Introduction
Discover the rich flavors of Lions Head Casserole (Shih Tzu Tou), a culinary delight that captures both tradition and taste. This dish is more than just food; it’s an experience, weaving together the essence of Chinese cuisine with tender ingredients like shiitake mushrooms and Napa cabbage.
Tips for this recipe
To achieve the perfect Lions Head Casserole, start by carefully prepping your vegetables. Using a sharp kitchen knife on a cutting board ensures precision in size and shape. Keeping your workspace clean is crucial. Remember to measure your ingredients accurately for consistent flavor.
Why you will love this recipe
Lions Head Casserole stands out with its harmonious blend of textures and taste, reminiscent of a childhood meal yet sophisticated enough to impress. The tender Napa cabbage contrasts beautifully with the crunchy water chestnuts and savory meat mixture. This dish isn’t just hearty—it’s comfort food reimagined.
Ingredients
- 8 large dried shiitake mushrooms (3/4 ounces)
- 2 cups boiling-hot water
- 1 pound ground pork butt (not lean)
- 1 large bunch scallions (white and pale green parts only), finely chopped
- 6 large fresh water chestnuts, peeled and finely chopped, or 10 canned whole water chestnuts, rinsed, drained, and finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine (preferably Shaoxing) or medium-dry Sherry
- 2 teaspoons Asian sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped peeled fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 (2 1/2- to 3-pound) head Napa cabbage
- 2/3 cup peanut or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth (16 fluid ounces)
- Accompaniment: steamed white rice a well-seasoned 14-inch flat-bottomed wok
Advised equipment
- Kitchen Knife – A sharp kitchen knife is essential for prepping ingredients, including cutting vegetables and preparing meat.
- Cutting Board – Protects countertops while providing a stable surface to chop vegetables and herbs.
- Chef’s Pan – Ideal for sautéing vegetables or browning meats due to its versatility in heat distribution.
- Casserole Dish – A deep baking dish suitable for oven-baked casseroles and layered dishes like Lions Head Casserole.
- Stirring Spoon – Used for stirring ingredients together smoothly in cooking processes.
- Mixing Bowls – Large enough to combine all ingredients, useful for preparation stages of the recipe.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Essential for accurately measuring out ingredients according to the recipe specifications.
- Oven Mitts – Protective gloves made from heat-resistant materials, used while handling hot baking dishes in an oven.
- Cutting Board – As mentioned earlier, a key tool for preparing ingredients safely and efficiently on clean surfaces.
- Chef’s Knife – For versatile chopping and slicing tasks during food prep, as required by many recipes including Lions Head Casserole.
- Saucepan or Skillet – Useful for sautéing ingredients before baking. The choice between a saucepan and skillet depends on the cooking method specified in your recipe.
- Baking Sheet/Parchment Paper – For lining pans to prevent sticking, which can be helpful if parts of your casserole need extra separation or easy removal from baking dishes.
- Rolling Pin – While not directly used in Lions Head Casserole, a rolling pin is versatile for preparing doughs and pastries that might require such a tool in various recipes you may explore in the future.
History of the recipe
The Lion’s Head Casserole, known as Shih Tzu Tou in Mandarin, has roots deeply embedded in Chinese culinary tradition. Its name evokes imagery of a lion’s head with its majestic mane—a metapmor for the richly layered and textured dish that it represents.
Fun facts about this recipe
The Lion’s Head Casserole is more than a meal; it’s an art form. Each element, from the finely chopped shiitake mushrooms to the meticulously layered cabbage, contributes to its storied past and beloved status in Chinese cooking.
