China's extensive history unfolds through millennia, featuring influential dynasties, philosophical doctrines like Confucianism and Daoism, and monumental achievements such as the Great Wall. From the unification under the Qin Dynasty to the cultural peaks of the Tang and Song, China's historical journey is profound. In the 20th century, seismic shifts occurred with the end of imperial rule, the establishment of the Republic of China, and the rise of the People's Republic of China in 1949, marking the ascendancy of the Communist Party.

Modern China is a global force, blending its ancient cultural roots with rapid economic and technological advancements, shaping its role as a key player on the world stage.

5 Fun Facts about China

Pandas Diplomacy

China is renowned for its efforts in panda diplomacy. The country often gifts giant pandas to other nations as a symbol of goodwill. These adorable ambassadors contribute to international cooperation in conservation and research.

2. World's Longest Wall

The Great Wall of China, an iconic symbol of the country, is the longest wall in the world. It stretches over 13,000 miles (21,000 kilometers) and was built over several dynasties to protect against invasions.

3. Invention of Paper

Cai Lun, an eunuch in the Han Dynasty, is credited with inventing paper around 105 CE. His contribution revolutionized communication, education, and eventually led to the development of printing

4. Tea Tradition

China is the birthplace of tea. Legend has it that Emperor Shen Nong discovered tea around 2737 BCE when tea leaves blew into his pot of boiling water. Today, China remains a global leader in tea production and consumption.

5. The Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army, discovered in the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, is a vast collection of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots. This archaeological marvel was created to accompany the emperor in the afterlife.

How To Make Hong Shao Rou (Braised Pork Belly)

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) pork belly, skin-on, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons cooking oil
3 slices ginger
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (Chinese rice wine)
2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
2 tablespoons rock sugar or granulated sugar
1 star anise
2 dried bay leaves
1 cinnamon stick
1 cup hot water
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Hong Shao Rou, or Red-Braised Pork Belly, is a popular and flavorful dish in Chinese cuisine. Here's a simple recipe to make Hong Shao Rou at home.

Instructions

Prepare the pork:
- In a pot of boiling water, blanch the pork belly pieces for about 5 minutes. This helps remove impurities and excess fat. Drain and set aside.

Sear the pork:
- Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Add the blanched pork pieces and sear until browned on all sides.

Aromatics:
- Push the pork to the side and add the ginger and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté briefly until fragrant.

Deglaze with wine:
- Pour the Shaoxing wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Add soy sauces and sugars:
- Add the dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, and rock sugar (or granulated sugar). Stir to coat the pork evenly.

Spices:
- Toss in the star anise, bay leaves, and cinnamon stick. Stir well to infuse the spices
Braise:
- Pour in the hot water, ensuring that the pork is mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Garnish

Once the pork is tender, uncover and let the sauce reduce further if needed. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Serve:
- Hong Shao Rou is typically served with steamed rice or alongside other Chinese dishes. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors!

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5 Fun Facts about China

Pandas Diplomacy

2. World's Longest Wall

3. Invention of Paper

4. Tea Tradition

5. The Terracotta Army

How To Make Hong Shao Rou (Braised Pork Belly)

Instructions

Prepare the pork:

Sear the pork:

Aromatics:

Deglaze with wine:

Add soy sauces and sugars:

Spices:

Braise:

Garnish

Serve: