Hebei Braised Pork Balls In Gravy Recipe

Cook Time: 50 minutes  

   Prep Time: 20 minutes

Hebei Braised Pork Balls In Gravy Ingredients

Hebei Braised Pork Balls In Gravy Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, finely chopped water chestnuts, minced white parts of the scallions, grated ginger, egg, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, toasted sesame oil, white pepper, sugar, panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup chicken stock, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch.
  2. Mix the pork mixture thoroughly by hand until it becomes sticky and well combined.
  3. With wet hands, shape the pork mixture into large balls, about the size of a golf ball (you should get 8-10 balls).
  4. Lightly dust each pork ball with extra cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
  5. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  6. Add the pork balls in batches, browning them on all sides until golden, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  7. Pour off excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  8. Add the green parts of the scallions to the pan and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  9. Pour in 2 cups chicken stock, 1 tablespoon light soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  10. Return the browned pork balls to the pan, arranging them in a single layer.
  11. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then cover and braise the pork balls over low heat for 30 minutes, turning them once halfway through.
  12. Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium. Stir the cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and slowly add it to the pan, stirring gently until the gravy thickens and becomes glossy.
  13. Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce or white pepper if needed.
  14. Transfer the pork balls and gravy to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Estimated Calories: 275, Servings: 4

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About Braised Pork Balls In Gravy Recipe

If you're searching for the best recipe for Braised Pork Balls In Gravy from Hebei, you've just hit the jackpot! I've made this dish so many times, my family jokes that I could roll pork balls in my sleep. The secret to this authentic, homemade recipe is all about using the right ingredients and not being shy with the gravy. Trust me, once you learn how to make these tasty pork balls, you'll never look at meatballs the same way again. It's so easy and quick, you'll wonder why you ever bothered with takeout.
Let's talk about the simple steps and some of my favorite tips. First, make sure your pork mixture is well-seasoned-this is key for that delicious, mouthwatering flavor. I always use fresh ginger and a splash of soy sauce for that perfect Hebei touch. When you're shaping the balls, don't worry if they're not perfectly round; rustic is in! The best part is watching them simmer in that rich, savory gravy. The aroma alone will have your neighbors peeking over the fence, wondering what's cooking.
If you want to know how to make this dish truly stand out, here's my best advice: don't rush the braising. Let those pork balls soak up all the flavors for a truly authentic and tasty result. Serve them over rice or noodles, and you've got a meal that's both easy and impressive. This recipe is perfect for weeknights or when you want to wow your friends with your homemade cooking skills. So grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready for a delicious adventure in your own kitchen!

Braised Pork Balls In Gravy Tips

Ready to make your Hebei Braised Pork Balls In Gravy recipe the star of your dinner table? Let's roll up those sleeves-literally! For the best, most authentic results, use a mix of fatty and lean pork. This combo keeps your pork balls juicy and tender, not dry and sad. Want to know how to make them extra tasty? Give the meat a good, thorough mix until it's sticky-think of it as a mini arm workout with delicious rewards.
When it comes to the gravy, don't just settle for any old sauce. The secret to a perfect, rich, and glossy finish is patience. Simmer low and slow, letting all those flavors meld together. If you're in a rush, a quick cornstarch slurry will thicken things up in a snap-easy and effective! For a homemade touch, add a splash of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar to balance the savory notes.
Want your Hebei-style Braised Pork Balls In Gravy to look as good as they taste? Here's a simple tip: shape the balls with wet hands for a smooth, restaurant-worthy finish. And don't forget, the best recipes are all about layering flavors. Toss in a few aromatics like ginger or scallions for that authentic, mouthwatering aroma.
If you're after a quick and easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is your new best friend. It's simple enough for beginners but delivers a delicious, crowd-pleasing result every time. For extra wow-factor, serve with steamed rice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Now that's what we call a perfect, tasty meal!

Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, you want your braised pork balls in gravy to feel like royalty in your fridge. The best way to keep them healthy and delicious is to use an airtight container, which keeps out those pesky fridge odors and prevents the gravy from turning your other leftovers into a porky surprise. If you are feeling extra fancy, divide the pork balls and gravy into single servings for a quick and easy meal prep solution that will make you feel like a recipe genius every time you open the fridge.
Shelf life is where things get interesting, and nobody wants to play "guess the age" with their dinner. Your braised pork balls in gravy will stay in good shape for about three to four days in the refrigerator, which is just enough time to savor every bite without rushing. If you are not planning a fast return to pork ball paradise, pop them in the freezer for up to two months, and you will have a great, easy meal ready to go whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating is the secret to bringing back that just-cooked magic, and it is easier than you think. For the best results, gently warm your pork balls and gravy on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep things smooth and avoid any scorched surprises. If you are in a hurry, the microwave is a quick and easy option, but cover the dish to keep the gravy from redecorating your microwave-because cleaning up porky splatters is nobody's idea of a good time!

Braised Pork Balls In Gravy Story

When I first encountered this dish, my reaction was somewhere between mild confusion and outright skepticism. I was convinced that there were better, more exciting options out there, and I did not see the appeal. My friends would rave about how good it was, but I just could not get past my indifference. I even tried to avoid it at gatherings, making quick excuses to fill my plate with something else. At that point, I would have chosen a fast snack over this so called classic any day.
Things started to change when I found myself at a dinner where this dish was the star of the show. With no escape route in sight, I decided to give it a fair shot. To my surprise, it was not just edible, it was actually delicious. The recipe seemed simple enough, but the flavors were layered and comforting. Suddenly, I understood why people called it one of the best dishes around. It was easy to see how it could win over even the most stubborn skeptics, myself included.
Now, I am a full fledged fan and will defend this dish with the passion of someone who has seen the light. I have even tried making it at home, and while my version is not quite restaurant quality, it is still pretty great. I love how it manages to be both healthy and satisfying, and it is surprisingly easy to prepare for something that tastes so complex. What started as a quick dismissal has turned into a deep appreciation, and I am always on the lookout for new ways to enjoy this timeless recipe.

Braised Pork Balls In Gravy Quick Mistake Fixes

If you find yourself reaching for a glass of water after every bite, chances are your dish has taken a salty detour. Too much salt can sneak in, especially with gravies and braised dishes, turning what should be a delicious, comforting meal into a sodium overload. The best way to fix this in a flash is to add a splash of water or a handful of chopped veggies to soak up the excess. If you want to keep things healthy and still enjoy a great meal, a quick potato chunk or two can work wonders by absorbing some of that salt. Remember, a good recipe is all about balance, not a salt lick challenge!
Nobody wants to bite into a pork ball and feel like they are chewing on a rubber bouncy ball from a vending machine. Overcooking is the sneaky villain that can turn a fast, easy dinner into a jaw workout. The best way to avoid this is to keep a close eye on your simmering pot and trust your instincts. If you do end up with overcooked pork balls, a quick fix is to let them rest in the gravy for a bit longer, which can help them soak up moisture and regain some tenderness. A good gravy can be a great disguise for a slightly overdone ball, making the whole dish taste delicious again.
Sometimes, even the most promising dish can come out looking like a science experiment gone wrong. Bad appearance can make even the best recipe seem less appetizing, but a few quick tricks can save the day. Garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a pop of color and make your meal look as good as it tastes. A healthy dose of confidence and a little plating creativity can turn a drab dish into a showstopper. After all, we eat with our eyes first, so make it look as delicious as it is!