Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 pounds of pork belly, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 stalks of lemongrass, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet or wok
- Tongs
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the pork belly to the bowl and toss until the meat is fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork belly to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the meat is browned and crispy.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking the pork belly for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked through and tender.
5. Remove the pork belly from the skillet and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Marinating time: 1 hour to overnight
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for browning the pork belly
- Medium-low heat for cooking the pork belly through
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork belly can be substituted with boneless pork shoulder or pork loin.
- Soy sauce can be substituted with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Add sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the skillet for a more colorful and flavorful dish.
- Use chicken or beef instead of pork for a different protein option.
- Add a splash of lime juice or rice vinegar to the marinade for a tangy twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to slice the pork belly into even pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Use tongs to flip the pork belly in the skillet to prevent the meat from sticking or breaking apart.
- Let the pork belly rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pork belly in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pork belly on a bed of rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Garnish the dish with sliced scallions or red chili flakes for added color and flavor.
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro, sliced scallions, red chili flakes
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a light and refreshing beer or a crisp white wine.
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Cucumber salad with sesame dressing
- Stir-fried bok choy or cabbage
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pork belly is sticking to the skillet, add a little more oil to the pan.
- If the pork belly is not browning evenly, adjust the heat and flip the meat more frequently.
- If the pork belly is tough or chewy, it may need to cook for a longer period of time.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the pork belly to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Always wash your hands and utensils thoroughly before and after handling raw meat.
Food history:
- Lemongrass is a popular ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Thai and Vietnamese dishes.
- Pork belly is a staple in many cultures around the world, including Chinese, Korean, and American cuisine.
Flavor profiles:
- Lemongrass adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the dish, while the pork belly provides a rich and savory taste.
- The marinade combines salty, sweet, and umami flavors for a well-rounded and complex taste.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the Lemongrass Pork Belly as a main dish for dinner or as an appetizer for a party or gathering.
- Pair with a side of rice or noodles for a complete meal.
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Region: Thai