The Story
A hearty braised pork dish cooked with turmeric, paprika, garlic, ginger, and chili, slowly simmered until tender and flavorful. Finished with soft eggplant, fish sauce, and fresh cilantro for a rich, comforting, and aromatic meal.
Instructions
- 1
Cut 1.5 lb of pork into moderate-sized pieces and place them in a pot.
- 2
Add 2 smashed shallots, 4 garlic cloves, 1 piece of ginger, and 5 chilies to the pot.
- 3
Season the mixture with 1/2 tbsp turmeric powder, 2 tbsp paprika, 2 tbsp salt, 1 tbsp MSG, and 3 tbsp cooking oil.
- 4
Place the pot over medium heat and cook the pork until it releases its natural juices, stirring occasionally.
- 5
Continue cooking until most of the liquid evaporates and the meat starts to dry slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
- 6
Add enough water to the pot to partially cover the pork, then bring it to a simmer.
- 7
Continue simmering until the water evaporates again, about 15-20 minutes.
- 8
Repeat the process of adding water and simmering until evaporated 2–3 times, or until the pork becomes tender and soft, which may take about 1 to 1.5 hours total.
- 9
Once the pork is tender, add chopped eggplant to the pot and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
- 10
Adjust the flavor by adding fish sauce to your taste, mixing well.
- 11
Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.