Gaeng Hung Lay Recipe – Thai Special
Gaeng Hung Lay is a classic of Northern Thai cuisine, a flavorful pork curry known for its irresistible balance of sweet and sour curry notes. This authentic Thai recipe combines tender pork belly, tamarind, garlic, and warm spices, creating a dish that’s aromatic and deeply satisfying. A staple in traditional Thai food, it’s best enjoyed with sticky or jasmine rice for the perfect comforting meal.
- Prep Time25 min
- Cook Time1 hr 30 min
- Total Time1 hr 55 min
Gaeng Hung Lay Ingredients:
- 600 g (1.3 lbs) pork belly, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp Hung Lay curry paste (or red curry paste with extra ginger and garlic)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 2 tbsp palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 cup coconut water or water
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pickled garlic or shallots (optional, for authentic touch)
Gaeng Hung Lay Instructions:
Heat oil in a pot and fry the curry paste until fragrant.
Add minced garlic, ginger, and onions; sauté until lightly golden.
Stir in pork belly pieces and coat them well with the curry mixture.
Add tamarind paste, palm sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, turmeric, and cinnamon.
Pour in coconut water, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cover and cook on low heat for 1 to 1½ hours until the pork is tender and sauce thickens.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to develop a rich glaze.
Adjust seasoning to balance sweet, sour, and salty flavors.
Recipe Notes :
Thai Curry Paste: You can use Hung Lay curry paste or substitute with red curry paste enhanced with ginger and garlic.
Pork Belly Curry: The fat renders beautifully, giving the dish a rich and silky texture.
Easy Thai Dish: Despite its deep flavors, it’s simple to prepare and perfect for home cooks.
Tamarind Sauce: Balances the sweetness of palm sugar and richness of the meat.
Home-Cooked Thai Meal: Serve it hot with sticky rice for an authentic Chiang Mai-style experience.
