There’s a special kind of comfort found in the sweet and savory embrace of Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork, a dish that dances on the palate and warms the soul. The moment you heat the oil and let the garlic sizzle, your kitchen transforms into a haven of enticing aromas, promising a meal that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to enjoy.
Let’s be honest: fast food can only satisfy so much. There’s something profoundly rewarding about crafting a meal from scratch, especially when it comes together in such a harmonious blend of flavors. With tender pork belly and succulent shrimp caramelized in a rich sauce, this recipe doesn’t just feed the stomach; it nourishes the spirit.
As autumn settles in and evenings draw longer, there’s a unique joy in welcoming friends or family over for dinner. This dish is a stunner, showcasing your culinary prowess despite being surprisingly straightforward. Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or simply treating yourself to an extraordinary home-cooked meal, Tôm Rim Thịt is sure to become a cherished favorite. Let’s dive into this fragrant delight!
Why is Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork irresistible?
Irresistible flavors: The deep, savory notes of the caramelized pork belly and sweet shrimp create a delicious harmony that will keep you coming back for more.
Quick to prepare: With just a little prep time, you can whip up a flavorful dish that looks fancy yet feels like home.
Party pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this crowd-pleaser is sure to impress friends and family alike.
Comforting dish: It embodies that cozy, homemade feel that fast food simply can’t replicate.
Versatile serving: Serve it with steamed rice or toss it into a stir-fry—this dish adapts beautifully!
If you want to explore more amazing Asian-inspired flavors, check out our collection of comfort food recipes.
Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork Ingredients
Dive into creating this mouthwatering dish with these essential ingredients!
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp (school prawns) – 250 g – Fresh shrimp add a sweetness that beautifully complements the pork.
For the Pork
• Pork belly – 1 kg (cut into 2cm chunks) – Chunks of pork belly provide richness and a satisfying texture to the dish.
For the Flavor Base
• Garlic – 3 cloves (finely chopped) – Garlic adds a fragrant kick, perfect for an aromatic base.
• Salt – 2 tsp (or to taste) – Adjust the salt to enhance the flavors without overpowering.
• Sugar – 3 tbsp (or to taste) – Brown sugar can substitute for a deeper caramel flavor.
• Chicken bouillon powder – 1 tbsp – This adds a savory depth that ties the dish together.
• Fish sauce – 2 tbsp (or to taste) – Essential for that umami punch characteristic of Vietnamese cuisine.
• Nước màu (Vietnamese caramel) – 3 tsp (or substitute with dark soy sauce) – This gives your dish its delightful color and sweetness.
For Cooking
• Water – 1/4 US cup – Helps to create the sauce that brings everything together.
• Oil – 2 tbsp – Use a neutral oil to sauté and enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
Gather these ingredients for your Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork, and prepare for a delightful culinary adventure!
How to Make Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork
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Heat the Pot: Start by heating a pot on high heat. Once hot, pour in the oil for a delicious sauté. Add the finely chopped garlic, frying it for about 30 seconds until it becomes aromatic and golden.
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Cook the Shrimp: Next, toss in the shrimp and let them cook for approximately 3 minutes or until they turn a beautiful shade of orange. After that, gently transfer them to a bowl, saving them for later.
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Combine Ingredients: Now, it’s time to add the pork belly chunks into the pot along with fish sauce, salt, nước màu (or dark soy sauce), sugar, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir everything well and cook for 5 minutes on high heat until combined and fragrant.
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Incorporate the Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back to the pot and give everything a good stir to mingle the flavors. Finally, pour in the water and let it simmer on low-medium heat for about 30 minutes, or until the sauce thickens beautifully.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for a burst of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork
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Perfect Timing: Don’t overcook the shrimp during the initial frying. Cook them just until they turn orange to maintain their tenderness and flavor.
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Flavor Balance: Adjust the sugar and fish sauce according to your taste preference. Too much fish sauce can overpower the dish, while the right balance enhances the Vietnamese caramelized shrimp and pork’s sweetness.
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Searing the Pork: Ensure the pork belly is well-seared before adding other ingredients. This step caramelizes the fat, adding depth to your sauce and enhancing the overall richness.
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Low and Slow: Allowing the dish to simmer gently for the full 30 minutes will ensure the flavors meld beautifully, and the sauce thickens to the perfect consistency.
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Garnish Wisely: Adding fresh herbs, like cilantro or green onions, just before serving will brighten the dish and add a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork
Fridge: Store your Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing.
Freezer: If you have leftovers, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, use parchment paper beneath the lid or double-wrap it.
Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to help revive the sauce.
Serving Fresh: Always serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor this delightful dish without the last-minute rush! You can prep the pork belly and shrimp up to 24 hours in advance. Simply marinate the pork with fish sauce, salt, sugar, and chicken bouillon powder, then refrigerate it. Store the cooked shrimp separately in an airtight container to maintain their tenderness. When you’re ready to serve, follow the cooking instructions, sauté the garlic, combine the pork and shrimp, and let it simmer to achieve that rich flavor. The taste will be just as delicious, making your busy weeknights infinitely easier!
What to Serve with Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork?
Rich, savory delights deserve the perfect companions to complete your dining experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its fluffy texture soaks up the rich sauce, enhancing each bite with comforting simplicity.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: Adding a crunch with bell peppers and bok choy provides a fresh contrast, making each mouthful uniquely vibrant.
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Egg Rolls: These crispy treats with a savory filling harmonize beautifully with the dish’s sweet elements for a well-rounded meal.
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Fresh Salad: A light cucumber and mint salad offers a delightful, zesty contrast, refreshing the palate between bites of the savory pork.
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Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of pickled carrots and daikon cuts through the richness, brightening the flavors on your plate.
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Cold Beer or Iced Tea: A crisp beverage balances the meal, while a light beer complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing dessert like lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after the savory feast, leaving a delightful end on a sweet note.
Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this delectable dish for a unique twist!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes to the cooking process for a delightful heat.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some bell peppers or green beans during the simmering stage for extra color and nutrition.
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Sweet and Savory: Use coconut sugar instead of white sugar for a richer flavor profile that adds mild sweetness.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or mint at the end for a fragrant, vibrant finish that enhances every bite.
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Pork Alternative: Substitute pork belly with chicken thighs or tofu for a lighter, yet equally tasty variation.
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Vegan Delight: Replace shrimp with mushrooms and use vegetable broth to create a vegan-friendly version brimming with umami.
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Noodle Dish: Serve this dish over rice noodles for a different texture and a hearty meal that’s just as satisfying.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing!
Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for fresh, firm shrimp that are bright in color with no dark spots or strong odor. Shell-on shrimp, like school prawns, retain moisture and flavor well while cooking, enhancing your Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store your Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation. If you want to keep it for longer, freezing is your friend!
Can I freeze this dish? If so, how?
Very! To freeze, let your dish cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. I often double-wrap mine in plastic wrap for extra protection against freezer burn. It will be good for up to 2 months.
Why is my sauce not thickening properly?
If your sauce isn’t thickening, it may need more simmering time. Ensure you’re cooking it on low-medium heat and give it at least 30 minutes to reduce effectively. If it’s still thin, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a splash of water and stir it into the sauce, cooking for a few additional minutes until thickened.
Is this dish suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
Not at all! Since this recipe includes shrimp, individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid it. As an alternative, try using chicken thighs or firm tofu, seasoned and cooked in a similar manner to replicate that satisfying flavor profile without the risk.
How should I serve Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork?
You can serve it with fluffy steamed rice, which absorbs the rich sauce beautifully. Another delightful option is incorporating it into a stir-fry with seasonal vegetables or garnishing it with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions. The more the merrier!
Vietnamese Caramelized Shrimp and Pork That Steals Hearts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a pot on high heat and pour in the oil for a delicious sauté. Add the finely chopped garlic, frying for about 30 seconds until aromatic and golden.
- Toss in the shrimp and cook for approximately 3 minutes or until they turn a beautiful shade of orange. Transfer to a bowl.
- Add the pork belly chunks along with fish sauce, salt, nước màu, sugar, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes on high heat.
- Incorporate the shrimp back into the pot, stir, and pour in the water. Let it simmer on low-medium heat for about 30 minutes, or until sauce thickens.
