Get ready to transform your kitchen into a culinary paradise with this incredible Asian-inspired dish that will make your taste buds dance! Imagine tender, succulent pork pieces bathed in a tangy, sweet, and complex tamarind sauce that's so irresistible, your dinner guests will be begging for the recipe. This Pork in Tamarind Sauce isn't just a meal - it's a gourmet experience that brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine right to your dining table in just 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork shoulder, cubed
- 1/2 cup tamarind paste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pork by cutting the shoulder into uniform 1-inch cubes, ensuring even cooking and tender meat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine tamarind paste, brown sugar, fish sauce, and a pinch of salt to create a rich, tangy marinade.
- Add the cubed pork to the marinade, thoroughly coating each piece. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat with a small amount of cooking oil.
- Sauté chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add marinated pork to the skillet, reserving any remaining marinade. Sear the meat until it develops a golden-brown crust on all sides.
- Pour the reserved marinade over the pork, reducing heat to medium-low and allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken.
- Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the sauce has reduced to a glossy consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or fish sauce if needed.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions, accompanied by steamed rice.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Use pork shoulder for maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.
- Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: While 30 minutes is good, marinating for 2-4 hours (or overnight) will intensify the taste.
- Control Your Heat: Medium-high heat is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown sear without burning.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the pork in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets properly caramelized.
- Let the Sauce Reduce Slowly: Patient simmering is key to developing a rich, glossy sauce consistency.
- Fresh Garnishes Matter: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions can elevate the entire dish's flavor profile.
- Serve Immediately: The dish is best enjoyed hot, paired with steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 80mg
