Steamed Fragrant Pork for Chinese New Year

Steamed Fragrant Pork for Chinese New Year

　　Steamed Fragrant Pork for Chinese New Year

　　During Chinese New Year (i.e., the Spring Festival), steamed fragrant pork is considered the main dish in rural households across the country. Large chunks of pork are seasoned with five-spice powder, star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, fennel, as well as oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar—almost every seasoning suitable for meat is used. The meat is then placed in a large earthenware pot and steamed over an open flame for two to three hours. It's enjoyed slowly, from the beginning of the year all the way until the fifteenth day when the Lantern Festival marks the end of the New Year celebrations. This is a classic festive dish rooted in traditional rural customs.