Braised Pork with Chestnuts
Braised Pork with Chestnuts (Hong Shao Rou) is a classic Chinese comfort dish where chunks of pork belly are slow-braised in a savory-sweet sauce until meltingly tender, then combined with sweet, starchy chestnuts. Originating from Shanghai and the broader Jiangnan region, it's a beloved home-style dish often served during festivals or family gatherings.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is relatively high in fat and calories due to the pork belly, but it also provides a good amount of protein and, with the chestnuts, a source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. A typical serving (about 1 cup) can range from 400 to 600 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 510 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fat | 38 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Potassium | 480 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.2 mcg |
| Zinc | 4.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Selenium | 18 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5.0 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the dish symbolizes abundance and togetherness, as the round chestnuts represent family unity. Nutritionally, the chestnuts add a unique texture and a boost of vitamins like B6 and minerals like potassium, balancing the richness of the pork.
