To boil pork without it smelling, blanching the meat beforehand with aromatics is key.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
Blanching the Pork
Blanching helps remove impurities and reduce any unpleasant odors associated with boiling pork. Follow these steps:
-
Prepare the Blanching Liquid: Fill a pot with enough water to completely submerge the pork. Add the following to the water:
- Green onions: A few chopped green onions.
- Ginger: Several slices of fresh ginger.
- Peppercorns: A handful of whole peppercorns.
-
Bring to a Boil: Bring the water to a rolling boil.
-
Add the Pork: Place the whole piece of pork (or large chunks) into the boiling water.
-
Blanch for 2-3 Minutes: Let the pork blanch for 2-3 minutes. You will notice impurities (scum) rising to the surface.
-
Remove and Rinse: Remove the pork from the pot and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water. This removes the scum and stops the cooking process.
Boiling the Pork
Now that the pork is blanched, you can boil it for your desired recipe:
-
Prepare the Boiling Liquid: In a clean pot, add fresh water, stock, or other liquids according to your recipe. You can also add more aromatics (ginger, garlic, etc.) at this stage to infuse the pork with flavor.
-
Add the Pork: Place the blanched pork into the pot.
-
Boil/Simmer: Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the pork until it is tender and reaches the desired internal temperature. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the pork and the specific cut being used.
Tips for Reduced Odor
- Fresh Pork: Start with the freshest pork possible. If the pork already has a strong odor before cooking, it will be more difficult to eliminate the smell completely.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pot: When blanching or boiling, ensure the pot isn't overcrowded. This helps maintain a consistent temperature and allows the impurities to release effectively.
- Skim the Scum: Even after blanching, some scum may still rise to the surface during the boiling process. Skim it off with a spoon to further reduce odors.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your kitchen while cooking to help dissipate any remaining odors.
By blanching the pork with aromatics before boiling, you can significantly reduce any unpleasant smells and enjoy more flavorful and appetizing cooked pork.
