Vịt Kho Tôm, or Braised Duck with Pineapple, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Vietnamese cuisine. The sweet and savory combination of tender duck, juicy pineapple, and aromatic spices creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. This classic recipe balances rich, succulent duck meat with the bright acidity of pineapple, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. Imagine tender duck falling off the bone, bathed in a luscious, slightly sweet and tangy sauce – a perfect balance that will leave you wanting more. The fragrant blend of fish sauce, garlic, shallots, and other secret ingredients elevates this dish to a masterpiece.
This incredible Vietnamese dish is easier to make than you might think. Ready to experience the magic of Vịt Kho Tơm for yourself? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this deliciousness in your own kitchen.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Duck meat: 2 kg
- Pineapple: 600 g
- Fresh coconut water: 1 liter
- Fish sauce: 130 ml
- Protein: 10 degrees
- Sugar: 4 tablespoons
- MSG: 2 teaspoons
- Chopped chili: 1
- Shredded ginger: 30 pieces
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed ginger: 50
- White wine: 150 ml
- Garlic: 1 tablespoon
- Shallots: 1 tablespoon
- Caramel sauce: 2 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate the Duck
- Remove any remaining hair. Massage the duck with crushed ginger, white wine, salt, and sugar. Rinse thoroughly.
- Cut the duck meat into bite-sized pieces. Marinate with fish sauce, sugar, and other spices.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Pineapple
- Cut the pineapple into large pieces.
- Heat cooking oil in a pot. Add remaining ginger, garlic, and shallots; stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add the pineapple and stir-fry.
Step 3. Braising the Duck
- Add the marinated duck meat and stir well until firm.
- Add 1 liter of fresh coconut water and 500 ml of filtered water. Add the remaining spices (adjust to taste).
- Bring to a boil, then skim off the foam. Reduce heat and simmer until the duck is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 4. Finishing Touches
- Before turning off the heat, add more chili peppers (optional).
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use sweet coconut water for a better flavor.
- Adjust the amount of fish sauce and sugar to your liking.
- Don't over-marinate the duck with caramel sauce, as it can make the dish too dark.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, canned pineapple works well, but drain it thoroughly to avoid excess liquid making the sauce too thin. Choose pineapple chunks or rings.
2. How can I make this dish less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar or pineapple slightly. You can also add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice at the end to balance the sweetness with acidity.
Vịt Kho Tôm, with its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, is a dish that will transport you to Vietnam with every bite. This recipe, while seemingly complex, is surprisingly approachable and rewarding for home cooks of all levels. So gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to create this unforgettable Vietnamese classic.