Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup padaek (Lao fish sauce)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1 lime, juiced
Special equipment needed:
- Skewers
- Grill
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the padaek, brown sugar, soy sauce, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, scallions, and lime juice.
2. Add the pork cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the pork cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
5. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.
6. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Marinating time: 2 hours to overnight
- Cooking time: 8-10 minutes
Temperature:
- Grill temperature: medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork shoulder can be substituted with chicken thighs or beef sirloin.
- Padaek can be substituted with regular fish sauce.
Variations:
- Add chopped lemongrass to the marinade for extra flavor.
- Serve the skewers with a side of sticky rice and a cucumber salad.
Tips and tricks:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Don't overcrowd the skewers, as this will prevent the pork from cooking evenly.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the skewers in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the skewers on a platter with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
Pairings:
- Beer or a crisp white wine
Suggested side dishes:
- Sticky rice
- Cucumber salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pork is sticking to the grill, brush the grates with oil before grilling.
- If the pork is cooking too quickly on the outside but still raw on the inside, lower the grill temperature and cook for a few minutes longer.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the pork is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Padaek is a traditional Lao condiment made from fermented fish.
Flavor profiles:
- Salty, sweet, savory, and slightly tangy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the skewers as an appetizer or main course.
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Region: Lao