Yu Gan Spicy Pork with Chili (余干辣椒炒肉) is a signature dish from Yu Gan County in Jiangxi Province, showcasing the region’s distinct culinary style. The dish features Yu Gan Fengshu chili, a local variety with a 600-year history, which has been prized as a specialty and even offered as tribute to the imperial court during the Ming and Qing dynasties. As a representative dish of the Rao Bang cuisine, a branch of Jiangxi cuisine, Yu Gan Spicy Pork with Chili highlights the bold flavors and unique regional characteristics of Jiangxi’s food culture.
Ingredients and Preparation Process
Key Ingredients:
- Pork Belly: The pork belly is sliced into thin pieces, providing a rich, tender texture.
- Yu Gan Fengshu Chili: These local, flavorful chilis are washed, deseeded, and added to provide a mild heat.
- Other Ingredients: Fermented black beans (dou chi), minced ginger, minced garlic, starch, cooking wine, light soy sauce, salt, and chicken essence.
Cooking Steps:
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the pork belly and blanch it in hot water to remove impurities. Wash and deseed the Yu Gan Fengshu chili, and prepare the ginger, garlic, and fermented black beans.
- Marinate the Pork: Coat the pork slices with starch and water to tenderize the meat, making it more succulent after cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a wok, heat a small amount of oil to medium heat, then add the fermented black beans, minced ginger, and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir-Fry the Pork: Add the marinated pork slices to the wok and stir-fry until the edges are slightly crispy.
- Add Chili and Seasoning: Pour in cooking wine and add the prepared chili peppers. Continue stir-frying, ensuring the flavors meld.
- Final Seasoning and Plating: Add light soy sauce, salt, and chicken essence to taste. Stir well and serve hot.
Taste and Flavor
Yu Gan Spicy Pork with Chili is characterized by its balanced combination of “spicy on the lips, but not too hot on the heart.” The heat from the chili is aromatic rather than overpowering, and it perfectly complements the rich, tender pork. The pork slices are succulent and juicy, while the sautéed chili peppers add a smoky, fragrant heat without being overwhelming. The flavor is rich and savory, with a satisfying depth that draws from the fermented black beans and soy sauce. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of spicy, savory, and meaty goodness, making it a delightful and irresistible dish for anyone who enjoys bold, flavorful cuisine.
