Craving an explosion of flavor in just 30 minutes? Then get ready to experience the irresistible crunch and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of our Crispy Thai Pork Belly recipe. This dish perfectly balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes, transforming humble pork belly into a culinary masterpiece. Forget lengthy cooking times; our streamlined method delivers restaurant-quality results without the fuss. Imagine perfectly crisp skin giving way to succulent, flavorful meat, all infused with the aromatic magic of Thai spices.
Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to achieve this impressive dish. This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients and clever techniques to achieve the perfect balance of textures and tastes. From perfectly seasoned pork belly to a vibrant, flavorful sauce, we'll guide you through each step, ensuring a flawless outcome every time. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let’s dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Bowl
- Knife
- Strainer
- Deep Fryer or Pot
Ingredients
- Pork Belly: 1 pound
- Fish Sauce: 1 1/2 tablespoons
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Corn Starch: 2 tablespoons
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate the Pork Belly
- Cut the 1 pound pork belly into 1-inch squares.
- Transfer the pork belly to a bowl.
- Add 1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon sugar to the bowl. Mix until well combined and the liquid no longer pools at the bottom.
- Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Step 2. Coat and Fry the Pork Belly (First Fry)
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
- Coat the marinated pork belly in the flour mixture using a strainer.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or pot.
- Fry the pork belly pieces in batches for exactly 2 minutes, ensuring they don't stick together.
- Remove the pork belly and drain on paper towels.
Step 3. Cool and Re-Fry for Crispiness
- Let the fried pork belly cool for about 10 minutes until slightly warm to the touch.
- Fry the pork belly again for 1 minute until crispy and golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels again.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Make sure the pork belly mixture reaches room temperature before frying for better results.
- Fry the pork belly in batches to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of pork instead of pork belly?
While pork belly gives the best crispy skin and rich flavor, you can try a thick-cut pork shoulder or even pork loin. Keep in mind the cooking time may need adjusting, and the texture won't be exactly the same.
2. What can I do if my pork belly skin isn't getting crispy?
Ensure the skin is completely dry before cooking. You can pat it dry with paper towels and even use a hairdryer on a cool setting. Also, make sure your pan is hot enough and that you're achieving a good sear.
This 30-minute Crispy Thai Pork Belly recipe proves that impressive meals don't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and incredible flavor of this easy-to-make dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Now go ahead and impress your family and friends with this delightful culinary creation!