Lion’s Head Meatballs

These are the ultimate meatballs, the key to which is definitely a high proportion of fatty pork. This makes them silky textured, and without it they can be quite dry. The cabbage around the meatballs gives an interesting textural variation - it is supposed to represent a lion’s mane, but you’ll need a vivid imagination!

Clay pots are Chinese casseroles with a rough-hewn, sandy finish. They are available from Asian food stores and some department stores.