Guo You Rou (过油肉), also known as “fried oil meat,” is a classic dish from Shanxi Province with a deep local flavor, often referred to as a signature taste of the “Three Jin” region (Shanxi’s historical name). This dish has a fascinating history, with several theories about its origin. One widely accepted story suggests that it originated in the Ming Dynasty in Pingding (now Pingding County, Yangquan, Shanxi), where it was originally a dish prepared for the imperial court. Over time, it spread from the court to government officials and eventually to the general public, becoming a beloved dish in Shanxi and beyond.
Preparation Method
- Selecting Ingredients: The main ingredient for Guo You Rou is pork tenderloin, known for its tender texture and rich nutritional value. The dish also features vegetables like garlic scapes and black fungus (wood ear mushrooms) to add color and texture. Depending on personal preferences, ingredients such as cabbage or potatoes can also be substituted.
- Marinating: The pork tenderloin is sliced thinly and marinated with egg white, salt, and dry starch to ensure the meat remains tender and doesn’t fall apart during cooking.
- Frying: The marinated pork slices are then fried in hot oil over medium heat. This process helps the meat form a crisp outer layer while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The goal is to achieve a golden, crispy texture.
- Stir-frying: After frying, the pork slices are removed from the oil and set aside. In a separate pan, a bit of oil is used to stir-fry scallions, ginger, and garlic until fragrant. Then, the fried meat is added and mixed evenly. Soy sauce and vinegar (often Liangfen’s three-year-old aged vinegar from Shanxi) are added to the dish, followed by a final stir-fry. The vegetables are added, and a bit of water and salt are added to enhance the flavor. Finally, a small amount of cornstarch slurry is used to thicken the sauce, and the dish is ready to be served.
Taste and Characteristics
Guo You Rou boasts a beautiful golden color and a satisfying combination of crispy and tender textures. The vinegar not only helps to remove any unpleasant odors but also makes the meat more tender and smooth. The dish is a perfect balance of savory, sour, and slightly sweet flavors. The use of both frying and simmering techniques makes it easy to digest and enhances its flavor profile. Additionally, Guo You Rou is packed with high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious meal that provides essential nutrients to the body.
