Traveling though Asia is a culinary delight with so much cuisine and flavor to experience. Star anise originates from China and is the main flavor component of this easy slow cooked pork, along with the chili. It’s comforting and satisfying. I do not deseed the chili, but if you are nervous, you may do that. This is the perfect dish that you can get ready the evening before and then turn the crockpot on in the morning, ready for the end of a busy day. It is better to serve it diced, but if you really do not have the time and energy, put the entire shoulder in and pull part the meat into chunks when it is cooked. It should serve 6 with some leftovers for lunch. The gift that keeps on giving. If you want to lighten it, you can serve the pork in lettuce leaves for a satisfying low carb option. It’s so much healthier than an Asian take out and my personal opinion is that it tastes better!
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WINE NOTE: Negro amaro from Italy is a wonderful rich wine that pairs well with spices. Although this isn’t an overtly spicy dish, the pairing works pleasantly, the wine being as comforting as the pork is.
9oz / 250g Onions chopped
3 Garlic cloves finely chopped
1 Red chili finely chopped
2 Star anise
1 tsp Mixed spice
1tsp Ground coriander
1tsp Ground ginger
2 lbs / 1Kg Shoulder pork diced (If short on time use whole- it’ll be fine)
4tsp Honey
1tbsp Molasses or black treacle
2Tbsp Light soy sauce
5tbsp White wine
2 Cups / 500ml Chicken stock
Sea salt and fresh ground pepper
Place all of the ingredients in the crockpot /slow cooker and cook for 6-8 hours
Serve over egg noodles or rice.
Alternative wines are Primitivo from Puglia, or Zinfandel from America. Zinfandel originates from the Primitivo grape. It was exported to the states and became Zinfandel. Both wines are bold and pair well with BBQ and curry. Negro Amaro also pairs well with these foods and you will often find it under the name of Salice Salentino.
Wine With Food 