Craving a truly unforgettable Thai culinary experience? Look no further than this recipe for incredibly crispy deep-fried pork belly. This dish, a beloved street food staple and a celebration of bold flavors, boasts perfectly rendered fat that crackles with each bite, contrasting beautifully with the juicy, tender meat within. The simple yet impactful seasoning elevates the pork's natural richness, resulting in a dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. Prepare to be amazed by the depth of flavor achieved with minimal ingredients.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy preparations. This recipe simplifies the process of achieving that coveted crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth interior. With just a few readily available ingredients and a straightforward approach, you'll be enjoying authentically delicious Thai crispy pork belly in no time. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Sharp knife or fork
- Bowl
- Deep fryer or pot for deep frying
- Paper towels
- Scissors or knife for cutting
Ingredients
- Pork Belly: 1 piece
- Egg: 1
- Fish Sauce: To taste
- Pepper: To taste
- Chicken Stock: To taste
- Tempura Flour: To taste
- Vinegar: A small amount (optional)
- Cooking Oil: Enough for deep frying
- Sticky Rice & Som Tum: For serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork Belly
- Wash the pork belly and place it in a bowl. Pierce the fat side with a sharp knife or fork to allow the sauce to be absorbed.
- Add the egg, fish sauce, pepper, chicken stock, and tempura flour to the bowl. Mix well to coat the pork completely.
- Marinate for 30 minutes to allow the pork to fully absorb the flavors.
Step 2. Deep Fry the Pork Belly
- Add a small amount of vinegar to reduce oil spitting).
- Deep fry the pork belly until golden brown and crispy, turning regularly. (Approximately 10 minutes, depending on size).
Step 3. Drain and Prepare for Serving
- Drain excess oil on paper towels and let cool for a few minutes.
- Cut the pork belly into strips using scissors or a knife.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve and enjoy! We recommend serving with sticky rice and som tum.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Use a very sharp knife or fork to pierce the fat side of the pork belly for better marinade absorption.
- Adding a small amount of vinegar to the hot oil may reduce spitting.
- Turn the pork belly regularly while deep frying to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Nutrition
- Calories: 500-700
- Fat: 40-60g
- Carbs: 10-20g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. How do I achieve extra crispy pork belly?
Ensure your pork belly is completely dry before frying. Pat it with paper towels and use a high enough temperature (around 350°F/175°C) to render the fat quickly and create a crisp crust. Consider double frying for extra crispiness.
2. Can I use a different cut of pork?
While pork belly is ideal for its fat content, you can experiment with other cuts with a good fat-to-lean ratio, like pork shoulder. However, the results might not be as crispy.
3. How do I store leftover crispy pork belly?
Store leftover pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or oven to avoid making it soggy.
This simple Thai recipe for crispy deep-fried pork belly delivers incredible flavor and texture with minimal effort. The satisfying crunch and rich taste will leave you wanting more, making it a perfect dish for a family meal or a special occasion. Enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary adventure!