Best Thom Khem Recipe | Caramelized Pork Stew | Lao Food at Saeng’s Kitchen

pork belly

🥗Healthier: chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken thighs are leaner, while pork shoulder is more affordable.

fish sauce

🥗Healthier: soy sauce

💰Cheaper: salt

Soy sauce provides umami flavor without fish.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey adds sweetness with a different flavor profile.

black pepper

🥗Healthier: white pepper

💰Cheaper: ground black pepper

White pepper offers a milder flavor.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped garlic and shallots; sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Add pork belly pieces; brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Pour in soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar; stir to combine.

Add water to cover the pork; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 1-2 hours until pork is tender.

Add black pepper, coriander roots, bay leaves, star anise, and lime leaves; stir.

Continue to simmer uncovered for 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.

Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and chili peppers.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: