Savory Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly You Can’t Resist

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

Picture this: a chilly evening, and you enter the kitchen to a warm, inviting aroma that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. That s the magic of Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly, or Hong Shao Rou a dish that marries sweetness and umami in a way that feels like a big, comforting hug.

I discovered this gem during a casual dinner party with friends, where the conversation flowed as smoothly as the rich, dark sauce that glistens on the tender pork. With just six ingredients, this indulgent recipe might appear simple, but trust me, the layers of flavor explode on your palate, making it a perfect centerpiece for any occasion.

Whether you re looking to impress a gathered crowd or simply savor a comforting meal at home, this dish shines as a marvelous treat that pays homage to traditional Chinese cuisine. So, let s roll up our sleeves and create a delicious feast that warms the heart and soul!

Why is Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly irresistible?

Irresistible depth: The layer of flavors in this dish creates a profile that s both rich and complex, elevating any meal.
Easy to master: With just six ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create a stunning dish without stress.
Crowd-pleasing delight: Whether it s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pork belly promises to be a highlight, satisfying everyone s cravings.
Perfect for variations: Add your twist with squid, hard-boiled eggs, or tofu for a delightful spin on this classic.
Impressive presentation: The glossy sauce draping over tender pork makes for a visually stunning centerpiece on your dining table.
A cultural experience: This dish invites you to explore the rich traditions of Shanghai cuisine while creating unforgettable memories with every bite.

Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly Ingredients

For the Pork

• Lean, skin-on pork belly Look for thicker strips with a balanced ratio of meat to fat for the best flavor and texture.
• Water (2-3 cups) The amount depends on your cooking vessel, ensuring it mostly covers the pork during braising.

For the Sauce

• Oil (2 tablespoons) Use a neutral oil like canola for sautéing the pork without altering the dish s flavor.
• Rock sugar (2 tablespoons) This ingredient adds sweetness and aids in caramelization; granulated sugar can be used as a substitute.
• Shaoxing wine (1/3 cup) A key component for enhancing flavor; if unavailable, dry cooking sherry works well in a pinch.
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons) Adds the essential salty and umami notes that complement the pork.
• Dark soy sauce (1 tablespoon) Important for color and richness; look for this to achieve an authentic Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly experience.

How to Make Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly

1. Prep Pork: Begin by cutting the pork belly into 3/4-inch thick pieces. Boil them in water for about 1 minute to remove impurities, then rinse well and set aside.

2. Sauté Pork: In a heated wok, add the oil and rock sugar. Allow the sugar to melt and caramelize before adding the pork belly, cooking until it s lightly browned for about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add Liquids: Lower the heat and pour in the Shaoxing wine. Let it cook for about 2 minutes before adding both soy sauces and enough water to just cover the pork.

4. Simmer: Cover the wok and let it simmer over medium heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally, adding more water as needed, until the pork becomes tender and delicious.

5. Finish Sauce: Uncover the wok and increase the heat to reduce the sauce, cooking until it thickens into a glossy coating that beautifully clings to the pork.

Optional: Serve over steamed rice for a delightful complete meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly

Feel free to personalize your dish with these exciting variations that will add your unique flair to this classic recipe.

• Spicy Twist: Add a tablespoon of chili paste or fresh red chilies for a fiery kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.

• Egg Boost: Hard-boiled eggs can be added during the simmering phase, soaking up the rich flavors and enhancing the dish s protein content. These eggs become a delightful, savory treat!

• Tofu Puffs: For a vegetarian twist, introduce tofu puffs to the braising pot. They absorb all the delicious sauce, providing a soft and satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the pork.

• Seafood Addition: Toss in squid or shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking for an unexpected seafood twist, balancing the richness with a hint of brininess.

• Sweet Spice: Incorporate a star anise or a small piece of cinnamon stick while simmering for warm, aromatic flavors that deepen the dish s complexity.

• Citrus Zing: A squeeze of orange or mandarin juice at the end will brighten up flavors, cutting through the richness with a refreshing hint.

• Vegetable Medley: Throw in sliced carrots or shiitake mushrooms during the simmer for extra nutrition and a satisfying chew that accentuates the dish s heartiness.

• Herb Infusion: Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro before serving for a burst of freshness that beautifully contrasts the dish s deep flavors.

What to Serve with Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly?

Create a memorable dining experience that beautifully balances the richness of this indulgent dish.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy rice soaks up the glossy sauce, providing a perfect, neutral backdrop for the flavorful pork.

• Sautéed Bok Choy: This vibrant green vegetable introduces a crisp texture and subtle bitterness, balancing the dish s rich sweetness effectively. Serve it tossed in a hint of garlic for extra flavor!

• Chinese Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, tangy salad provides a crunchy contrast, bringing brightness to the hearty pork belly while cleansing the palate.

• Egg Drop Soup: The light and delicate flavors of this comforting soup make it a great counterpart, warming the soul and enhancing the overall meal experience.

• Chilled Chinese Noodles: Toss these with sesame oil and scallions for a cool, nutty side that complements the pork s deep flavors. The texture is delightfully chewy, adding dimension to the meal.

• Sweet Red Bean Paste Mochi: For dessert, these delightful treats offer a sweet, chewy finish that echoes the pork s sweet-savoriness, creating a lovely end to your feast.

Expert Tips for Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly

Perfect Pork Choice: Select a lean, skin-on pork belly with a good meat-to-fat ratio for optimal tenderness and flavor.

Sugar Secrets: Use rock sugar for sweetness and caramelization; regular sugar can be used, but results may vary.

Adequate Sauce Coverage: Ensure the pork is mostly submerged in the braising liquid for even cooking and rich flavor in your Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly.

Consistent Stirring: Stir occasionally, especially towards the end of cooking, to prevent sticking and burning when reducing the sauce.

Serve with Style: Present this sumptuous dish with steamed rice and vegetables for a beautifully balanced meal; clay pots add an authentic touch!

Storage Tips for Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly

Room Temperature: Serve fresh for the best flavor, but if needed, you can leave out any uneaten pork belly for up to 2 hours before refrigerating.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious on subsequent days!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture and sauce consistency.

Make Ahead Options

These Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly can be prepared ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can confidently cook the entire dish in advance; simply refrigerate it for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage. To maintain quality, allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container. When you re ready to enjoy, reheat over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. For added flavor, briefly simmer the sauce to restore its glossy finish before serving. By prepping ahead, you savor the convenience of a delicious homemade meal without the last-minute rush!

Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly Recipe FAQs

What type of pork belly should I use for Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly?
Absolutely, you want to choose lean, skin-on pork belly with a good balance of meat to fat. Look for thicker strips, as they provide the rich texture you desire. If it has some marbling, that s even better, enhancing the flavor and tenderness of your dish.

How do I store leftover Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly?
Store your leftover braised pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. On those days, the flavors actually intensify, creating a delightful dish that s just as good a second time around. For longer storage, freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months just remember to thaw it out in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Can I freeze Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the fully cooked pork belly in an airtight, freezer-safe container. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to avoid freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.

What should I do if my sauce isn t thickening?
If your sauce isn t thickening as expected, don t worry! Here s a simple step-by-step solution: First, ensure you re cooking the sauce uncovered to allow steam to escape. Increase the heat slightly and stir occasionally. If you still find your sauce too thin, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. This should help it thicken beautifully!

Are there any dietary considerations for Shanghai-Style Braised Pork Belly?
This dish features ingredients that may be high in sodium and fat, making it best enjoyed occasionally, especially if you re keeping an eye on those dietary needs. If you have allergies to soy or wine, consider using gluten-free soy sauce and omit the Shaoxing wine or replace it with a splash of broth. As for pets, avoid sharing this dish with them, as the high fat and seasoning content isn t suitable for their diets.