Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside – that's the magic of perfectly fried pork balls. These delightful Thai treats, bursting with flavour, are a delicious snack or appetizer, equally satisfying on their own or alongside a vibrant dipping sauce. Imagine the satisfying crunch as you bite into a golden-brown sphere, revealing tender pork infused with fragrant garlic and a spicy kick of chili. The simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe balances savoury and spicy notes, creating a culinary experience that's both addictive and unforgettable. They're surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
This recipe for crispy fried pork balls with garlic and chili is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or impressing friends. Forget complicated techniques and long preparation times; this recipe offers a straightforward path to achieving restaurant-quality results at home. Ready to create these mouthwatering delights? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Frying pan
- Spatula
- Strainer
Ingredients
- Minced pork: 600 grams
- Thai garlic: 4 cloves
- Coriander root: 5 stalks
- Peppercorns: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt
- Seasoning powder: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- White soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons + for frying
- Green chili peppers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Marinade and Pork
- Pound 3 cloves of Thai garlic. This will be used for frying later.
- Pound 1 clove of Thai garlic, 5 stalks of coriander root, and ½ teaspoon of peppercorns for the marinade.
- Marinate the minced pork with the pounded garlic mixture, salt, seasoning powder, sugar, white soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Mix thoroughly and knead until tender.
- Shape the marinated pork into balls.
Step 2. Fry the Pork Balls
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan until hot.
- Carefully add the pork balls to the hot oil, frying them one at a time and stirring gently to prevent sticking. Maintain medium heat to ensure the inside cooks through.
Step 3. Crisp and Season
- Fry until golden yellow. Add the pounded garlic and fry until crispy. Add green chilies, if desired.
Step 4. Drain and Serve
- Remove the pork balls and garlic from the pan using a strainer to drain excess oil.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Adding vegetable oil to the pork marinade helps to keep it tender and juicy when frying.
- Use medium heat when frying to prevent burning the outside before the inside is cooked.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust frying time depending on desired color and crispiness.
- Avoid using too high heat when frying the garlic to prevent bitterness.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use ground pork instead of minced pork?
Yes, ground pork will work, but minced pork generally results in a more tender texture. Adjust the amount of binding agent (egg/cornstarch) as needed for the desired consistency.
2. How do I make sure the pork balls are crispy?
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F/175°C). Don't overcrowd the pan, and fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature. Allow the balls to rest briefly on a wire rack after frying to drain excess oil further.
3. What can I serve these pork balls with?
These pork balls pair perfectly with a sweet chili sauce, a spicy dipping sauce, or even a simple garlic-lime dipping sauce. They also make a great addition to noodle soups or rice dishes.
So there you have it – your very own batch of deliciously crispy, flavourful Thai pork balls. From appetizer to main course, these versatile treats are sure to become a favourite in your kitchen. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and bold flavours – happy cooking!