- Prepare by boiling the pork for 5 minutes to get rid of any impurities. This process will also yield the pork more tender. Drain the pork and dry with a paper towel. Set it aside.
- In a wok or sauce pan, heat the oil with medium heat. Brown the pork lightly, about 1 minute per side. Remove pork and set it aside.
- Over medium heat, in the same wok or pan, add 2 tablespoons of oil and add the scallions, garlic and ginger to fragrant them for about 45 seconds, without burning the scallions.
- Add 3 tablespoons of water and dissolve the sugar until bubbling.
- Turn down the heat to medium to return the pork pieces to the wok or saucepan, carefully stirring to coat the pork without breaking the skin from the fat.
- Add the soy sauce and wine. Cook until the sauce is slightly reduced. Add the water, star anise and cinnamon stick, and return to sauce to boil.
- Now, the patience part. Return the heat to low and partially cover. Simmer slowly and stir occasionally until the pork is super tender. The longer the simmer, the softer the meat will be. But be careful to not let the sauce dry out. Add water if needed. I recommend 1 1/2 hours minimum to build all the flavors! Be patient and watch over it with love.
You will end up with a dish that will be treasured by everyone.