Tau Eu Bak (Braised Soy Sauce Pork Belly)
- Feb 24, 2025
- 14 min read
Tau Eu Bak is a classic Malaysian dish that delivers deep, savory flavors from braised pork in soy sauce with garlic and aromatic spices. This comforting dish is a family favorite, best served with steamed rice to soak up the rich, flavorful gravy.
With tender pork belly, hard-boiled eggs, and a well-balanced sauce of soy sauce, dark soy, and a touch of sugar, Tau Eu Bak is a harmonious mix of umami and slight sweetness. The addition of spices like star anise enhances the complexity of the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
WHAT IS TAU EU BAK?
Tau Eu Bak is a traditional Malaysian and Singaporean dish, commonly found in Chinese cuisine, that consists of braised pork belly cooked in a flavorful soy-based sauce with a variety of aromatic spices. The name “Tau Eu Bak” roughly translates to “Soy Sauce Pork” in Hokkien, with “tau eu” referring to the soy sauce used in the dish, and “bak” meaning pork.
Characteristics of Tau Eu Bak:
Pork Belly: The main ingredient is usually pork belly, which is braised until tender and infused with the deep flavors of soy sauce, spices, and aromatics. The fat in the pork belly melts during cooking, adding richness and succulence to the dish.
Soy Sauce-Based Sauce: The dish’s signature flavor comes from a combination of light and dark soy sauces. The light soy sauce adds saltiness, while the dark soy sauce gives the dish its deep color and a slightly sweet flavor.
Spices and Aromatics: Common ingredients include garlic, shallots, cinnamon, star anise, cloves, and white peppercorns. These spices contribute to the complex, aromatic broth that the pork belly simmers in.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: The dish often includes hard-boiled eggs, which absorb the braising sauce and become infused with its savory and spiced flavors.
Tau Eu Bak is often served with steamed rice to soak up the rich, savory gravy, and is typically enjoyed during family meals or special occasions. It’s a comforting and hearty dish that balances savory, sweet, and umami flavors, making it a beloved choice in Southeast Asia.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPES?
Rich and Savory Flavor:
Tau Eu Bak is a deeply flavorful dish, where tender pork belly is braised in a mixture of soy sauces, spices, and aromatics. The combination of light and dark soy sauces, along with cinnamon, star anise, and cloves, creates a rich, umami-packed sauce that soaks into the meat, making every bite irresistible.
Tender, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Pork Belly:
The pork belly becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after slow cooking or pressure cooking, with the fat melting away and infusing the meat with flavor. The result is juicy, succulent pork that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Aromatic and Fragrant Spices:
The use of garlic, shallots, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and star anise fills the kitchen with a delicious fragrance as it cooks. This dish offers a warm, comforting aroma that makes it perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.
Perfectly Flavored Eggs:
The hard-boiled eggs absorb the braising liquid, becoming infused with the savory soy sauce and spices. The eggs become a flavorful treat, adding another layer of richness to the dish.
Easy to Prepare with Minimal Effort:
While the recipe requires some time for braising or slow cooking, the preparation itself is simple. After blanching the pork and sautéing the aromatics, it’s mostly hands-off time while the dish simmers, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Versatile and Adaptable:
This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to your preferences. You can substitute pork belly with other cuts of pork or even try vegetarian versions with tofu or mushrooms. The flavors remain comforting and satisfying no matter the variation.
Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers:
Tau Eu Bak is a dish that tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s perfect for meal prep, making it ideal for busy weeks or when you want to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish without much effort later on.
A Taste of Authentic Chinese Cuisine:
This recipe is a classic Chinese braised dish, bringing authentic flavors right into your kitchen. It’s a great way to explore traditional cooking methods and savor a beloved dish often served during family meals or festive occasions.
Whether you love rich, savory dishes, tender meat, or comforting meals with deep flavors, Tau Eu Bak is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTES
Ingredient quantities please refer to the recipes card (Click here)!
Pork Belly
Pork belly is a cut of meat that has both fat and meat layers, making it ideal for braising. The fat renders out during cooking, giving the dish its rich, tender texture and deep flavor.
If pork belly is not available or if you prefer a leaner cut, pork shoulder or pork ribs can be used. Pork loin is another option, though it will be less fatty and might be less tender when braised.
Light Soy Sauce
Light soy sauce is a thinner, saltier soy sauce commonly used in Asian cuisine. It adds a savory umami flavor to dishes without darkening the color too much.
For a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute. If you’re concerned about sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, which provide a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.
Dark Soy Sauce
Dark soy sauce is thicker and sweeter than light soy sauce. It adds a rich, dark color and a deep, slightly sweet umami flavor to the dish.
You can use thick soy sauce as an alternative. If dark soy sauce is unavailable, mix light soy sauce with molasses or brown sugar to mimic the rich sweetness and color.
Garlic
Garlic is a key aromatic ingredient in Tau Eu Bak, providing a fragrant, savory base for the braise.
If fresh garlic is not available, you can use garlic powder. Keep in mind that fresh garlic has a stronger aroma and flavor than the powdered form.
Shallots
Shallots have a milder, sweeter flavor compared to onions, which is perfect for braised dishes like Tau Eu Bak. They add a subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
If shallots are not available, onions can be used as a substitute. They will still add sweetness and depth, though they may be slightly stronger in flavor.
Rock Sugar
Rock sugar is a crystallized form of sugar commonly used in Chinese cooking. It melts slowly, providing a mild sweetness that balances the savory flavors without being overpowering.
If rock sugar is unavailable, you can use brown sugar or palm sugar for a similar taste, though you may need to adjust the quantity to match the level of sweetness you prefer.
Cinnamon Stick
The cinnamon stick provides a warm, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory, soy-based sauce in Tau Eu Bak.
You can use ground cinnamon as an alternative. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, but be mindful that it will dissolve into the sauce, so the flavor might be slightly different.
Star Anise
Star anise has a licorice-like flavor and is a common spice in braised and slow-cooked dishes in Chinese cuisine. It adds a distinct aromatic flavor.
If star anise is not available, you can use Chinese five-spice powder, which includes star anise as one of its components. Alternatively, cloves can be used, though their flavor is more intense, so reduce the quantity to 1-2 whole cloves.
Cloves
Cloves add a warm, slightly sweet and aromatic flavor to the dish. They are used sparingly due to their strong flavor.
If you don’t have whole cloves, you can use ground cloves in small quantities (about 1/8 teaspoon), but be careful as ground cloves are more concentrated.
White Peppercorns
White pepper is milder and less pungent than black pepper, with a slightly floral, peppery flavor. It is often used in Chinese cooking for its subtle heat.
Ground white pepper can be used instead of whole peppercorns, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. Alternatively, black pepper can be used, though the flavor will be stronger and more pronounced.
Hard-Boiled Eggs
The eggs are added to the braised pork to soak up the flavorful sauce. The eggs also provide a nice contrast in texture and enhance the dish’s richness.
If you want a vegetarian version, you can omit the eggs. However, if you want a similar texture, tofu can be used as an alternative, though tofu will not absorb the flavors as well as eggs.
Water
Water is used to create the braising liquid that simmers the pork belly and allows the flavors to meld together.
You can replace the water with chicken broth or vegetable stock for a richer base that adds more flavor to the braising liquid.
These substitutes allow you to make adjustments based on the ingredients you have available while still capturing the essence of Tau Eu Bak’s delicious, savory flavors.
RECIPES TIPS
Choose the Right Cut of Pork: For the best results, use pork belly as it has a good balance of fat and meat, which helps create tender, juicy pieces. You can also use pork shoulder if you prefer less fat, but pork belly gives the dish its signature richness.
Adjust the Sweetness: The rock sugar adds a subtle sweetness to the dish. If you prefer a sweeter braise, you can increase the amount of sugar, but be careful not to overpower the savory soy sauces.
Reduce the Bitterness: If you find that the soy sauce mixture has a slightly bitter taste, balance it out with a small amount of sugar or a dash of honey. You can also adjust the dark soy sauce to ensure it doesn’t become too strong or bitter.
Enhance the Flavor with Spices: The combination of cinnamon, star anise, and cloves is key to the rich, aromatic flavor of this dish. Don’t skip these spices as they provide the authentic, warming essence. Adjust their amounts to your taste, but typically these should be used sparingly.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: If you’re adding eggs, make sure to cool the eggs in cold water immediately after boiling to prevent them from overcooking. Steaming them in the pot allows them to absorb the braising sauce, giving them extra flavor.
For a Thicker Sauce: If the sauce isn’t thick enough for your liking after slow cooking, you can increase the heat and simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce. Alternatively, you can mix 1 tsp of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it quickly.
Make It Ahead of Time: Tau Eu Bak tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. You can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it. When reheating, simmer gently over low heat to preserve the tenderness of the pork.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the braised pork and eggs with a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or noodles. A side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad will complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Pressure Cooking Option: If you’re short on time, you can use a pressure cooker instead of slow cooking. The pork will cook in about 15 minutes under high pressure, saving you time while still achieving tender, flavorful results.
Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the texture and flavor.
By following these tips, you can perfect your Tau Eu Bak and ensure a delicious, comforting meal every time.
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Full recipes and instructions please refer to the recipes card (Click here)!
Blanch the Pork Belly: Start by placing 1200g of water in a large pot or mixing bowl. Add the pork belly to the pot and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, allow the pork belly to blanch for about 15 minutes over medium heat. After blanching, remove the pork belly, rinse it under cold water, and set it aside.
Sauté Garlic and Shallots: In the same pot, heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add garlic cloves and shallots, sautéing for 5 minutes or until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t burn.
Cook the Pork with Sauces and Spices: Add the blanched pork belly back to the pot along with light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, cinnamon stick, star anise, cloves, white peppercorns, and rock sugar. Add 400g of water to the mixture and stir to combine. Place hard-boiled eggs in a steamer and set it over the pot, allowing the eggs to steam while the pork simmers.
Slow Cook the Pork: Cover the pot and set it on low heat to slow cook for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together and the pork to become tender. Alternatively, if you have a pressure cooker, you can transfer the ingredients into the pressure cooker and cook it under high pressure for about 15 minutes.
Prepare the Eggs: While the pork is cooking, place the eggs in cold water to cool. Once cooled, peel the eggs and set them aside.
Colour the Eggs with Gravy: Once the pork is cooked and tender, transfer the pork and its gravy to a thermal serving bowl. Add the peeled eggs to the bowl and let them sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the eggs to absorb the rich braising sauce.
Serve: Once the eggs have absorbed the flavors, serve the Tau Eu Bak warm, with the pork belly and eggs nestled together in the savory sauce. Enjoy with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
This step-by-step guide will help you create a flavorful, nutritious soup with tender lotus root, smooth arrowroot, and crunchy peanuts.
WHAT ELSE TO SERVE WITH ?
Here are a few dishes that pair well with this soup:
Steamed Jasmine Rice:
A bowl of fluffy jasmine rice pairs perfectly with Tau Eu Bak. The rice soaks up the rich, savory sauce from the braised pork belly and eggs, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Stir-Fried Vegetables:
Lightly stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, Chinese broccoli (gai lan), or spinach provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the braised pork. These vegetables add color, texture, and a touch of bitterness to balance the savory flavors.
Pickled Vegetables:
A side of pickled vegetables, such as pickled cucumber or kimchi, complements the savory and slightly sweet flavors of Tau Eu Bak. The tanginess helps cut through the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing element.
Chinese-Style Fried Tofu:
Crispy fried tofu or silken tofu served on the side provides a soft, mild contrast to the bold flavors of the pork. The tofu can also absorb some of the braising liquid if desired.
Braised Mushrooms:
Mushrooms, particularly shiitake or button mushrooms, braised in the same sauce as the pork or with a light soy sauce, complement the deep flavors of Tau Eu Bak and add a satisfying umami component to the meal.
Soup:
A light, clear soup, such as a simple egg drop soup or a broth-based soup with tofu and greens, would balance the richness of Tau Eu Bak while keeping the meal light.
Chinese Pancakes:
Soft Chinese pancakes or mantou (steamed buns) are another great accompaniment. You can use them to scoop up the braised pork or dip them in the flavorful sauce.
Herbal Tea or Chrysanthemum Tea:
To balance the meal’s richness, serve with a mild herbal tea such as chrysanthemum tea or oolong tea. These teas aid digestion and offer a light, refreshing note to end the meal.
These side dishes enhance the main course and provide a balanced, well-rounded meal. Whether you prefer a light vegetable side or a savory carb accompaniment, these options will complement the rich flavors of Tau Eu Bak perfectly.
MADE AHEAD INSTRUCTIONS
Preparing in Advance:
Cook in Advance:
Follow the recipe steps to fully cook the Tau Eu Bak.
Allow the dish to cool to room temperature.
Store:
Transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Before Serving:
From the Refrigerator:
Place the Tau Eu Bak in a saucepan and reheat over low to medium heat.
Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Heat until thoroughly warmed.
From the Freezer:
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat as described above.
Improving Flavor with Advance Preparation:
Flavor Development: Tau Eu Bak often tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld together.
Skimming Fat: After refrigeration, the fat will solidify on the surface. You can easily skim it off for a lighter dish if preferred.
Serving After Reheating:
Garnish with fresh spring onions or coriander before serving for added freshness.
Pair with steamed rice or noodles to complement the dish.
These instructions make Tau Eu Bak a convenient and flavorful option for meal prep or entertaining!
STORAGE & REHEATING
Storage and Reheating Instructions:
Refrigeration:
Allow the Tau Eu Bak to cool completely.
Transfer to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing:
Cool the dish completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Leave some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating:
From the Refrigerator:
Reheat the Tau Eu Bak in a saucepan over low to medium heat.
Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Heat until warmed through.
From the Freezer:
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat on the stove as described above or in the microwave in a microwave-safe container.
Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Additional Tips:
Avoid Boiling: When reheating, keep the heat moderate to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Adjust Consistency: Add a bit of water, broth, or soy sauce if the sauce has reduced too much during storage.
Re-season if Needed: After reheating, taste and adjust the seasoning as the flavors might mellow during storage.
These steps ensure your Tau Eu Bak remains delicious and flavorful even after storage!
RECIPES FAQS
Can I use other cuts of pork for Tau Eu Bak?
Yes, you can! Pork belly is traditional due to its rich and tender texture, but you can also use pork shoulder, pork ribs, or even pork loin for a leaner option. Adjust the cooking time as leaner cuts may require less simmering.
Can I make Tau Eu Bak in advance?
Absolutely. Tau Eu Bak tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this in a pressure cooker or slow cooker?
Pressure Cooker: Cook on high pressure for 15-20 minutes, followed by 5 mins natural release. Slow Cooker: Simmer on low for 2 hours or high for 1 hours.
Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, you can substitute pork with chicken thighs or drumsticks for a lighter version. The cooking time will be shorter for chicken.
What’s the best soy sauce for this recipe?
A combination of light soy sauce for saltiness and dark soy sauce for color is ideal. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add more dark soy sauce or a bit of sweet soy sauce.
What can I serve with Tau Eu Bak?
Tau Eu Bak pairs wonderfully with: Pickled vegetables for added crunch and tang, Steamed jasmine rice, Garlic fried rice, Blanched greens (e.g., bok choy, spinach, broccoli)
Why is my sauce too thick or too thin?
Too Thin: Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce.
Too Thick: Add a bit of water or stock to loosen the sauce while reheating.
Can I adjust the level of sweetness or saltiness?
Of course! Adjust the sugar, soy sauce, or even add a splash of oyster sauce to suit your taste.
Can I skip the hard-boiled eggs?
Yes, but the eggs soak up the flavors beautifully and are highly recommended. You can also try tofu or potatoes as alternatives.
How do I know when the pork is done?
The pork should be tender enough to cut easily with a fork but not falling apart completely. Braising for 60-90 minutes is typically ideal.
Can I adjust the portion size of the recipes?
You can adjust the recipe by clicking the serving size in the recipe in recipes card to your liking!If you can find the exact portion that you like, you can, also, adjust this in manual mode. Make sure that the cooking times and temperatures have been adjusted for different quantities of ingredients. Even preparation time (such as for cutting) may be different than in the original recipe. Please do not pass the max line indicated inside of the mixing bowl. The capacity of the mixing bowl is 2.2 liters.
This recipes is compatible with which model of Thermomix®?
This recipes suitable for TM31 / TM5 / TM6
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