How to Make Thai-Style Pork Soup with Herbs
Thai-style pork soup with herbs is a delightful dish that combines fragrant herbs, tender meat, and rich flavors, making it a favorite among Thai cuisine enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting bowl at home, this recipe is perfect for you.
Ingredients
To make this flavorful soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 500g pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups chicken or pork broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised and cut into pieces
- 3-4 kaffir lime leaves, torn
- 1-inch piece of galangal or ginger, sliced
- 2-3 Thai bird chilies (adjust based on spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar (preferably palm sugar)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button mushrooms work well)
- Fresh herbs such as cilantro, basil, and green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing them until fragrant and translucent.
Step 2: Brown the Pork
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the pork pieces to the pot. Cook until the pork is browned on all sides, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Throw in the bruised lemongrass, torn kaffir lime leaves, sliced galangal, and Thai bird chilies. Sauté for a couple of minutes to release their essential oils, infusing the dish with aromatic flavors.
Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken or pork broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 30 minutes or until the pork is tender. Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Season the Soup
After 30 minutes of simmering, add the fish sauce and sugar. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more fish sauce for saltiness or sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Step 6: Add Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and cooked through.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro, Thai basil, and chopped green onions. For an extra kick, add a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of crushed chili flakes.
Tips for the Best Thai-Style Pork Soup
1. Choose Quality Pork: Opt for well-marbled cuts like pork shoulder for tenderness and flavor.
2. Control the Spice: Adjust the number of chilies based on your spice tolerance. Thai bird chilies are quite hot, so start with one or two if you're unsure.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: The freshness of the herbs enhances the soup's aroma and flavor. Don’t skip on the cilantro and basil!
4. Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Enjoy your homemade Thai-style pork soup with herbs as a delightful main dish or alongside rice and vegetables for a complete meal. This comforting soup is sure to impress and satisfy with its vibrant flavors and fragrant aroma!