Garlic Pepper Fried Pork, or Mu Tod Krathiam Prik Thai, is a beloved Thai dish known for its irresistible blend of savory, spicy, and garlicky flavors. This simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe delivers perfectly crispy pork, coated in a fragrant and addictive sauce. The addictive crunch of the pork, combined with the potent aroma of garlic and pepper, creates a culinary experience that's both comforting and exciting. It's a dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, equally at home as a standalone meal or served alongside rice and your favorite vegetables.
This recipe emphasizes achieving that perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior in the pork. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the pork to creating the flavorful garlic pepper sauce. Ready to experience the deliciousness of authentic Thai Garlic Pepper Fried Pork? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Knife
- Wok
- Paper towels
- Thermometer
Ingredients
- Pork butt (pork shoulder)
- White peppercorns
- Cilantro stems
- Garlic: 1 whole head
- Soy sauce
- Fish sauce
- Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Cooking oil
- Cilantro leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork Marinade
- Cut pork into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Pound white peppercorns, cilantro stems, and 1/3 of the garlic into a fine paste using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix the paste with pork, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Marinate for 20 minutes.
Step 2. Fry the Garlic and Pork
- Fry the remaining 2/3 of the garlic in a wok over low heat until light golden and crispy. Set aside.
- Add more oil to the wok. Heat to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss the marinated pork with cornstarch.
- Deep-fry the pork in batches for 30-45 seconds until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels.
Step 3. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fried garlic and cilantro leaves.
- Serve hot with rice.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Use pork shoulder for more flavor and tenderness.
- Don't overcrowd the wok when frying the pork.
- Fry garlic over low heat to prevent burning. Stir constantly for even cooking.
- Cornstarch helps with texture and prevents dryness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 500-600
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 35-45g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pork?
Yes, you can use pork belly, shoulder, or even tenderloin, but the cooking time may need adjusting. Pork belly will give you the crispiest results.
2. What if I don't have all the ingredients?
Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you're missing a specific ingredient, you can often substitute with something similar, but the flavor might slightly differ.
3. How can I make the pork extra crispy?
Ensure the pork is completely dry before frying. Use high heat and don't overcrowd the pan. You can also pat the pork dry again after the initial frying before adding the sauce.
This Crispy Garlic Pepper Pork recipe delivers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, guaranteed to satisfy any craving. With its simple steps and readily available ingredients, it's a dish you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts!