beer-braised pork belly

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork belly pieces and sear until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Remove the pork belly and set aside. Discard any excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the ginger and garlic. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Return the pork belly to the pot. Add the beer, soy sauce, brown sugar, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Check occasionally and add a little water if the sauce reduces too much.
7. Once the pork is tender, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high to allow the sauce to reduce and caramelize, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes.
8. Add the green onions and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
9. Serve the beer-braised pork belly hot, drizzled with the rich, caramelized sauce.