Rinse the pork leg pieces thoroughly under cold water and set aside.

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Pour 2 tbsp of cooking oil and sear the pork leg until fat renders and skin turns golden brown. Set aside.

Heat oil in a separate pot over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onion until softened and fragrant.

Add the pork leg pieces and sear for 1-2 minutes.

Pour in the soy sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes for the meat to absorb the flavor.

Add 3 cups of water, the bay leaves and whole peppercorns. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Add the vinegar, do not stir. Cover the pot and simmer for about 1 - 1.5 hour, or until the pork is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Stir in the banana blossom (if using) and brown sugar. Let it simmer until they soften and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes to thicken the sauce and infuse the pork with extra flavor.

Once the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and serve with steamed rice.