Chinese-style red-braised pork chops
Chinese-style red-braised pork chops are a savory, tender dish where bone-in pork chops are slow-cooked in a rich, glossy sauce made from soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, rock sugar, and aromatic spices like star anise and ginger. This classic preparation hails from various regional cuisines across China, particularly popular in home-style cooking for its deep, comforting flavors.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in protein from the pork and contains significant fat from both the meat and the braising oil, with minimal carbohydrates coming mainly from the sugar and sauces used. A typical serving provides a good source of B vitamins, iron, and zinc, and generally ranges from 400 to 600 calories depending on the cut of pork and portion size.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Zinc | 5.0 mg |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.6 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.2 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 7.0 mg |
Per 1 serving (about 250 g, 2 chops with sauce) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The 'red' in its name refers to the deep, reddish-brown color achieved through caramelization of sugar and the use of dark soy sauce, a technique central to many Chinese braised dishes. Nutritionally, the slow braising process helps break down connective tissues, making the meat tender while allowing flavors to meld deeply, though the dish is traditionally enjoyed in moderation due to its richness.
