Craving an explosion of authentic Thai flavors? Look no further than this irresistible stir-fry featuring succulent pork belly and the pungent magic of shrimp paste. This dish, a staple in many Thai kitchens, offers a delightful balance of savory, salty, and slightly sweet notes that dance on your palate. The rich, tender pork belly is perfectly complemented by the umami depth of shrimp paste, creating a symphony of taste that's both comforting and exhilarating. Imagine the fragrant aroma of garlic, chilies, and herbs mingling with the sizzling pork, a culinary experience that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Thailand.
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as we guide you through each step of creating this delicious stir-fry. From preparing the aromatic paste to mastering the perfect wok-stir technique, we'll ensure you achieve a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Let's dive into the detailed recipe and unlock the secrets of this fragrant Thai delight!
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Frying pan
- Sieve
Ingredients
- Pork belly: 700 grams
- Garlic: 1 clove
- Red chili peppers: 6
- Vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon
- Water: 150 ml
- Shrimp paste: 1 tablespoon
- Light soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Fish sauce: 1/2 tablespoon
- MSG: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Palm sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Lemongrass: 2 stalks
- Kaffir lime leaves: 2-3 leaves
- Chili peppers (green or red): null
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Aromatics and Pork Belly
- Pound the chili and garlic together in a mortar and pestle.
- Heat a pan, add a little water and vegetable oil. Add the pork belly and stir-fry continuously until soft and slightly crispy.
- Remove the pork belly and place it in a sieve. Pour out most of the excess oil from the pan, leaving a small amount.
Step 2. Create the Flavorful Sauce
- Stir-fry the pounded chili and garlic until fragrant. Add onion if desired.
- Add 150ml of water to the pan and stir to create a sauce base.
- Add shrimp paste, light soy sauce, fish sauce, MSG (optional), and palm sugar. Stir until well blended and the sauce thickens.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer
- Return the pork belly to the pan and stir-fry with the sauce.
- Add sliced lemongrass and torn kaffir lime leaves. Stir-fry together.
- Add sliced chili peppers (green or red) and stir-fry until combined.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Stir-frying the pork belly continuously prevents sticking and reduces oil splattering.
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers and seasoning to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pork belly with another type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute pork belly with other fatty cuts of pork, like pork shoulder or even chicken thighs for a leaner option. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What if I don't have shrimp paste or don't like the taste?
While shrimp paste is key to the authentic flavor, you can try omitting it entirely or substituting with a small amount of fish sauce and a pinch of soy sauce for a milder savory taste.
This Stir-Fried Pork Belly with Shrimp Paste is a testament to the vibrant and flavorful world of Thai cuisine. We hope this recipe has inspired you to explore the exciting possibilities of shrimp paste and the delightful balance of flavors it brings. Enjoy the fragrant and satisfying results of your culinary journey!