### Vietnamese Caramelized Pork Belly and Spaghetti: A Culinary Journey
A decade ago, while preparing for a house move, I discovered an overlooked package of pork belly nestled in my freezer. It was a remnant from a sale, saved for a special occasion. With most of my kitchen items packed away, I was left with just some dry pasta and this frozen gem. After a moment’s thought, inspiration hit: Vietnamese caramelized pork belly!
#### The Surprising Pairing
Though the notion of combining caramelized pork belly with spaghetti may appear unusual, the initial bites were astonishing. The sweet and savory pieces of pork, paired with a ample amount of black pepper and perfectly al dente spaghetti, formed a comforting dish that was both fulfilling and delectable.
#### Appreciating Pork Belly
Pork belly is a contentious ingredient; opinions vary widely. Personally, I’m in the camp that loves it. Despite its reputation for unhealthiness due to fat content, when cooked right, pork belly can be wonderfully tasty. I procured the pork belly for this recipe from Whole Foods at a reasonable cost, ensuring a nice ratio of meat to fat.
#### Creating the Pork Belly Pasta
For those who might be wary about introducing pork belly or Vietnamese tastes to discerning eaters, this dish serves as an excellent introduction. The inclusion of fish sauce, often seen as overly fishy, actually brings a layer of umami that enriches the flavor without overwhelming it. It’s similar to a heartier soy sauce, making it surprisingly harmonious with pasta.
#### The Importance of Fish Sauce
Fish sauce is a fundamental component of Vietnamese cooking, and for this dish, it’s crucial to select a clear, premium version. Opaque, fermented kinds can possess distinct flavor profiles and should be avoided in this recipe. A quality fish sauce can significantly enhance the dish.
#### Selecting the Right Pasta
When choosing pasta, opting for bronze-extruded options can yield a noticeable improvement. These pastas have a coarser texture that enables them to cling to sauces better than smoother varieties. Although they may cost a bit more, the added quality justifies the price.
### Recipe: Vietnamese Caramelized Pork Belly Pasta
#### Ingredients
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 lb pork belly, diced
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 1 cup water
– 1 shallot, sliced
– 1/2 onion, sliced
– Freshly ground black pepper
– 8-12 oz spaghetti (preferably bronze extruded)
#### Instructions
1. In a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, melt the sugar over medium to medium-high heat without stirring until it reaches a deep caramel hue (3-5 minutes).
2. Incorporate the pork belly, stirring until it becomes lightly golden (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the water, fish sauce, onions, and shallots. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
4. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened considerably (about 20-30 minutes).
5. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and do not rinse.
6. Combine the pasta directly in the pan with the pork and toss to coat well.
7. Adjust the seasoning with ample black pepper. Serve hot.
### Nutritional Information (per serving)
– Calories: 765
– Fat: 19.5g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
– Cholesterol: 102mg
– Sodium: 782mg
– Potassium: 849mg
– Carbohydrates: 93.4g (Fiber: 3.8g, Sugar: 10g)
– Protein: 50.4g
This Vietnamese caramelized pork belly pasta is more than just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that marries comfort food with exotic tastes. Ideal for a snug dinner, it highlights the artistry of culinary innovation, transforming a basic frozen item into a memorable creation. Savor it!