Bing Tang Ti Bang

Bing Tang Ti Bang Recipe - Traditional Chinese/Hong Kong Dish

Region / culture: China, Hong Kong | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Bing Tang Ti Bang is a traditional Chinese dish known for its rich flavors and unique preparation method. This dish, which translates to "Candied Sweet Pork Hock," combines the savory taste of pork with the sweetness of crystal sugar, creating a delightful balance that has been cherished across generations. The recipe involves marinating, boiling, and slow-cooking the hog hoof to achieve a tender, flavorful dish that melts in your mouth. This guide will take you through the history, cooking tips, nutritional information, and various ways to enjoy Bing Tang Ti Bang.

History

The origins of Bing Tang Ti Bang can be traced back to ancient China, where it was considered a delicacy among the nobility. Over time, the recipe was adapted by various regions, incorporating local ingredients and cooking techniques. This dish is a testament to the ingenuity of Chinese cuisine, showcasing the ability to transform simple ingredients into a luxurious feast. Bing Tang Ti Bang has been passed down through generations, each adding their own touch to the recipe, making it a beloved dish in Chinese households.

Ingredients

1 hog hoof
3 stalks spring onion
1 tbsp minced ginger
80 g crystal (rock) sugar

Sauce

5 tbsp light soy sauce
2 tbsp yellow wine
0.5 tbsp sesame oil

How to prepare

Remove all hair from the hog hoof and boil it in hot water for 5 minutes.
Cut the hog hoof into small cubes (2"x2") and chop the spring onion into short stalks.
Marinate the hog hoof with ginger, spring onion, and sauce for 2 hours.
Parboil the hog hoof in hot oil for 1 minute, then pour out the oil.
Add 500 ml of water and the marinated sauce, and cook for 1 hour over low heat.
Add crystal sugar and continue boiling for 1 hour over low heat.
When the sauce is almost dry, remove from heat and serve.

Variations

There are several variations of Bing Tang Ti Bang that incorporate different ingredients or cooking methods:
Spicy Bing Tang Ti Bang: Add chili peppers or chili oil to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Herbal Bing Tang Ti Bang: Include traditional Chinese herbs in the cooking process for added health benefits and flavor complexity.
Beer-Braised Bing Tang Ti Bang: Substitute yellow wine with beer in the sauce for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when preparing Bing Tang Ti Bang, consider the following tips:

- Use a fresh hog hoof for optimal flavor and texture.

- Marinate the hog hoof for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.

- Boil the hog hoof before marinating to remove any impurities and ensure a clean taste.

- Cook the dish over low heat to allow the meat to become tender and absorb the flavors fully.

- Be patient with the cooking process, as slow cooking is key to achieving the perfect consistency and depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Bing Tang Ti Bang is best served hot, accompanied by steamed rice or vegetables to balance the dish's richness. It can also be enjoyed with a side of pickled vegetables to add a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory flavors.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for Bing Tang Ti Bang include marinating, boiling, and slow-cooking. These methods ensure that the flavors are fully absorbed and the meat becomes tender and succulent.

Ingredient Substitutions

If yellow wine is unavailable, it can be substituted with dry sherry or rice wine vinegar.

- Brown sugar can be used instead of crystal sugar for a deeper flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Bing Tang Ti Bang can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving. To ensure the best taste and texture, reheat the dish slowly over low heat or in a covered dish in the oven.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Bing Tang Ti Bang in a deep, decorative bowl to showcase the rich sauce and tender meat. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added color and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Bing Tang Ti Bang with light, crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling to balance the dish's richness. For non-alcoholic options, consider jasmine tea or sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in a microwave, adding a little water if necessary to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Bing Tang Ti Bang contains approximately 300 calories. The calories are primarily derived from the fats and proteins in the hog hoof, with a smaller contribution from the carbohydrates in the sugar.

Carbohydrates

Bing Tang Ti Bang is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the crystal sugar used in the recipe. A serving of this dish contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates, most of which come from sugars. This makes it a suitable option for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake, though the sugar content should be considered.

Fats

The hog hoof is a fatty cut of meat, contributing to the rich taste and mouthfeel of Bing Tang Ti Bang. A serving of this dish contains about 15 grams of fat, including saturated and unsaturated fats. While the fat content adds to the dish's flavor, it's advisable to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

Bing Tang Ti Bang is a good source of protein, with a serving providing approximately 25 grams. The protein comes from the hog hoof, making this dish a hearty and satisfying option for protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish provides a range of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, all of which are essential for maintaining good health. The exact nutritional content can vary based on the specific ingredients used and their proportions.

Alergens

Bing Tang Ti Bang contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten. However, those with specific dietary restrictions or allergies should review the ingredients list carefully and make adjustments as necessary.

Summary

Overall, Bing Tang Ti Bang is a rich, flavorful dish that provides a good balance of proteins and fats, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates. It offers nutritional benefits, including essential vitamins and minerals, but should be enjoyed as part of a varied and balanced diet due to its fat and sugar content.

Summary

Bing Tang Ti Bang is a classic Chinese dish that offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. With its rich history and nutritional benefits, it's a great addition to any meal. By following the tips and variations provided, you can enjoy this traditional dish in a way that suits your taste and dietary needs.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a rainy day in Shanghai, and I had wandered into a bustling market looking for some ingredients for my next cooking experiment. As I browsed through the stalls, a friendly old lady caught my eye and motioned for me to come closer.

"Ni hao, young lady. Are you looking for something special to cook today?" she asked with a warm smile.

I nodded eagerly, always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to try. The old lady rummaged through a pile of cookbooks and handed me a weathered piece of paper with a recipe scribbled on it.

"This is a family recipe for Bing Tang Ti Bang. It's a traditional dessert that has been passed down through generations in my family. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I have," she said.

I thanked her profusely and made my way back home, eager to try out this new recipe. As I read through the instructions, I realized that Bing Tang Ti Bang was a sweet pastry filled with red bean paste and coated in a sticky sugar syrup. It sounded absolutely delicious, and I couldn't wait to get started.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. The recipe was surprisingly easy to follow, and before long, the sweet aroma of red bean paste and sugar filled my small apartment. As I took my first bite of the warm, gooey pastry, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

From that day on, Bing Tang Ti Bang became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, and just whenever I needed a little pick-me-up. Each time I made it, I would think back to that rainy day in Shanghai and the kind old lady who had shared her family recipe with me.

Over the years, I perfected my own version of Bing Tang Ti Bang, adding a pinch of cinnamon here, a dash of vanilla there. I would experiment with different fillings, from sweetened chestnuts to mashed taro, always trying to put my own unique twist on this beloved dessert.

As I grew older, I began to share the recipe with my grandchildren, passing down the tradition just as the old lady in the market had done for me. They would gather around the kitchen table, eager to help me roll out the dough and shape the pastries. And as we sat down to enjoy our creations together, I would tell them the story of how I had first discovered Bing Tang Ti Bang and the memories it held for me.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of sugar and red bean paste, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, a memory of a place or a person who has touched my life in some way.

And as I take a bite of my latest batch of Bing Tang Ti Bang, I can't help but smile, knowing that this simple dessert will continue to bring joy to my family for generations to come. Cooking is not just about following a recipe; it's about creating memories and sharing them with the ones you love. And for that, I will always be grateful.