Introduction

Vietnamese Caramel Pork is a delightful dish that originates from Vietnam, known for its rich flavors and tender meat. This recipe features succulent pieces of pork belly cooked in a sweet and savory caramel sauce, creating a harmony of tastes that is incredibly satisfying. The dish is often served with steamed rice and vegetables, making it a complete meal that is both comforting and indulgent.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pork Belly – 500g, cut into bite-sized pieces
Fish Sauce – 2 tablespoons
Brown Sugar – 3 tablespoons
Vegetable Oil – 1 tablespoon
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Shallots – 2, finely chopped
Water – 1 cup
Black Pepper – 1 teaspoon
Chopped Green Onions – for garnish
Fresh Chili – for garnish (optional)

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Pork

Cut the pork shoulder into small cubes, each about 1 to 2 inches in size.

Make the Caramel Sauce

In a large, heavy-based pot or wok, heat the sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color.

Add the Pork

Once the caramel is ready, add the pork cubes to the pot. Stir well to coat the pork evenly in the caramel sauce.

Add Aromatics

Mix in minced garlic and diced shallots. Sauté for a couple of minutes until fragrant.

Add Fish Sauce and Water

Pour in the fish sauce and add water to cover the pork. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Pork

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until the pork is tender.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add sugar or fish sauce according to your preference.

Prepare for Serving

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

Notes

Pork Cut

Using a fattier cut of pork will yield a more flavorful and moist dish.

Caramel Color

Be careful not to burn the sugar when making the caramel. Stop cooking as soon as it reaches an amber color.

Consistency Preference

For a thicker sauce, let the dish simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice and pickled vegetables for a balance of flavors.

Cook techniques

Caramelization

Caramelization is the process of cooking sugar until it melts and becomes golden brown. In this recipe, sugar is cooked until it turns a rich amber color, providing depth of flavor to the dish.

Stir-frying

Stir-frying involves cooking food quickly over high heat in a small amount of oil. This technique helps retain the flavor and texture of the pork while allowing it to absorb the caramel sauce.

Marinating

Marinating the pork allows it to soak up the flavors of the seasonings and enhance tenderness. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavors will become.

Simmering

Simmering gently cooks the pork in a flavorful liquid, allowing the meat to become tender and absorb the caramel sauce deeply, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.

Deglazing

Deglazing is a technique used to dissolve the browned bits in the pan after searing. This adds flavor to the sauce and ensures that nothing goes to waste.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of meat such as chicken or beef, but you may need to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with Vietnamese caramel pork?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the caramel sauce and marinate the pork in advance. Just cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

The Vietnamese Caramel Pork is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is an excellent choice for those looking to explore Vietnamese cuisine, offering a rich cultural experience through its taste. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside pickled vegetables to enhance the meal further.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vietnamese Pho

A fragrant broth with noodles, herbs, and your choice of meat makes this a classic dish that pairs well with caramel pork.

Spring Rolls

Light and fresh, these rolls filled with shrimp, vegetables, and vermicelli noodles are a great complement.

Vietnamese Green Papaya Salad

A crunchy and refreshing salad that balances the rich flavors of the caramel pork with its tangy dressing.

Steamed Jasmine Rice

A simple side dish that soaks up the sauce from the pork, making every bite enjoyable.

Grilled Lemongrass Chicken

This dish brings a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the caramel.

Banana Sticky Rice

For dessert, this sweet treat is a perfect way to end the meal, providing a delightful contrast to the savory main course.

Vietnamese Iced Coffee

A strong, refreshing beverage that complements the meal with its robust flavor and sweetness.