Step 1

Arrange a rack in the center of your oven, and preheat to 375°F/190°C. In a large Dutch oven or other cast iron pot, heat the oil over medium high heat. Brown the pork in batches (don’t crowd the pot), until it’s browned on all sides.

Step 2

Add all the pork back to the Dutch oven, along with the Shaoxing wine, sugar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, bay leaves, star anise, and water. Stir.

Step 3

Cover and bring to a boil on the stove. Once boiling, place the Dutch oven into the oven uncovered. Cook for 2½ hours, checking the pork every 45 minutes or so (stir and add more water if the pot starts drying out), until the pork is tender and falling apart.