Duck and Tamarind Hot Pot
Ingredients:
Duck: 1 (approx. 1.3 kg), cleaned
Tamarind: 8
Coriander, Limnophila aromatica, and Water Spinach: 500g each
Oyster mushrooms: 100g
Enoki mushrooms: 100g
Yam: 500g
Satay: 3 teaspoons
Carrot: 1
Quail eggs: 15
Lemongrass: 2 stalks
Tofu: 2 blocks
Vermicelli: 1 kg
Chili: 3
Lime: 3
Onion, Garlic, Ginger
Spices: Salt, Pepper, Fish Sauce
Bone broth: a little
Notes on choosing duck and tamarind:
For a delicious duck and tamarind hot pot, ingredient selection is crucial, especially when it comes to the duck and tamarind.
Choosing a tasty duck:
When buying a live duck, look for one with smooth feathers, a full chest, and thick belly and neck skin. A trick is to check if the wings can be crossed easily; if they can, it’s a good choice. Avoid ducks with extremely large or small beaks, as these indicate youth or age, respectively. Male ducks are generally preferred for their sweeter, more flavorful meat.
For pre-slaughtered ducks, opt for one recently slaughtered, with light yellow skin that bounces back when pressed. If the skin doesn’t regain its shape, it may have been injected with water, so choose another. A duck that’s not too young or old will have tasty, firm meat without excess fat.
To eliminate the duck’s odor, remove the gizzard and wash it with salt, wine, and ginger.
Choosing the right tamarind:
Tamarind selection is also key. Avoid very young tamarind, as the pulp will be thin, and older tamarind tends to be tough and overly sour. Opt for tamarind that’s just right, with evenly green, slightly rough skin, thick pulp, and plenty of sour flesh, ensuring your dish tastes perfectly balanced.
Preparation:
When serving Duck and Tamarind Hot Pot, place the pot in the center, surrounded by side dishes like tofu, dipping vegetables, and vermicelli. This hot pot is best enjoyed hot, accompanied by fresh vermicelli and raw vegetables, especially during summer. A plate of fresh water spinach with this hot pot makes for a truly delightful culinary experience.
Tips:
For a richer, more aromatic flavor in the Northern style, add coconut water to the hot pot. If coconut water is unavailable, bone broth is an excellent alternative. When preparing yams, wash them, then parboil for 5 minutes before rinsing in cold water to easily peel without irritation or sliminess.
Water spinach is the most popular dipping vegetable for this hot pot. Prepare a basket of fresh water spinach to enhance the flavor of the dish.
This hot pot has an enticing aroma, with tender duck meat that’s not too chewy, and a sour-salty broth that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s not just nutritious but also appetizing and comforting for any family meal.
Good luck, and enjoy your Duck and Tamarind Hot Pot!