Bai Yun Ju Shou

Bai Yun Ju Shou Recipe - Authentic Hong Kong Dish

Region / culture: Hong Kong | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Bai Yun Ju Shou is a traditional Chinese dish that translates to "White Cloud Pig's Hand," a poetic name that hints at the delicate and tender nature of the prepared pork. This dish is renowned for its unique preparation method and the flavorful, succulent meat that results from it. The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors makes it a favorite among those who appreciate depth in their culinary experiences. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating this exquisite dish at home, inviting you to explore the rich tapestry of Chinese cuisine.

History

The origins of Bai Yun Ju Shou can be traced back to the imperial kitchens of ancient China, where it was prepared as a delicacy for royalty and nobility. Over the centuries, the recipe was passed down through generations, gradually making its way into the homes of the common people while retaining its status as a dish of elegance and refinement. The meticulous preparation process and the balance of flavors reflect the Chinese culinary philosophy of harmony and balance, making Bai Yun Ju Shou a testament to the country's rich gastronomic heritage.

Ingredients

1200 g pig's fore leg
1 red pepper

Sauce

500 ml white vinegar
500 ml water
600 ml sugar
2 tbsp salt
5 slices ginger

How to prepare

Clean the pig's fore leg and chop it into small bite-sized pieces. Shred the red pepper.
Heat a wok with plenty of water and add the pig's fore leg and the pepper.
Reduce the heat to low once the water boils again and cook for 45 minutes.
Drain the pig's fore leg and remove any excess fat by rinsing it with clear water.
Soak the cooked pig's fore leg in clear water for 1 hour.
Heat a wok with 500 ml of water and cook the pig's fore leg for 30 minutes.
Drain and clean the pig's fore leg, then soak it in chilled cold water for 30 minutes.
Pour the cooked pig's fore leg pieces into a large container.
Heat a wok and boil the sauce, then let it cool.
Pour the sauce into the container along with the pig's fore leg.
Add the shredded red pepper and refrigerate for 12 hours.
Serve after removing from the refrigerator for 2 hours.

Variations

1. For a spicier version, add more red pepper or a few slices of fresh chili to the sauce.
2. A sweeter variation can be achieved by increasing the sugar content in the sauce.
3. For a tangier taste, adjust the vinegar to water ratio in favor of vinegar.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. For the best texture, choose a pig's foreleg that is fresh and has a good balance of meat and fat.

2. When boiling the pig's foreleg, adding a few slices of ginger can help neutralize any unwanted odors.

3. Ensure the pig's foreleg is thoroughly cleaned and rinsed to remove any impurities and excess fat, which contributes to a cleaner taste.

4. Soaking the cooked pig's foreleg in cold water helps tighten the meat, making it more tender and easier to slice.

5. Allow the sauce to cool before pouring it over the pig's foreleg to prevent the meat from overcooking and becoming tough.

Serving Suggestions

Bai Yun Ju Shou is best served chilled, making it a refreshing option for summer meals. It can be served as an appetizer or a main dish, accompanied by steamed rice or noodles to balance the flavors.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques involved in preparing Bai Yun Ju Shou include boiling, rinsing, and marinating. These steps are crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. If pig's foreleg is not available, pork belly can be used as a substitute, though the texture and flavor will slightly differ.

2. Apple cider vinegar can replace white vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Bai Yun Ju Shou can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together more fully. This makes it a convenient option for meal planning.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Bai Yun Ju Shou on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro and slices of lime for a pop of color and flavor. A side of pickled vegetables complements the dish well.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a refreshing beer pairs well with Bai Yun Ju Shou, balancing the richness of the pork and the acidity of the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Bai Yun Ju Shou should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 3 days. It is not recommended to reheat the dish, as it is intended to be served chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Bai Yun Ju Shou contains approximately 350 calories, making it a moderately energy-dense dish that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

The primary source of carbohydrates in Bai Yun Ju Shou comes from the sugar used in the sauce. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates, mainly contributing to the dish's energy content.

Fats

Pig's foreleg is moderately high in fat, with a serving of Bai Yun Ju Shou containing about 20 grams of fat. However, the meticulous preparation process, which includes boiling and rinsing, helps reduce the fat content, making it a relatively healthier option.

Proteins

Bai Yun Ju Shou is an excellent source of protein, with each serving providing approximately 25 grams of protein. This makes it a suitable dish for those looking to maintain or increase their muscle mass.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, phosphorus, and zinc, all of which are crucial for maintaining good health. The red pepper adds a dose of Vitamin C, enhancing the nutritional profile of the dish.

Alergens

The primary allergen present in Bai Yun Ju Shou is the pig's foreleg, which may not be suitable for individuals with allergies to pork. Additionally, those with sensitivities to vinegar or ginger should consume this dish with caution.

Summary

Bai Yun Ju Shou is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. Its moderate calorie content makes it suitable for inclusion in a balanced diet, while the meticulous preparation process helps reduce the fat content, making it a healthier option.

Summary

Bai Yun Ju Shou is a traditional Chinese dish that offers a unique blend of flavors and textures. Its rich history, combined with the meticulous preparation process, results in a dish that is both a culinary delight and a cultural experience. By following this recipe, you can bring a taste of Chinese elegance to your dining table.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Bai Yun Ju Shou. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my friend Mei at her home in the countryside. Mei was known for her incredible culinary skills, and I always looked forward to the delicious meals she would prepare for us.

On this particular day, Mei invited me to join her in the kitchen as she prepared a special dish she called Bai Yun Ju Shou. I had never heard of it before, but Mei assured me that it was a traditional dish that her grandmother used to make for her when she was a child.

As we worked together in the kitchen, Mei shared the history of the dish with me. Bai Yun Ju Shou, she explained, was a popular recipe in her hometown in China. It was a dish that was often made for celebrations and special occasions, and each family had their own unique variation of the recipe.

Mei's version of Bai Yun Ju Shou was a delicate and flavorful mixture of shrimp, vegetables, and a savory sauce made from a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. The dish was then topped with a generous sprinkling of fresh cilantro and green onions, giving it a bright and refreshing flavor that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

As I watched Mei expertly chop and stir the ingredients together, I realized that there was something truly special about this dish. It wasn't just the flavors or the aromas that filled the kitchen, but the love and care that went into preparing it. Mei's hands moved with a grace and precision that could only come from years of practice and dedication to her craft.

I knew that I had to learn how to make Bai Yun Ju Shou for myself. I wanted to be able to recreate this dish for my own family and friends, to share with them the joy and warmth that it brought to me that day in Mei's kitchen.

After we had finished cooking, Mei and I sat down to enjoy our meal together. The flavors of the Bai Yun Ju Shou danced on my tongue, and I savored each bite as if it were the most exquisite dish I had ever tasted.

As we ate, Mei shared more stories with me about her grandmother and the many recipes she had passed down through the generations. She told me about the time she had spent in the kitchen with her grandmother, learning the secrets of each dish and the importance of cooking with love and intention.

I realized then that cooking was so much more than just following a recipe. It was a way to connect with our past, to honor our traditions, and to create something beautiful and meaningful to share with others.

After my visit with Mei, I returned home with a newfound passion for cooking. I spent hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to perfect my own version of Bai Yun Ju Shou.

Over time, I learned to make the dish with confidence and finesse, adding my own personal touches and flavors to make it truly my own. I shared the recipe with my family and friends, and it quickly became a favorite at gatherings and celebrations.

Now, whenever I make Bai Yun Ju Shou, I am reminded of that warm summer afternoon in Mei's kitchen, and the love and friendship that went into creating that perfect meal. Cooking has become not just a hobby, but a way for me to connect with others and share a piece of myself with the world.

I am grateful for the lessons I learned that day, and for the recipe for Bai Yun Ju Shou that continues to bring joy and happiness to all who taste it. It is a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.