Thit Kho Trung is a traditional Vietnamese dish that brings together tender braised pork and hard-boiled eggs in a savory caramel sauce. It’s a comforting meal often enjoyed with rice, making it a staple in Vietnamese households. This dish is not only delicious but also has deep cultural significance, symbolizing family unity and home-cooked warmth. Here are three diverse examples of preparing Thit Kho Trung, showcasing its versatility and flavor.
This example highlights a classic approach to making Thit Kho Trung, incorporating coconut water for a unique sweetness and depth of flavor. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Start by selecting 1 pound of pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the pork and cook until it’s browned on all sides. Then, add 1 chopped onion, 3 cloves of minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
Next, stir in 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until the sugar dissolves. Pour in 1 cup of coconut water and bring to a simmer. Add 4 hard-boiled eggs, cover, and let it braise for about 30 minutes. This method infuses the pork and eggs with a delightful flavor.
Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with chopped green onions. This dish is a favorite for family gatherings or when you want a taste of home.
In this variation, tamarind sauce adds a tangy twist to the traditional recipe. This is ideal for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and sour flavors.
Begin with 1 pound of pork shoulder, cut into chunks. In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and brown the pork pieces. Add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking until soft. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tamarind paste, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 2 tablespoons of sugar, mixing well.
Then, add 1 cup of water and let it come to a boil. Gently place 4 hard-boiled eggs into the pot, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tamarind will create a deliciously tangy sauce that perfectly complements the pork and eggs.
Serve with jasmine rice and fresh herbs for an aromatic meal that’s sure to impress.
For those who prefer a hands-off approach, this slow cooker version of Thit Kho Trung allows the flavors to meld beautifully without constant supervision. It’s great for busy weeknights.
Start with 2 pounds of pork belly, cut into chunks, and place them in the slow cooker. Add 1 sliced onion, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1/3 cup of soy sauce, 1/3 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of water. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Place 6 hard-boiled eggs on top of the pork, making sure they are nestled in the sauce. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking will result in tender, flavorful pork and perfectly infused eggs.
Serve over rice, and enjoy the convenience of this easy preparation method that doesn’t compromise on flavor.