Kaeng Hang Lay Recipe

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Hello, food lovers! Today, we're excited to share a recipe for Kaeng Hang Lay, a delicious Northern Thai pork curry that’s rich, tangy, and aromatic. This dish is perfect for those who love deeply flavorful and hearty meals. Ready to add some authentic Thai flair to your dinner table? Let’s get started!

Ingredients:​

• 1 kg pork belly or shoulder, cut into large chunks
• 1/4 cup tamarind paste
• 1/4 cup palm sugar (or brown sugar)
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ginger, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cups water

For the Curry Paste:​

• 5 dried red chilies, soaked and de-seeded
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon galangal, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon shrimp paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

Instructions:​

1. Prepare the Curry Paste:
   • In a blender or mortar and pestle, combine dried chilies, shallots, garlic, lemongrass, galangal, shrimp paste, turmeric powder, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds. Blend until smooth.
2. Cook the Pork:
   • In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the curry paste and sauté until fragrant.
   • Add the pork chunks and cook until browned on all sides.
   • Add the tamarind paste, palm sugar, fish sauce, and dark soy sauce. Stir to coat the pork evenly with the seasonings.
3. Simmer the Curry:
   • Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.
   • Add the ginger and garlic halfway through the cooking process.
4. Serve:
   • Once the curry is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
   • Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice.

Serving Suggestion:​

• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with pickled vegetables or fresh cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast.

Indulge in the rich and complex flavors of Kaeng Hang Lay! Perfect for a cozy and comforting meal that brings the essence of Northern Thailand right to your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments below!