Braised pork with lemon leaves is a popular dish in Vietnamese cuisine, known for its flavorful and tender meat. In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of braising pork with lemon leaves, resulting in a beautiful golden color and tender meat without the need for caramelization.

Delicious Golden Braised Pork

Ingredients

  • Pork: 500g (preferably pork belly or shoulder for tenderness)
  • Lemon leaves: 5-7 leaves (adjust according to taste)
  • Fish sauce: 3-4 tablespoons
  • Seasoning powder: 1 tablespoon
  • Pepper: 1/2 tablespoon
  • Garlic: 2-3 cloves (minced)
  • Shallots: 2 bulbs (minced)
  • Sugar: 1 tablespoon (optional, can be replaced with palm sugar for a unique flavor)
  • Water: 1 cup

Instructions

  • Prepare the Ingredients:

    • Rinse the pork and pat it dry, then cut it into bite-sized pieces.
    • Wash the lemon leaves and chop them finely, or leave them whole if you prefer.
  • Marinate the Pork:

    • In a bowl, combine the pork with fish sauce, seasoning powder, pepper, garlic, and shallots. Mix well and marinate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb into the meat.
  • Braise the Pork:

    • Heat some cooking oil in a pot. When the oil is hot, add the marinated pork and sear it briefly to seal in the juices.
    • Pour in the water and stir in the sugar, if using (skip this step if you prefer not to use sugar).
    • Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, add the lemon leaves, cover the pot, and braise for 30-40 minutes. Check occasionally and add more water if necessary.
    • As the liquid reduces and the pork becomes tender, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a soupier dish, feel free to leave some extra broth to serve with rice.
    • Turn off the heat and let the dish cool down slightly before serving.

Tasty Braised Pork

Tips for a More Flavorful Dish

  • Braising Time: For more tender and flavorful meat, consider braising the pork for a longer period. However, keep an eye on the liquid level and add water as needed to prevent the pork from drying out.
  • Lemon Leaves: Using fresh lemon leaves imparts a wonderful aroma and enhances the appeal of the dish.
  • Extra Touch: For added spice and flavor, garnish with fresh chili peppers or scallions.

This braised pork with lemon leaves dish not only offers a unique flavor but is also highly nutritious. The tender meat, vibrant colors, and enticing aroma make it an excellent choice for a family meal. I hope you enjoy preparing and indulging in this delicious Vietnamese delicacy!

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