Braised shrimp paste with pork is a rustic dish, full of traditional Vietnamese flavors, and loved by many. The rich and greasy taste of pork blends harmoniously with the fragrant and savory shrimp paste, creating an irresistible appeal for family meals.
Here is a simple and delicious recipe for braised shrimp paste with pork that you can make at home to treat your family.
Braised Shrimp Paste with Pork
Ingredients
To make braised shrimp paste with pork, you will need the following ingredients:
- 300g minced pork (preferably using pork belly for a balanced fat and lean ratio)
- 3-4 tablespoons of shrimp paste (adjust according to your family’s taste preference)
- 3 shallots
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 stalks of lemongrass
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons of fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
- Pepper and chili powder (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Pork: Rinse the pork, pat it dry, and then mince or grind it. Using pork belly ensures the dish isn’t too dry or greasy.
Shallots, garlic, and lemongrass: Peel and mince these ingredients finely. They add a distinctive flavor to the dish.
Shrimp paste: If the shrimp paste is too thick, dilute it with a small amount of warm water to make it easier to braise.
Step 2: Sauté the Pork
Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan. Add the minced shallots, garlic, and lemongrass, and sauté until fragrant. Then, put the minced pork in the pan and stir-fry. Keep stirring to ensure the pork is evenly cooked and slightly browned.
As the pork starts to release its fat and cook, season it with a tablespoon of sugar and a pinch of pepper to enhance its flavor. Continue stirring until the pork absorbs the seasonings and emits a delightful aroma.
Step 3: Braise the Shrimp Paste with Pork
Once the pork is browned and cooked through, add the shrimp paste to the pan. Mix thoroughly so that the shrimp paste combines with the pork. At this point, the distinctive fragrance of shrimp paste will fill the air. Adjust the seasoning with fish sauce and sugar to suit your taste.
If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add chili powder to the pan. Simmer over low heat, stirring continuously, to allow the shrimp paste to penetrate the pork. Braise the mixture for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens, turns a beautiful brown color, and releases an irresistible aroma.
Step 4: Finalize the Dish
When the braising is done, turn off the heat and let the dish cool down. You can serve the braised shrimp paste with pork immediately with hot rice or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week without losing its delicious flavor.
Tips for Making Braised Shrimp Paste with Pork
To ensure the best flavor, choose a shrimp paste that is deep red in color and has a distinctive aroma. High-quality shrimp paste will make your dish even more fragrant and appealing.
When braising the shrimp paste, be patient and keep stirring to prevent it from burning or drying out.
If you prefer a richer, greasier dish, feel free to use pork belly with more fat. Alternatively, if you want a lighter dish, you can use leaner ground pork.
Enjoying Braised Shrimp Paste with Pork
Braised shrimp paste with pork is typically served with hot rice, especially during chilly weather. It also goes well with fresh vegetables or cucumber, creating a harmonious combination of salty-sweet flavors and the refreshing taste of raw veggies.
Braised shrimp paste with pork is a humble yet mouthwatering and flavorful dish. With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can easily prepare this dish at home. It’s not only a delightful addition to family meals but also a wonderful gift for loved ones and friends, satisfying anyone who appreciates Vietnamese cuisine.
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