Vietnamese Caramelized Pork Grilled Recipe

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €5.14 · €0.86/serving

• 1/3 cup sugarEst. price €0.08–€0.20
• 1 tablespoon Asian fish sauceEst. price €0.15–€0.35
• 1/2 teaspoon saltEst. price €0.01–€0.03
• 6 (1/4-inch-thick) boneless pork loin chopsEst. price €4.50–€7.50
• 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots (about 2)Est. price €0.30–€0.60
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juiceEst. price €0.10–€0.25

Steps

1. 1

   Place the pork chops between two large sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat pounder or rolling pin to flatten them until they are less than 1/8 inch thick. Create multiple small slits about 1/4 inch deep around the edges of each chop to prevent them from curling. Next, cut the chops in half lengthwise and transfer them to a bowl.

2. 2

   In a small heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar until it turns into a golden caramel. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon while melting. Once caramelized, add shallots, lime juice, fish sauce, and salt to the pan (expect the caramel to harden). Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the caramel dissolves and shallots soften. Pour this flavorful sauce over the pork and mix thoroughly until evenly coated.

3. 3

   Begin by preheating a lightly oiled ridged grill pan that is well-seasoned over medium-high heat until it is hot but not smoking. Proceed to grill the pork in batches, ensuring to turn them over once, until they are just cooked through, approximately 1 minute per side. Remember to discard any leftover caramel sauce before serving.

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• Cultural note

  Vietnamese Caramelized Pork Grilled is a traditional Vietnamese dish known for its sweet and savory flavor profile. It is often served with rice and pickled vegetables, reflecting the balance of flavors and textures in Vietnamese cuisine.

• Seasonal note

  This Vietnamese Caramelized Pork Grilled dish is best enjoyed in summer when shallots and limes are in season. The warm weather is perfect for grilling the pork loin chops to achieve a smoky flavor.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of protein and zinc from the pork loin chops, supporting muscle health and immune function. However, it is high in sodium and sugar, so moderation is key for those watching their intake of these nutrients.