Thịt Kho Tàu (Vietnamese Braised Pork Belly & Eggs) is beloved from North to South in Vietnam. Though the Northern version may not have the online fame of the Southern one, rest assured, it's equally delicious!
1tbspVietnamese Caramel Sauce (Nước Màu) (or Molasses)(to your preference)
2½cupwater(600ml)
1tbspminced shallots
Instructions
Prepare the Pork: Place pork belly in a pot, cover with water, add ½ tbsp salt and 1 tbsp vinegar. Boil for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Cut into 1.5" (3.5 cm) cubes. Marinate with fish sauce, Vietnamese caramel sauce, sugar, and minced shallots for at least 30 minutes.
Boil the Eggs: Boil eggs (about 6½ minutes from cold water), then transfer to cold water. Peel and pat dry.
Fry the Eggs: To avoid bursting, air fry or bake eggs at 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes. Pat dry again. Deep-fry or pan-fry until golden.
Simmer the Dish: Sauté marinated pork in 1 tbsp oil until seared. Add ~2.5 cups (600ml) water to cover. Simmer over medium heat until sauce reduces by half. Add eggs, season again with fish sauce, sugar, and caramel sauce if desired. Simmer 10–15 minutes until sauce thickens.