How to make it
5 steps. Take it one step at a time.
In a large bowl, marinate the cubed pork belly
In a large bowl, marinate the cubed pork belly with minced garlic, shallots, 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, and black pepper. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
30 minHeat 2 tablespoons of sugar
In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar melts and turns into a dark amber caramel liquid.
Carefully add the marinated pork
Carefully add the marinated pork to the pot. Stir well to coat the meat with the caramel sauce and sear until the pork is no longer pink on the outside.
Pour in the coconut water
Pour in the coconut water until the pork is mostly submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for 30 minutes. Skim any foam from the surface.
30 minAdd the hard-boiled eggs and the remaining tablespoon of fish sauce
Add the hard-boiled eggs and the remaining tablespoon of fish sauce. Continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes until the pork is very tender and the eggs have taken on a brown color from the broth.
40 min
A little kitchen wisdom
Using fresh coconut water is traditional and provides a delicate sweetness that bottled juice cannot match. For a deeper color, ensure the caramel sauce reaches a dark amber stage before adding the meat.
