How to Cook Thai Braised Pork Leg (Khao Kha Moo)
If you’re looking to bring authentic Thai flavors to your kitchen, learning how to cook Thai braised pork leg, known as Khao Kha Moo, is a must. This savory dish features tender pork leg that’s slow-cooked to perfection and served with a fragrant sauce. In this guide, you'll discover the essential ingredients and steps to create this delectable meal.
Ingredients
To make Khao Kha Moo, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pork leg (about 3-4 pounds), skin on
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 3 tablespoons sugar (palm sugar preferred)
- 2-3 cups water or chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
- 1-2 star anise pods
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Hard-boiled eggs (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Leg
Begin by cleaning the pork leg under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any impurities and excess moisture for better browning.
Step 2: Sear the Pork
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant. Then, add the pork leg, searing all sides until golden brown. This process locks in flavor and enhances the dish’s overall taste.
Step 3: Braising the Pork
Once the pork leg is seared, it’s time to add the flavors. Pour in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce, mixing them well. Then add the sugar, five-spice powder, star anise, and enough water or chicken stock to cover the pork leg halfway.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone. Make sure to check periodically and add more liquid if necessary to keep the pork braising.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
After the braising time is complete, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt or additional sugar as needed. If desired, add hard-boiled eggs into the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to soak up the flavors.
When ready to serve, carefully remove the pork leg from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the meat and drizzle the reduced braising sauce over it. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Khao Kha Moo is traditionally served with steamed jasmine rice, pickled mustard greens, and a side of chili sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick. You can also add freshly chopped cucumber for a refreshing touch.
Tips for the Perfect Khao Kha Moo
- Using a pork leg with skin helps to create a flavorful, gelatinous sauce.
- Allow the dish to rest for a while before serving, as this enhances the flavors.
- Customizing the level of sweetness and saltiness can help tailor the dish to your taste.
Creating this Thai braised pork leg (Khao Kha Moo) is easier than it seems and promises to be a warming comfort food that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy your authentic Thai meal right at home!