After Zhao Laoliu left for home, Du Chunzhi took out the items she had bought one by one. She prepared the pork belly, skinning and slicing it before rubbing it with seasonings and sealing it in a jar.
The remaining meat was sliced thin, braised in a flavorful sauce, and pan-fried until golden. When she plated it, the rich aroma of the meat filled the room.
By the time it was dark, Du Chunzhi picked up the bowl of meat and headed for the front door. As she opened it, she heard voices coming from beneath a large tree not far away. It was just a group of neighboring villagers, chatting and bragging after their evening meal.
Chapter 17