Kaeng Om, a fragrant and deeply flavorful Thai pork bone curry, is a culinary masterpiece that transcends the ordinary. This rich, slow-cooked dish boasts tender pork bones infused with a complex blend of aromatic spices and herbs, creating a deeply satisfying and warming experience. The subtle sweetness from palm sugar balances the savory depth of the broth, while the addition of fresh vegetables adds a vibrant touch of freshness. Unlike many quick curries, Kaeng Om requires patience and time, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in an unforgettable culinary journey.
This recipe unveils the secrets to crafting the perfect Kaeng Om, transforming humble ingredients into an extraordinary meal. From meticulously selecting the finest pork bones to mastering the delicate balance of spices, we'll guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you achieve a deliciously authentic result. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- pot
- mortar and pestle
Ingredients
- pork with bones: 500 grams (1/2 kilogram)
- Chinese eggplant
- Chinese cabbage
- coriander
- spring onions
- basil leaves
- other vegetables (squash, green beans, zucchini, mushrooms)
- salt: 1 tablespoon
- lime juice: 1 tablespoon
- water: 4 liters (or enough to cover vegetables)
- dried chilies
- fresh chilies
- lemongrass: 2 stalks
- shallots: 8
- fish sauce: 1.5 tablespoons
- boiled fish sauce: 1.5 ladles
- MSG: 1.5 teaspoons
- rice flour: 1 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Wash the pork with bones, add 1 tablespoon of salt, mix well, and rinse with clean water 3 times to remove any fishy smell.
- Soak all vegetables in 4 liters of water with 1 tablespoon of lime juice for 10 minutes to remove any chemicals. Rinse 1-2 times after soaking. Discard any damaged or rotten parts.
- Cut the prepared vegetables into pieces suitable for Kaeng Om. You can add any vegetables you like.
- Soak sliced eggplant in salt water to prevent discoloration.
- Pound dried and fresh chilies (adjust to your spice preference), lemongrass, and shallots roughly in a mortar and pestle.
Step 2. Cook the Curry
- Heat the pot on low heat. Fry the pork with bones and the curry paste until fragrant.
- Add water (approximately 1 liter) to the pot and stir. Increase the heat to medium and bring to a boil.
- Season with fish sauce, boiled fish sauce, and MSG. Stir well.
Step 3. Add Vegetables
- Add the eggplant, stirring quickly to ensure it’s submerged in the soup to prevent discoloration.
- Add the cabbage and Chinese kale, stirring to submerge them. Cover and let the vegetables wilt for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the remaining vegetables (coriander, shallots, basil). Let it simmer until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Stir in rice flour to enhance the aroma. Turn off the heat and serve.
Read more: Easy Ground Beef Curry: A Delicious Asian Home-Style Recipe
Tips
- You can substitute the pork with beef, chicken, or fish.
- Add as many vegetables as you like; the more, the better!
- Regional variations of Kaeng Om exist; some add shrimp paste or rice.
- Serve with either plain rice or sticky rice.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-800
- Fat: 40-60g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat instead of pork bones?
Yes, you can substitute with beef bones, chicken bones, or even a combination for a different flavor profile. Adjust cooking time accordingly; tougher meats will require longer simmering.
2. What if I don't have all the listed spices?
Don't worry! While all the spices contribute to the unique flavor, you can omit some if needed. The core flavors come from the galangal, lemongrass, and chilies. Adjust the amount of others to taste.
3. How can I make the curry spicier or milder?
For spicier curry, add more chilies (adjusting to your preference). For a milder version, reduce the number of chilies or use milder chili varieties. You can also add a touch of coconut milk to mellow the heat.
This Fragrant Pork Bone Kaeng Om recipe delivers a deeply satisfying and authentic Thai culinary experience. The rich, flavorful broth and tender pork bones reward the time invested in this slow-cooked masterpiece. Enjoy the warmth and complexity of this delicious curry, perfect for sharing with family and friends.