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Best Easy Shandong Braised Sea Cucumber Recipe

Name: Best Easy Shandong Braised Sea Cucumber Recipe
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 160 g
Ingredients: rehydrated sea cucumber 4 pieces; chicken broth 2 cups; pork belly (uncooked) 4 oz; scallion 2 pieces; fresh ginger 4 slices; shiitake mushroom 2 pieces; Shaoxing wine 1 tbsp; light soy sauce 1.5 tbsp; oyster sauce 1 tbsp; sugar 1 tsp; cornstarch 1 tbsp; sesame oil 1 tsp; white pepper 0.25 tsp

Shandong braised sea cucumber in a rich, savory sauce is a luxurious, high protein delicacy. A fresh, elegant family banquet dish with collagen-rich benefits.

Cook 65 min Difficulty HARD 230 kcal

#high protein #mediterranean

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

rehydrated sea cucumber 4 pieces
chicken broth 2 cups
pork belly (uncooked) 4 oz
scallion 2 pieces
fresh ginger 4 slices
shiitake mushroom 2 pieces

Seasonings/Sauce

Shaoxing wine 1 tbsp
light soy sauce 1.5 tbsp
oyster sauce 1 tbsp
sugar 1 tsp
cornstarch 1 tbsp
sesame oil 1 tsp
white pepper 0.25 tsp

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 9 g 16%

Protein 22 g 38%

Fat 10 g 46%

Serving size 160g

Cooking steps

1

Blanch the rehydrated sea cucumber in boiling water with 2 slices of ginger and 1 scallion for 3 minutes to remove any fishy odor, then rinse and set aside.
2

In a heavy saucepan, heat 1 cup of chicken broth and add pork belly, remaining ginger slices, and the shiitake mushrooms. Simmer over medium-low heat for 15 minutes for rich flavor extraction.
3

Remove pork belly and aromatics, then add sea cucumber, remaining chicken broth, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and white pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer on low heat.
4

Cover and gently braise the sea cucumber for 25-30 minutes, occasionally basting with sauce. Avoid rapid boiling to prevent tough texture.
5

Mix cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water. Remove sea cucumber, increase heat to medium, and whisk in cornstarch slurry. Stir until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, then drizzle with sesame oil.
6

Plate the sea cucumber and mushrooms. Spoon rich sauce over the top and garnish with thinly sliced scallion.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient that gives Shandong braised sea cucumber its signature texture and flavor?

The standout ingredient is rehydrated sea cucumber. Its unique, bouncy texture and ability to absorb savory flavors from sauces are what define the dish. The pork belly and chicken broth add depth, but the sea cucumber remains the focus for luxurious mouthfeel and visual appeal.

Q. Why is gentle heat control important during braising sea cucumber?

Gentle heat is essential so the collagen-rich sea cucumber stays tender and does not toughen. Simmering over low heat avoids rapid boiling, ensuring the sauce permeates evenly and the sea cucumber maintains its prized soft texture.

Q. How do I prevent the sea cucumber from becoming rubbery or overcooked?

Avoid high heat and do not overcook during braising. Keeping the liquid at a gentle simmer and basting helps preserve its delicate, luxurious bite. Blanching beforehand also removes impurities without sacrificing texture.

Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving of this dish?

Each serving contains approximately 230 kcal and 22g of protein, making this a high-protein, collagen-rich option for special occasions or elegant family meals.

Best Easy Shandong Braised Sea Cucumber Recipe

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