What is "braised pork belly" in Chinese cuisine, and how is it typically prepared?

Braised pork belly, or “hong shao rou,” is a beloved Chinese dish made from pork belly that is slowly cooked in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, and various spices such as star anise and cinnamon. The cooking process results in tender, flavorful pork with a glossy, caramelized sauce. The pork belly is often simmered until the fat is rendered and the meat is infused with a rich, savory-sweet flavor. It is typically served with steamed rice and sometimes accompanied by vegetables.