Star Anise
Spicy Fried Chili
This aromatic and versatile homemade chili oil is a must-try for spice lovers! Infused with warm cinnamon, star anise, and numbing Sichuan peppercorns, this rich blend combines fiery chili powder, nutty white sesame seeds, and savory fermented bean paste for deep, complex flavors. The magic happens when caramelized sugar turns red-hot, melding with toasted spices and soy sauce to create a glossy, fragrant oil. Perfect as a noodle topping, dipping sauce, or flavor booster for dishes like mapo tofu or twice-cooked pork, this chili oil adds a bold kick to any meal. Garnished with a vibrant physalis fruit, it also makes a stunning homemade gift. Elevate your cooking with this umami-packed, multi-layered condiment that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Steamed Pork in Bowl
This crispy steamed pork recipe is a delicious twist on classic fried meat, combining a golden crunch with tender, aromatic flavors. Thin strips of pork are marinated in cooking wine, cornstarch, and pepper powder for extra juiciness, then coated in a spiced batter made with egg, flour, water starch, and five-spice powder. The meat is fried until perfectly crisp before being steamed with scallions, ginger, star anise, bay leaves, and cinnamon in a savory blend of light soy sauce and rich pork bone broth. The result? A mouthwatering dish with layers of texture—crispy on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth tender inside—infused with warm, fragrant spices. Perfect as a comforting main course, this recipe elevates simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. The steaming process locks in moisture while blending the bold flavors of the spices and broth, making every bite irresistible. Try this unique method for a dish that’s crispy, savory, and deeply satisfying!
Steamed Tofu with Scallions
This savory **Tofu and Pork Loin Stir-Fry** is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender pork, silky tofu, and crisp vegetables in a rich, umami-packed sauce. Key ingredients like **wood ear mushrooms**, **cucumber**, and **potato** add unique textures, while **star anise and scallions** infuse aromatic depth. The pork loin is marinated with **starch and seafood soy sauce** for extra tenderness, then stir-fried until perfectly juicy. Blanched tofu simmers gently in the sauce to absorb all the delicious flavors without breaking apart. A quick addition of cucumber and wood ear mushrooms at the end keeps them crisp and vibrant. Finished with **oyster sauce** and a touch of cornstarch for a glossy, thick coating, this dish is best served hot over steamed rice. Perfect for a comforting meal, this stir-fry balances savory, sweet, and earthy notes in every bite!
Stewed Yellow Bean with Pork Elbow
This tender and flavorful Pork Knuckle with Soybeans recipe is a comforting, slow-simmered dish that’s rich in umami depth. Succulent pork knuckle is first blanched to remove impurities, then simmered with salted pork and aromatic star anise for a savory, fragrant broth. The magic happens as the soybeans soak up the rich flavors, turning creamy and tender. A splash of cooking wine, a hint of sugar, and a touch of oyster sauce at the end elevate the dish with a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. The result? A hearty, golden-yellow soup with melt-in-your-mouth pork and buttery soybeans—a nourishing meal that’s both satisfying and full of traditional comfort. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a bowl of slow-cooked goodness!
Stir-fried Eggplant with Scallions
This savory Pork Belly and Eggplant Stir-Fry is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender marinated pork belly with soft, flavorful eggplant for a rich and satisfying meal. The pork belly is marinated with cornstarch and soy sauce for extra tenderness, then stir-fried with aromatic star anise, scallions, and garlic for a fragrant base. The eggplant is cooked until perfectly soft, adding a melt-in-your-mouth texture, while fermented bean paste and oyster sauce deepen the umami flavor. Red onions bring a touch of sweetness, balancing the dish’s bold, savory notes. Quick and easy to prepare, this stir-fry is packed with layers of flavor, making it a standout weeknight dinner. Garnished with fresh scallions and garlic, it’s a deliciously hearty dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice. Try this recipe for a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Stir-fried Flat Bean Noodles
This savory stir-fry combines tender pork slices with crisp green beans and aromatic lotus root for a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Thinly sliced pork is quickly cooked in a hot wok until juicy and golden, then paired with fragrant ginger, scallions, and star anise for a rich, aromatic base. The addition of fresh green beans and crunchy lotus root strips brings a delightful contrast, while a final drizzle of starch water creates a glossy, restaurant-quality finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this stir-fry highlights the natural sweetness of the vegetables and the umami depth of well-seasoned pork. The blend of spices and fresh ingredients makes every bite irresistible—simple to prepare yet packed with bold, satisfying flavors. Ready in minutes, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves vibrant, home-cooked stir-fries!
Stir-Fried Pork
This savory **Stir-Fried Pork Belly with Mushrooms and Chili Peppers** is a bold, umami-packed dish that brings together tender pork belly, earthy mushrooms, and spicy peppers in a rich, aromatic sauce. The pork belly is first simmered with star anise and bay leaves for depth, then thinly sliced and stir-fried until crispy. Soaked mushrooms absorb flavor while retaining their juicy texture, blending perfectly with a fragrant mix of bean paste, ginger, garlic, and Sichuan peppercorns. Dry-stirred chili peppers add a smoky kick, balancing the dish’s richness. The reserved mushroom water enhances the sauce, creating a luscious glaze that coats every bite. Perfect served over rice, this recipe delivers a harmony of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors—a true celebration of bold, comforting cuisine.
Stuffed Chicken with Pork Belly
This **Pig Stomach Stuffed with Baby Chicken** is a rich and aromatic delicacy that combines tender baby chicken with the unique texture of pig stomach, slow-braised to perfection. The chicken is stuffed with fragrant scallions, ginger, star anise, and soaked yellow beans, then encased in a salted pig stomach for a deeply flavorful experience. White peppercorns and Shaoxing wine infuse the broth with warmth and depth, while red pepper adds a vibrant touch. Slow-cooked in a clay pot for 1.5–2 hours, this dish ensures even heat distribution, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth meat and a savory, aromatic broth. Perfect for special occasions, this traditional recipe delivers a comforting, umami-packed meal that’s both hearty and unforgettable.
Tiger Skin Eggs
These **Tiger Skin Eggs** are a flavorful and aromatic twist on classic hard-boiled eggs, infused with bold spices and a rich, savory sauce. Perfectly golden-fried eggs soak up a fragrant blend of star anise, garlic, ginger, and dried red chili peppers, creating a deliciously spicy and umami-packed dish. The spring onions add a fresh contrast, while the simmered sauce thickens into a glossy, irresistible coating. Quick to prepare yet bursting with depth, these eggs make a fantastic appetizer or side dish. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on their own, these **crispy, saucy tiger skin eggs** are sure to impress with their unique texture and bold flavors!
Tofu and Fish in Hot Pot
This delicious pan-fried fish with tofu and aromatic spices is a flavorful dish that combines tender fish, savory tofu, and a fragrant sauce. The fish is marinated with scallions, ginger, lemon, and soy sauce for a zesty, umami-rich base, then pan-fried to golden perfection for a crispy exterior. Aromatic star anise and cinnamon infuse depth into the sauce, while pre-fried tofu soaks up the savory blend of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and spices. Vibrant green and red peppers add a fresh, slightly spicy finish. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and tang, this dish is a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare yet packed with complex flavors. Serve it hot for a comforting, restaurant-quality experience at home!