Prahok Ktis

Ingredients

Fresh cilantro

1/2 cup, chopped (for garnish)

Vegetable oil

2 tablespoons

Salt

1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

Sugar

1 tablespoon

Fish sauce

2 tablespoons

Kaffir lime leaves

3 leaves, bruised

Lemongrass

1 stalk, bruised and cut into 2-inch pieces

Shallots

2, sliced

Garlic

4 cloves, minced

Coconut milk

1 can (13.5 oz)

Pork

1 pound, thinly sliced

Prahok (fermented fish paste)

1/2 cup

Instructions

1. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add the minced garlic and sliced shallots to the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced pork. Sear the pork until browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the prahok, ensuring it is well combined with the pork and the aromatics.
5. Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to incorporate it into the mixture.
6. Add the bruised lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
7. Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. After simmering, remove the lemongrass stalk and kaffir lime leaves from the pan.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
10. Enjoy your delicious Prahok Ktis with steamed rice or fresh vegetables!