Craving a dish that's both incredibly flavorful and satisfyingly crispy? Look no further than this recipe for Crispy Pork Belly with Fish Sauce, a Vietnamese culinary gem. The irresistible combination of perfectly rendered pork belly, its crackling skin yielding to juicy, tender meat, and the pungent, umami-rich fish sauce creates a symphony of taste that will leave you wanting more. This dish is a true testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated to extraordinary heights through precise cooking techniques. The balance of sweet, savory, and salty notes is expertly achieved, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Imagine the glistening, golden-brown skin, the succulent meat falling apart at the slightest touch – this is the experience awaiting you. Ready to transform ordinary pork belly into an unforgettable culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to recreate this delicious Vietnamese delight at home.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Basket
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Frying pan
- Spoon
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Pork belly: 500g
- Cucumber: 1
- Tomato: 1
- Purple onions: 4
- Purple garlic: 4
- Ginger: 30g
- Shallots
- Salt
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Fish sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Water: 2 tablespoons
- Chili sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Tomato paste: 1/2 tablespoon
- MSG: 1/3 teaspoon
- Ground pepper: 1/3 teaspoon
- Dried chili powder: 1 tablespoon
- Lemon: 1/2
- Cooking oil
- Crispy flour: 1 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate the Pork Belly
- Wash and drain the pork belly. Cut into 2-2.5cm thick slices.
- Boil the pork belly with shallots, a teaspoon of salt for 15 minutes.
- Remove the boiled pork, let it cool and drain. Marinate with 1/2 spoon of salt and the juice of half a lemon.
- Let the marinated pork dry completely. If you have sunshine, dry it outside; otherwise, use a lighter for about 30 minutes, flipping frequently.
Step 2. Make the Fish Sauce Caramel
- 2 tablespoons sugar, 3 tablespoons fish sauce, 2 tablespoons water, 1 tablespoon chili sauce, 1/2 tablespoon tomato paste, 1/3 teaspoon MSG, 1/3 teaspoon ground pepper, and 1 tablespoon dried chili powder.
- Sauté minced garlic in 2 tablespoons of oil until fragrant.
- Add the sauce mixture, simmer on low heat until it boils and thickens.
Step 3. Fry the Pork Belly to Perfection
- Heat cooking oil in a pan. Add a spoonful of crispy flour before frying to prevent oiliness.
- Fry the pork belly on medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove, let cool. Fry again on high heat for a few dozen seconds per side, until extra crispy.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Add the fried pork belly to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Simmer until the sauce is almost dry.
- Serve hot with rice.
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Choose pork belly with a little fat for juicier, more flavorful results.
- Press the fried pork belly down on the pan to make the skin crispier.
- Use low heat when cooking the sauce to prevent burning.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pork for this recipe?
While pork belly is ideal for its fat content which renders to create crispy skin, you can try using a cut with some fat, like pork shoulder, but the skin won't be as crispy.
2. How can I ensure the pork belly skin gets extra crispy?
Pat the skin completely dry before cooking, score it well, and ensure it’s exposed to high heat, preferably starting with a searing step to render the fat effectively.
This Crispy Pork Belly with Fish Sauce recipe is a rewarding culinary adventure, showcasing the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of the skin and the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of the pork, a perfect balance that will impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients and embark on this delicious journey today!