Vietnamese Caramelized Pork (Thit Ko) – Instant Pot Version

May 23, 2023May 23, 20230 2
Vietnamese Caramelized Pork (Thit Ko) - Instant Pot Version
in Main

Prep

20 min

Cook

50 min

Ready In

70 min

Level

Very easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

2 lbs pork belly , cut into 2 inch pieces
6 hard-boiled eggs
1/3 cup sugar
4 garlic cloves , chopped
1 large shallot , chopped
3 star anise pods ( optional )
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon msg ( optional )
1 can coconut , flavored soda ( Coco Rico brand )
2 1/4 cups water
1 teaspoon fish sauce

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
6
Calories
750
Sugar
19g
Fat
50g
Vietnamese Caramelized Pork, also known as Thit Ko, is a traditional Vietnamese dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It is typically made with pork belly that is cooked low and slow with a caramelized sugar syrup, garlic, shallots, and fish sauce. This version uses an instant pot to make the cooking process faster and easier. The dish is then finished off with some hard-boiled eggs that absorb the rich, flavorful sauce. It is often served over rice and garnished with some chopped green onions and cilantro for freshness. Vietnamese Caramelized Pork is a comfort food that is enjoyed by many in Vietnam and around the world.

Instructions

1.Press the Sauté button on your instant pot and add the sugar.
2.Let the sugar melt completely and turn into a dark amber color while stirring continuously.
3.Add the garlic, shallot, and star anise (optional) and stir well.
4.Add the pork pieces to the pot, turning them to coat in the caramelized sugar mixture.
5.Add black pepper, salt, soy sauce, and msg (optional). Mix everything well.
6.Add the coconut-flavored soda, water, and fish sauce to the pot. Stir everything well.
7.Close the lid of the pot, making sure the pressure valve is set to the sealing position.
8.Press the Meat/Stew button and set the cooking time for 30 minutes. Wait for the instant pot to come to pressure and complete the cooking cycle.
9.After the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before opening the lid.
10.Add the hard-boiled eggs to the pot, making sure they're fully submerged in the sauce.
11.Close the lid again and press the Sauté button. Let everything cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the eggs are fully coated.
12.Serve hot over rice, garnished with some chopped green onions and cilantro (optional).

PROS

This dish is very flavorful and easy to make in an instant pot.
It is a popular traditional Vietnamese recipe that is enjoyed by many.

CONS

This dish is high in calories and fat due to the pork belly, coconut soda, and sugar used in the recipe.
It should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Although this dish is not particularly healthy, it contains protein from the pork and eggs. Consuming it with fiber-rich vegetables can help balance out the meal. The garlic and shallot used in the recipe are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

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