Chinese Ham Stew

Introduction

History

Chinese Ham Stew has a long history in Chinese culinary tradition. It is believed to have originated in the Sichuan province of China, where pork is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of pork, mushrooms, and soy sauce creates a rich and flavorful stew that has been enjoyed by generations of Chinese families.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to soak the dried wood ear mushrooms in water before adding them to the stew. This will help them rehydrate and become tender.

- Cooking the stew on low heat for a longer period of time will help the flavors develop and the pork to become tender.

- Feel free to add other vegetables or herbs to the stew to customize it to your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese Ham Stew is traditionally served with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Chinese Ham Stew is to cook it on low heat for a longer period of time. This will allow the flavors to develop and the pork to become tender. Be sure to stir the stew occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find dried wood ear mushrooms, you can use fresh mushrooms instead. You can also substitute the pork leg with pork shoulder or pork belly for a different texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Chinese Ham Stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the stew on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chinese Ham Stew in a large bowl with a garnish of fresh cilantro or green onions. You can also sprinkle some sesame seeds or red pepper flakes on top for added color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Chinese Ham Stew pairs well with a light and refreshing beer or a glass of white wine. You can also serve it with a cup of hot tea or a glass of iced green tea for a traditional Chinese meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chinese Ham Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese Ham Stew contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie meal that is perfect for a healthy and balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in Chinese Ham Stew come primarily from the soy sauce and mushrooms. This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a good option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The fats in Chinese Ham Stew come from the pork leg. While pork is a higher fat meat, the stew is relatively low in fat overall. Trim any excess fat from the pork before cooking to reduce the fat content further.

Proteins

The protein in Chinese Ham Stew comes from the pork leg. Pork is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. This stew is a hearty and satisfying meal that will keep you full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

Chinese Ham Stew is a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being. The mushrooms in the stew also provide a good source of potassium and vitamin D.

Alergens

Chinese Ham Stew contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. If you have a gluten allergy or sensitivity, be sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce in this recipe.

Summary

Overall, Chinese Ham Stew is a nutritious and delicious meal that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying dish that is perfect for a cold winter day.

Summary

Chinese Ham Stew is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This traditional Chinese recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. Enjoy this hearty stew with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that will warm you up from the inside out.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day and I was wandering through the bustling streets of Chinatown in San Francisco. The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of spices and herbs, and I found myself drawn to a small, unassuming shop tucked away in a corner.

As I stepped inside, I was greeted by a kind elderly woman who seemed to radiate warmth and wisdom. She beckoned me over to a large pot simmering on the stove, filled with chunks of succulent ham and an array of colorful vegetables. The savory scent wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I watched in awe as the woman deftly seasoned the stew with a blend of exotic spices and herbs, adding a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sugar for the perfect balance of flavors. She explained to me that this dish was a traditional Chinese ham stew, passed down through generations in her family.

Intrigued by the recipe, I begged the woman to teach me how to make it. She smiled warmly and invited me to her home the following day, promising to share the secret behind the delicious dish.

The next morning, I found myself standing in the woman's cozy kitchen, surrounded by the tantalizing scents of ginger, garlic, and star anise. She handed me a sharp knife and a cutting board, instructing me to chop the vegetables while she prepared the ham.

As we worked side by side, she shared stories of her childhood in China, of family gatherings and festive meals centered around this hearty stew. I listened intently, absorbing every detail as she guided me through the process of creating the dish from scratch.

Together, we marinated the ham in a fragrant mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and spices, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. We sautéed the vegetables in a hot wok, adding the marinated ham and simmering everything together until the meat was tender and the vegetables were infused with rich, savory flavors.

Finally, we ladled the steaming stew into bowls and garnished it with fresh cilantro and green onions. I took a hesitant bite, savoring the robust flavors and tender textures that danced on my tongue. It was a revelation, a symphony of tastes and aromas that transported me to a faraway land.

From that day on, I cherished the recipe for Chinese ham stew as a precious gift, a treasure that connected me to a culture and tradition far beyond my own. I shared it with friends and family, delighting in the joy and satisfaction it brought to their taste buds.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, each batch a labor of love and a tribute to the wise woman who first introduced me to its magic. And as I stir the pot and inhale the heady scents of ginger and garlic, I am reminded of her gentle smile and the warmth of her kitchen, a place where flavors and memories intertwine in perfect harmony.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to nourish our souls. And as I continue to cook and share this dish with those I hold dear, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the flavors savored along the way.

Categories

| Chinese Meat Dishes | Chinese Recipes | Garlic Recipes | Pork Leg Recipes | Wood Ear Mushroom Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients