Vietnamese Garlicky Caramelized Pork (Thịt Kho Tiêu)
Details
A sweet, savory, and garlicky Vietnamese classic that's pure comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients
Instructions
Marinate the Pork
In a bowl, combine the cut pork with minced garlic, sliced shallots, sliced chilies, fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the pork is coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 1-2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Caramelize the Sugar
Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add an additional tablespoon of sugar to the hot oil. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar melts and turns into a deep amber caramel. Be careful not to burn it.
Brown the Pork
Immediately add the marinated pork to the caramel. Stir quickly to coat the pork evenly with the caramel. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is nicely browned on all sides.
Braise the Pork
Pour in the coconut water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it braise for 45-60 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened and reduced to a rich, glossy consistency. If adding hard-boiled eggs, add them during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking so they absorb the flavors.
Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the caramelized pork and eggs hot with steamed jasmine rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh black pepper and additional sliced chilies if desired.
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