Ếch Kho Tiêu, or Spicy Braised Frog Legs, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Vietnamese cuisine. This isn't your typical frog leg recipe; the combination of tender frog meat, fragrant lemongrass, fiery chilies, and rich coconut milk creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. It's a dish that balances heat, sweetness, and savory notes perfectly, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion. The unique blend of spices and the tender texture of the frog legs makes this a truly special dish.
Imagine succulent frog legs simmering in a rich, aromatic sauce, the intoxicating fragrance filling your kitchen. Ready to bring this incredible taste sensation to your own table? Let's dive into the step-by-step process of making authentic Ếch Kho Tiêu, guiding you through each ingredient and technique to achieve culinary perfection.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Frogs: 2 (approx. 200g)
- Green onions: 20g
- Ginger: 20g
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Shallots: 4
- Chili peppers: 2
- Sugar: 1 spoon
- MSG: 1/4 spoon
- Ground pepper
- Fish sauce: 2 spoons
- Caramel water: 1.5 spoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cooking oil
- Water: 200ml
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Marinate Frog Legs
- Cut green onions into 2cm pieces, then thinly slice.
- Cut the frog legs into bite-sized pieces.
- Puree garlic, chili peppers, and shallots in a mortar.
- Marinate the frog legs with the puree, sugar, MSG, pepper, fish sauce, and half of the caramel water. Marinate for 15-20 minutes.
Step 2. Sauté and Braise Frog Legs
- Heat cooking oil in a pot. Saute the remaining pureed ingredients until fragrant.
- Add the marinated frog legs to the pot and stir-fry until firm.
- Add 200ml of water and simmer until the sauce thickens. Add the remaining caramel water for color.
- Add salt and stir well.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
- Add green onions in the last 30 seconds of cooking.
- Serve hot with rice or porridge.
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use caramel water to enhance the color of the dish. A recipe for caramel water can be found in the video description.
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your spice preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Where can I buy frog legs?
Frog legs are available at many Asian grocery stores, some specialty butchers, and increasingly, online retailers. Check your local markets!
2. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Reduce the amount of chili to lessen the heat, or add more for extra spice. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies for a milder flavor.
With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, your homemade Ếch Kho Tiêu is sure to impress. This dish is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of Vietnamese cuisine, easily adaptable to your spice preference. Enjoy the fruits of your labor – a truly unforgettable culinary experience awaits!