If you’re searching for a dish that encapsulates the flavors of Vietnam, look no further than Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste). This traditional dish not only highlights the unique, rich flavors of Vietnamese cuisine but also brings together the delightful combination of succulent pork and the savory depth of shrimp paste. Popular in many households, especially during festive occasions, it’s a comforting meal that resonates with cultural significance.
In this article, you’ll learn all about Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc: its origins, the essential ingredients that make it oh-so-delicious, and a step-by-step guide on how to make it at home. You’ll discover variations you can try and even some pro tips to elevate your cooking game. So, let’s dive in and embark on this culinary adventure!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pork belly | 500g | Rich and fatty, pork belly adds a deliciously tender texture to Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc. |
| Shrimp paste | 2 tbsp | This fermented delicacy is the star of the dish, delivering an umami-packed punch of flavor. |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (minced) | Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and depth of flavor in Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc. |
| Ginger | 1 inch (sliced) | Adding ginger brings warmth and a slightly spicy kick to the dish. |
| Fish sauce | 1 tbsp | A staple in Vietnamese cooking, fish sauce enhances the savory profile of the pork. |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp | This adds a mild heat and enhances the overall flavor of Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc. |
| Water | 1 liter | Enough to boil the pork and infuse flavor into the dish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Start by gathering all your ingredients: fresh pork belly, shrimp paste, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, and black pepper. This step ensures a smooth cooking process for your homemade Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc.
- Marinate the Pork – Cut the pork belly into manageable pieces and mix it with minced garlic, sliced ginger, fish sauce, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. The longer, the better! This step gives the pork a flavorful kick.
- Boil the Pork – In a large pot, add the marinated pork and pour in 1 liter of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the meat becomes tender, which typically takes about 30-40 minutes.
- Prepare the Shrimp Paste – In a small bowl, mix the shrimp paste with a little bit of water to soften it. This will make it easier to drizzle over the pork later.
- Serve Your Dish – Once the pork is cooked, slice it into thin pieces. Arrange on a serving plate and generously drizzle the shrimp paste mixture over the pork. Enjoy your Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc hot, paired with rice or fresh vegetables!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add some fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor when serving.
- If you’re not a fan of shrimp paste, consider replacing it with a soy sauce or a vegan alternative for a different twist.
- Make sure to taste the shrimp paste before serving; its saltiness may vary depending on the brand.
- For extra tenderness, you can simmer the pork a bit longer, but be careful not to overcook it!
- Pair your dish with a light dipping sauce, like lime juice mixed with chili, for a fresh contrast to the richness of the pork.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Saturated Fats | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sugars | 0g |
| Total Fats | 25g |
FAQs
What is the best way to store Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste)? Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.
Can Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste) be made vegan or gluten-free? Absolutely! Use tofu instead of pork and a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it suitable for those diets.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste)? Traditional Vietnamese sides like pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, or steamed rice work beautifully!
How long does it take to prepare Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste)? With marination, expect about 1.5 hours—30 minutes for marination and 40 minutes for boiling.
Can I freeze Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste) for later? Yes! After cooking, let it cool down, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
What’s the origin of Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste)? This dish hails from Vietnam, celebrated in many regions for its simplicity and flavor.
How can I enhance the flavor of Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste)? Consider adding some sliced chili or dipping it in a mixture of lime and chili sauce for a zesty kick.
Is Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste) suitable for meal prep? Certainly! It’s great for meal prepping as it retains flavor well even after a few days in the fridge.
There you have it! A step-by-step guide on how to create delicious Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste) at home. It’s not just a meal; it’s a taste of Vietnam that you can enjoy anytime. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and relish the flavors that this dish offers. Don’t forget to share your culinary success or any variations you tried in the comments below!
Tried this Thit Luoc Mam Ruoc (Boiled Pork With Shrimp Paste) recipe? Let us know your experience in the comments!
