Shih Tzu Tou ( Lion’s Head Casserole)

May 19, 2023May 19, 20230 3
Shih Tzu Tou (Lion's Head Casserole) recipe for a comforting Chinese dinner
in Main

Prep

30 min

Cook

60 min

Ready In

90 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

8 large dried shiitake mushrooms , about 3/4 oz
2 cups boiling water
1 lb ground pork butt ( not lean )
1 bunch scallion , white and pale green parts only , finely chopped
10 canned water chestnuts , rinsed , drained , and finely chopped
1 tablespoon chinese rice wine or 1 medium dry sherry
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoons fresh ginger , finely chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 head napa cabbage
2/3 cup peanut oil ( or vegetable oil )
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
4
Calories
790
Sugar
4g
Fat
64g
Shih Tzu Tou, also known as Lion's Head Casserole, is a classic Chinese dish that originated in Jiangsu province. It is named for the large pork meatballs that resemble a lion's head, surrounded by a bed of cabbage leaves resembling a lion's mane. The dish is traditionally served family-style, with the pork and cabbage simmered in a savory broth or gravy. Shih Tzu Tou is a popular comfort food in China, especially during the colder months, and is often served for special occasions and family gatherings. The dish can be customized by adding ingredients such as bamboo shoots, dried bean curd, and chestnuts.

Instructions

1.Soak the shiitake mushrooms in the boiling water for 1 hour, until softened. Reserve the soaking liquid, then remove and discard the stems and coarsely chop the caps.
2.In a large bowl, combine the pork, scallions, water chestnuts, rice wine or sherry, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well, then add the chopped mushrooms and 1/4 cup of the reserved soaking liquid.
3.Peel off 10 large outer leaves from the napa cabbage and set them aside. Cut the remaining cabbage into 1-inch pieces.
4.Heat 1/2 cup of the peanut oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Fry half of the cabbage for 5-7 minutes, until it is wilted and lightly caramelized, then transfer it to a large plate with a slotted spoon. Repeat with the remaining cabbage.
5.In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, black pepper, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of reserved mushroom soaking liquid.
6.Pour the chicken broth into the skillet or Dutch oven and bring it to a simmer. Add the browned cabbage, then shape the pork mixture into 4 large meatballs and nestle them into the cabbage. Cover and simmer over low heat for 40-45 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
7.Divide the pork meatballs and cabbage among 4 bowls, then spoon some of the broth over each bowl. Serve immediately.

PROS

Shih Tzu Tou is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a cold winter night.

It is packed with protein, vegetables, and flavorful shiitake mushrooms, and can easily be made ahead of time.

CONS

This dish can be quite heavy and high in calories due to the ground pork, frying the cabbage, and using oil for cooking.

It may not be suitable for those on a low-fat or low-carb diet, and should be enjoyed in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Shih Tzu Tou contains several healthy ingredients, such as shiitake mushrooms, scallions, and napa cabbage.
Shiitake mushrooms are known for their immune-boosting properties and contain beta-glucans, which may support healthy cholesterol levels. Scallions are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, while napa cabbage is high in vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate.

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