Cambodian Style Ground Pork is a flavorful dish originating from Southeast Asia, specifically highlighted in the “Arizona Republic” newspaper for its bold and spicy profile. This recipe is perfect for those craving a taste of Cambodian cuisine with a twist of Asian influence, promising to tantalize taste buds and evoke a culinary adventure in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Let’s delve into the ingredients that make this Cambodian Style Ground Pork dish a standout:
- Ground Pork (2 1/2 lbs): Provides a hearty base for the dish, offering protein richness.
- Anchovy Fillets (8 fillets): Adds a deep umami flavor, enhancing the savory profile of the pork.
- Sweet Paprika (2 1/4 tsp): Introduces a mild, sweet pepper flavor that complements the spices.
- Cayenne (3/4 tsp): Brings a spicy kick to the dish, characteristic of Cambodian cuisine.
- Coconut Milk (1/4 cup): Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- Jicama (1 1/4 cups, julienned): Provides a refreshing crunch and mild sweetness.
- Fresh Lime Juice (1 lime): Adds acidity and brightness to balance the flavors.
- Flour Tortillas (6 pieces): Serves as the vehicle to wrap and enjoy the flavorful pork filling.
- Eggplant (1 small, thinly sliced): Offers a tender texture and absorbs flavors well.
- Cucumber (1 large, thinly sliced): Adds crispness and a fresh element to the dish.
- Pickling Cucumbers (1/2 cup, thinly sliced): Enhances the dish with a tangy contrast.
- Fresh Mint Leaves (5 leaves): Provides a fragrant herbal note, elevating the dish’s complexity.
Nutritional Information
Nutritionally, this dish packs a punch:
- Calories: 899.9 per serving
- Fat Content: 56.1g, with saturated fat at 25.2g
- Cholesterol: 140.8mg
- Sodium: 708mg
- Carbohydrates: 58.2g, including dietary fiber at 12.3g and sugars at 10.1g
- Protein: 43.2g
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s walk through the preparation steps to create this delectable Cambodian Style Ground Pork:
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Prepare the Pork Filling: In a large, ungreased frying pan, combine the ground pork, anchovy fillets, sweet paprika, chili powder, and cayenne. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to break up the meat, until the pork is browned (about 5 minutes).
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Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and continue cooking until almost all the liquid evaporates, which helps concentrate the flavors (about 10 minutes).
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Prepare the Accompaniments: In a separate bowl, mix together the julienned jicama and fresh lime juice. This mixture adds a refreshing crunch and tangy brightness to the dish.
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Assemble the Tortillas: Take a flour tortilla and spoon about 1/3 cup of the prepared pork filling into the center. Top with portions of the jicama-lime mixture, sliced eggplant, cucumber, pickling cucumbers, and fresh mint leaves.
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Fold and Serve: Fold the tortilla to enclose the filling, creating a neat package. Repeat for the remaining tortillas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Cambodian Style Ground Pork wraps immediately while warm, allowing everyone to enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures. These wraps are perfect for a casual dinner or lunch, offering a satisfying and exotic twist on traditional pork dishes. Pair them with a side salad or additional fresh vegetables to complement the meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cambodian Style Ground Pork is a must-try recipe that brings together bold spices, savory pork, and refreshing vegetables in a convenient wrap format. Whether you’re exploring new flavors or already a fan of Cambodian cuisine, this dish promises to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process of cooking and savoring this dish with friends and family, making each bite a journey through Southeast Asian flavors.
