Five-Spice Roast Pork with Barbecued Asian Greens

This Five-Spice Roast Pork with Barbecued Asian Greens is the perfect balance of savory and sweet. The crispy, golden skin of the pork contrasts beautifully with the tender, slightly charred greens, making for a dish that is both visually stunning and delicious.

The aromatic five-spice blend penetrates the pork, giving it an unforgettable flavor that pairs perfectly with the charred sweetness of the barbecued greens. It’s the perfect meal to serve at a family gathering or dinner party, as it is sure to impress with both its flavors and presentation.

Full Recipe:

1.5 kg (3.3 lb) pork shoulder
2 tbsp Chinese five-spice powder

2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp sesame oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 bunches bok choy, halved lengthways

1 bunch Asian greens (e.g., Chinese broccoli or gai lan)
1 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).

Score the pork skin in a criss-cross pattern and rub the pork with five-spice powder, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
Place the pork on a roasting rack in a baking dish and roast for 40 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy. Reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and continue roasting for an additional 40 minutes.
While the pork is roasting, heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the bok choy and Asian greens, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant in color.

Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve the sliced pork with the barbecued Asian greens on the side. Garnish with additional sesame oil or soy sauce if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Kcal: 380 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

History and Origin

The inspiration for Five-Spice Roast Pork can be traced back to traditional Chinese cooking, where the combination of spices plays an integral role in balancing flavors. Five-spice powder, which is a blend of star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds, is a staple in Chinese cuisine. It’s used to season meats and dishes, giving them a warm, slightly sweet, and aromatic taste profile.

Pork, being a popular meat in Chinese cooking, is often roasted or braised, with the crispy skin being one of the most desired parts of the dish. This preparation method is often found in Cantonese and other regional Chinese culinary traditions, where roast meats are served in a variety of ways.

Barbecued greens, on the other hand, are a nod to Asian cooking methods where vegetables are often stir-fried or grilled, offering a smoky char and tender texture. In China and many parts of Asia, greens like bok choy, gai lan, and Chinese broccoli are regularly used in meals, not just for their flavor but also for their nutritional benefits.

Variations and Adaptations

As with many traditional dishes, there are a variety of ways to prepare Five-Spice Roast Pork with Asian Greens, depending on regional preferences and available ingredients.

Regional Variations: In northern China, where the winters are cold, the use of pork with hearty, robust flavors is more common. The five-spice seasoning might be enhanced with additional elements like ginger or hoisin sauce for extra depth. In the southern regions, where the food tends to be lighter, the roast might be less heavy-handed with the spice blend and instead focus on fresh herbs and a more subtle sauce.

Variations in Greens: The type of greens used in this recipe can also vary widely. While bok choy is the go-to in many areas, some regions prefer gai lan (Chinese broccoli) or even mustard greens. These variations provide slightly different textures and flavors—gai lan has a stronger, slightly bitter taste, while mustard greens offer a peppery, sharp note.
Spicy Versions: For those who prefer a bit of heat, a touch of chili paste or fresh chili peppers can be added to the marinade or the stir-fried greens. This adds a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the pork and balances the five-spice’s warmth.

Nutritional Information

Five-Spice Roast Pork with Barbecued Asian Greens is a nutritious, balanced meal, especially if you’re mindful of how much oil you use during preparation. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional profile:

Calories: The average serving of this dish (including both the pork and the greens) contains approximately 380 kcal, making it a moderate-calorie meal when served with a side of rice or noodles.
Macronutrients:
- Protein: Pork shoulder is a rich source of protein, with one serving containing around 35-40 grams of protein. This makes it an excellent choice for muscle-building and recovery.
- Fats: The pork does contain a higher fat content, especially when the skin is left on and roasted for a crispy texture. Depending on the cut, one serving may have 20-25 grams of fat, but many of these fats are healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Carbohydrates: The dish is quite low in carbs unless paired with rice or another starchy side. The greens contribute a small amount of carbohydrates, mainly from fiber, which aids digestion.

Micronutrients:
- Vitamins and Minerals: The barbecued greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and calcium. Bok choy, for example, is an excellent source of vitamin K, which supports bone health, and vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.
- Iron: Pork is also a good source of heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by the body compared to plant-based iron sources.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While this dish is a standout on its own, it’s always fun to pair it with complementary dishes and beverages that enhance its flavors. Here are a few ideas:

Rice and Noodles: To round out the meal, serve the pork with a side of steamed jasmine rice or some noodles. The rice will help balance the richness of the pork and soak up any of the flavorful juices. For a more substantial meal, try pairing the pork with stir-fried noodles, giving the meal a bit more texture and depth.

Pickled Vegetables: A small side of pickled vegetables can add a delightful tangy contrast to the richness of the pork. The acidity of pickles helps cleanse the palate between bites of fatty meat.
Drink Pairing: When it comes to drinks, a light, crisp white wine such as Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with this dish, cutting through the richness of the pork. If you prefer beer, a light lager or pilsner works best. For a non-alcoholic option, try a cold jasmine tea, which will complement the flavors of the Asian greens.
Garnishes: Fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions make an excellent garnish, providing a fresh, aromatic contrast to the savory pork. A sprinkle of sesame seeds also adds a nice crunch and nuttiness.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Five-Spice Roast Pork with Barbecued Asian Greens turns out perfectly, here are a few expert tips:

Pork Preparation: Scoring the pork skin is key to achieving that perfect crispy crackling. Use a sharp knife to make deep cuts in a criss-cross pattern, allowing the fat to render out during roasting, leaving behind a crispy exterior.

Marinating Time: For the best flavor, try to marinate the pork for several hours, or even overnight. This allows the five-spice blend to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more intense flavor.
Roasting Temperature: The initial high-temperature roasting helps create that crispy skin, but don’t forget to lower the temperature afterward to cook the pork through evenly. You want the interior to be juicy and tender, not dry.
Greens Cooking: When stir-frying the Asian greens, ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan. The greens should be cooked quickly at high heat to achieve that smoky, charred flavor without becoming soggy.

Potential Health Benefits

The combination of lean pork and nutrient-rich greens provides several health benefits:

Protein for Muscle Repair: The pork shoulder provides a great source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

Rich in Antioxidants: The spices used in this recipe, particularly star anise and cinnamon, are known for their antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body, which can reduce inflammation and the risk of chronic diseases.
Fiber-Rich Greens: The Asian greens add plenty of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Conclusion

Five-Spice Roast Pork with Barbecued Asian Greens is an exceptional dish that combines rich flavors, textures, and a touch of cultural history. It’s versatile enough for both everyday meals and special occasions, and it provides a healthy dose of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. So, why not give it a try? It might just become your new favorite go-to meal!