This Easy Vietnamese Caramel Pork is packed with sweet and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance! The tender pork is caramelized for a tasty touch that’s really special.
I love enjoying this dish over a bowl of rice. It’s perfect for busy nights since it comes together quickly. You’ll want to make it again and again—trust me! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: For this recipe, pork shoulder or pork belly works best. They both have enough fat to keep the meat tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use pork loin, but it may not be as flavorful.
Sugar: Palm sugar gives the most authentic flavor, but you can easily swap it with brown sugar. Light brown sugar works well too. Just avoid white sugar, as it won’t offer the same rich taste.
Fish Sauce: This is vital for that umami flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, use soy sauce or coconut aminos as a substitute, though it’ll change the taste.
Chili: For those who like a kick, the optional chili is perfect! If you need a milder dish, skip it or use a sweet pepper instead.
How Do You Get the Perfect Caramel for Your Pork?
Making caramel for this dish is a crucial step, as it gives the pork that beautiful glaze. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your pan on medium heat, then add the sugar. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- As the sugar melts, watch closely. You’ll want it to turn a deep amber color. If it starts to smoke, reduce heat immediately!
- When it’s ready, add the pork pieces quickly, stirring to coat them evenly in the caramel. This step locks in the flavor!
Stay patient, and don’t rush the process—good caramel takes a little time!
Easy Vietnamese Caramel Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup sugar (preferably palm sugar or brown sugar)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small chili (optional), sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes before you can enjoy this tasty Vietnamese meal! Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Caramel:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a medium skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sugar to the pan and cook, stirring constantly. Keep an eye on it until the sugar melts and transforms into a beautiful deep amber caramel color. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
2. Adding the Pork:
Once you have your caramel ready, quickly add the pork pieces to the pan. Stir them around to ensure they are nicely coated in that delicious caramel.
3. Adding Flavors:
Now it’s time for the aromatics! Toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the pork. Cook everything together for about 2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and the onion is softened.
4. Simmering the Dish:
Next, pour in the fish sauce, soy sauce, and water. Stir everything nicely to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pork is tender and the sauce thickens to a glossy caramel consistency.
5. Final Touches:
Once your pork is cooked, season it with black pepper. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add the sliced chili at this stage. Stir well to mix everything together.
6. Garnish and Serve:
To serve, garnish your Vietnamese Caramel Pork with chopped green onions. Enjoy this dish hot, served over a bed of steamed jasmine rice for a satisfying meal!
Enjoy your flavorful Easy Vietnamese Caramel Pork! It’s bound to become a favorite in your household!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder and pork belly are ideal for their flavor and tenderness, you can use pork loin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it might be less juicy without the fat.
What Can I Substitute for Fish Sauce?
If you don’t have fish sauce, you can use soy sauce or coconut aminos as a substitute. This will provide a similar salty umami flavor, though it won’t taste quite the same. If you’re avoiding soy, you can even use a homemade blend of water, miso, and a little vinegar.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the sliced chili. For an extra kick, you can add more chili or even a dash of chili flakes when cooking. Adjust to your taste for a perfect balance!
