterior and soft interior create a wonderful textural finale after enjoying pork belly sticky rice.

Storage Tips for Pork Belly Sticky Rice

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Pork Belly Sticky Rice out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while preserving moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze Pork Belly Sticky Rice for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain that delightful sticky texture without drying out the dish.

Expert Tips for Pork Belly Sticky Rice

Soak the Rice: Overnight soaking is key for achieving that perfectly sticky texture; don’t skip this step!
Slow Cooker Magic: Using a slow cooker not only ensures even cooking but also lets flavors meld beautifully together—less stress for you!
Avoid Crowding: When sautéing, avoid overcrowding the pan; it can prevent the ingredients from browning properly, impacting flavor.
Mind the Sauce: Mix sauces gently to balance flavors; be careful not to overpower the delicate notes of your Pork Belly Sticky Rice.
Cooling is Crucial: Allow the pork belly to cool slightly before slicing; this helps in achieving clean and neat cuts for presentation.

Pork Belly Sticky Rice Variations

Feel free to take this delightful dish in new directions and make it your own!

Chicken Thighs: Substitute thick pork belly with chicken thighs for a leaner, lighter option full of tender juiciness. Each bite will still be rich and satisfying.
Quinoa: Swap sticky rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative that still keeps the comforting essence of the dish.
Mixed Vegetables: Experiment with vibrant veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color, flavor, and nutrition to every bite. Your family will love the crunch!
Herbed Rice: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the rice for an aromatic twist that enhances its flavor profile, making each mouthful a fragrant delight.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil to amp up the heat level for those who enjoy a spicy kick. It’s sure to excite taste buds!
Pork Alternatives: Use any cooked sausage beyond Chinese sausage, like Italian or Spanish chorizo, for exciting flavor variations that will surprise your palate with new nuances.
Sweet Potato: Add cubed roasted sweet potatoes into the mix for a touch of sweetness and added texture, creating a delightful contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
Broth Swap: Instead of chicken broth, try using vegetable broth to enhance the veggie flavors, perfect for a vegetarian approach without compromising on taste.

Let your creativity shine, and enjoy the delightful journey of flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Pork Belly Sticky Rice preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy nights! You can soak the sweet rice up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to achieve the ideal sticky texture. Additionally, cook the pork belly and sauté the vegetables up to 3 days ahead; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their delicious flavors and textures. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the pork belly and vegetables in a pan, and steam the soaked rice until tender. This way, you’ll have a satisfying, restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort, making it a breeze to enjoy this delectable Pork Belly Sticky Rice with family and friends!

Pork Belly Sticky Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best sweet rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing sweet rice, look for glutinous or sushi rice, as both provide that sought-after sticky texture. Ensure the grains are plump and glossy, without any dark spots or damage. This will result in a beautifully sticky end product that complements the savory flavors of the dish.

What is the best way to store leftover Pork Belly Sticky Rice?
After enjoying the delicious Pork Belly Sticky Rice, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last up to 3 days. To reheat, use a stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to restore some moisture and maintain the dish’s delightful sticky consistency — trust me, it makes all the difference!

Can I freeze Pork Belly Sticky Rice?
Yes! To freeze, let the dish cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little chicken broth to revive its original texture.

How can I troubleshoot if my sticky rice isn’t sticking together properly?
If your sticky rice turns out too dry or crumbly, it may not have soaked long enough before cooking. Make sure to soak it for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. Also, increase the steam time slightly to ensure it’s perfectly tender and retains that delicious, sticky texture.

Is this recipe suitable for people with specific dietary restrictions?
While this Pork Belly Sticky Rice recipe contains gluten and pork, there are ways to customize it! For gluten-free options, substitute the soy sauce with tamari. If you’re catering to dietary restrictions regarding pork, consider using chicken thighs or tofu as a leaner protein alternative. Always double-check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs, especially if allergies are a concern.

How can I enhance the nutritional value of this dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in additional vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach to increase the fiber and vitamin content. For a lower-carb option, replace the sticky rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice, maintaining that heartwarming flavor while adjusting for dietary preferences!