Step 1

Crush garlic and coriander root with a mortar and pestle.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the garlic & coriander root mixture, Chinese five spice powder, white pepper, palm sugar, sesame oil, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, and tapioca starch. Add the food coloring and thoroughly mix one more time.

Step 3

Add pork and coat each part with the sauce. Marinate in your refrigerator overnight. (Keep the marinade sauce – don’t discard it!!)

Step 4

There are two cooking methods for the pork:Use an air fryer; place the meat in a single layer and cook at 320°F / 160°C, then flip and cook the other side for 5 more minutes. This is the method I like best.Grill over charcoal until the pork is fully cooked, flip occasionally to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can use a grilling pan.

Step 5

Add palm sugar, sesame oil, sesame seeds, dark soy sauce, and light soy sauce into the leftover marinade sauce and mix thoroughly.

Step 6

Move the sauce to a pot or wok over medium heat. Once it starts bubbling, pour in water. If the sauce isn’t your desired thickness, consider mixing the optional tapioca starch with 5 fl oz of water. Add gradually and stir until it’s just right.

Step 7

Slice the pork against the grain into thin strips. Serve immediately (see how to serve).