Step 1

Heat oil in a large straight-sided sauté pan on very high heat until oil begins to smoke. Sear pork in batches, leaving plenty of open space in the pan, until a light crust forms, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.

Step 2

When last batch of pork is seared, return all pork to pan and add soy sauce, vinegar, coconut milk, bay leaves, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a bare simmer and cook, covered, for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until pork is very tender but not completely falling apart.

Step 3

Remove pork from pan and set aside. Strain sauce into a fat separator or measuring cup and skim off fat, reserving for another use. Return sauce to pan, add about 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and cook on medium high heat until sauce reduces to less than 1 cup.

Step 4

Return pork to thickened sauce and add salt and vinegar to taste. Serve with rice and chopped scallions for garnish.