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.
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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- 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.
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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