Ingredients

800 g pork belly or pork shoulder, cut into chunks

4 cloves garlic, crushed

120 ml soy sauce

80 ml cane vinegar (or white vinegar)

1 cup water

2–3 bay leaves

1 tsp whole black peppercorns

1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)

1 tbsp cooking oil

Preparation
1.Marinate (optional but recommended):

Combine pork, soy sauce, and garlic. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2.Sear:
Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Brown the pork pieces lightly.
3.Braise:
Add the marinade, vinegar, water, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Simmer for 35–45 minutes until the pork is tender.
4.Reduce the Sauce:
Remove the lid and continue simmering until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Adjust sweetness if desired.

Serving Suggestion
Serve hot with steamed white rice. The sauce is spooned generously over the rice, making it deeply flavorful and comforting.