How to Make Thai-Style Pork with Tamarind Sauce
Thai cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and vibrant ingredients, and one dish that epitomizes this is Thai-Style Pork with Tamarind Sauce. This dish features tender pork infused with the tangy sweetness of tamarind, complemented by aromatic herbs and spices. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of pork tenderloin, sliced
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small red chili, chopped (adjust to taste)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Pork
In a medium bowl, combine the tamarind paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir well to create a marinade. Add the sliced pork tenderloin to the bowl and mix until the pork is well coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for more flavor, refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight.
Step 2: Cook the Pork
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated pork along with the marinade. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes or until the pork is cooked through and slightly caramelized. If you like a bit of heat, add the chopped red chili during the last few minutes of cooking.
Step 3: Plate and Serve
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the heat. Serve the Thai-Style Pork with Tamarind Sauce over a bed of jasmine rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
Tips for Making the Perfect Thai-Style Pork
- For a more intense flavor, allow the pork to marinate overnight.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili used.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas stir-fried along with the pork for added nutrition.
This Thai-Style Pork with Tamarind Sauce is a delightful dish that balances sweet, sour, and savory flavors, reflecting the essence of Thai cuisine. Enjoy this simple yet tantalizing recipe at your next dinner party or family meal!