For an even richer flavor, use coconut water fresh from the coconut. Feel free to adjust the amount of fish sauce to your preference. Start with 3 tablespoons and add more to taste. The longer you simmer the pork, the more tender it will become. Don't be afraid to let it cook for longer if you prefer a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This dish is even better the next day! Refrigerating allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to skim off any excess fat. Serve hot with steamed rice and a side of fresh greens for a complete and satisfying meal.
Thit Kho (Caramelized Pork Belly)
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PREP TIME20 mins
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COOK TIME1 hrs 15 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 45 mins
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SERVING6 People
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VIEWS33
Experience the soul of Vietnamese cuisine with Thit Kho, a deeply flavorful and comforting dish of caramelized pork belly braised in fragrant coconut water. This classic recipe, often enjoyed during Tet, transforms simple ingredients into a rich and unforgettable culinary experience. The pork becomes meltingly tender, infused with the sweet and savory notes of caramel, fish sauce, and aromatic shallots. A true celebration of flavor!
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate16 g
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Cholesterol267 mg
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Fiber1 g
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Protein27 g
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Saturated Fat9 g
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Sodium1832 mg
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Sugar6 g
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Fat26 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPrepare the Pork: Slice the pork belly into 1-inch thick pieces, ensuring each piece has a good balance of skin, fat, and meat.
02
StepCreate the Caramel: In a large wok or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the sugar over medium heat until it melts and caramelizes to a light amber color (approximately 5 minutes). Watch carefully to prevent burning.
03
StepSear the Pork: Add the pork belly to the caramelized sugar and increase the heat to high. Stir-fry the pork, rendering some of the fat, until it's lightly browned on all sides (3-5 minutes).
04
StepAdd Aromatics and Seasoning: Stir in the sliced shallots and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the fish sauce and a generous grind of black pepper, stirring to coat the pork evenly.
05
StepBraise: Pour in the coconut water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Gently nestle the hard-boiled eggs amongst the pork.
06
StepSimmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently, checking occasionally. If the liquid reduces too quickly, add a little water to keep the pork submerged. Continue simmering until the pork is incredibly tender (about 1 hour).
07
StepRest and Skim: Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand for 10 minutes. Use a spoon to skim any excess fat from the surface of the dish before serving.
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Sigurd Padberg
Jun 30, 2025This is now a staple in our house. My kids ask for it all the time!
Bryce Heidenreich
Jun 23, 2025I've made Thit Kho before, but this recipe is by far the best. The caramelized sugar really makes a difference.
Catharine Hettinger
Jun 8, 2025Followed the recipe exactly and it was phenomenal!
Jazlyn Stracke
Jun 3, 2025This recipe is amazing! The pork was so tender and flavorful. My family loved it!
Daniella Hickle
Apr 3, 2025The instructions were easy to follow, and the dish turned out perfectly. Thank you for sharing!
Giovanna Klocko
Feb 18, 2025This recipe is a winner! I will be making this again and again.
Luigi Murphy
Jan 18, 2025I added a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, and it was delicious!