Braised pork belly with the fragrant flavors of the mountains and forests.

BAC NINH - Amidst the vibrant cultural landscape of the ethnic groups in Bac Ninh province, the Tay people still preserve their traditional cuisine, rich in the flavors of the mountains and forests. Among them, braised pork belly (khau nhuc) is a special dish that is unforgettable for anyone who has tasted it.

In the province, there are approximately 60,000 Tay ethnic people residing mainly in the communes of Bien Dong, Huong Son, Son Hai, An Lac, etc. "Khau nhuc," also known as "nam khau," means "tender, soft meat" in the Tay language. This simple name partly reflects the dish's unique character. Although each locality has its own secret recipe, the common thread is the meticulous effort put into each step to create a rich and flavorful dish.

Vi Thi Vy's family prepares braised pork belly (khau nhuc).

Ms. Vi Thi Vy from An Lac commune shared: “To make a truly authentic bowl of braised pork belly, the preparation of ingredients is just as important as the cooking itself. The pork belly must be large and evenly proportioned; the spices include garlic, lemongrass, ginger, cardamom, galangal, and other familiar spices. Among them, cardamom and galangal are the ‘secrets’ that create a unique aroma that only those deeply connected to the mountains and forests can fully appreciate.” The meat is cleaned, boiled, the skin is pricked, and then lightly fried until golden brown, creating an attractive crust. Cardamom is roasted over charcoal to release its fragrance, and other spices are ground to extract their juices. Once the meat is dry, the cook slices it into thick pieces, places them in a small bowl, and pours the spice mixture over them. The bowl of meat is covered tightly so that when steamed for 3-4 hours, condensation on the lid doesn't drip in, preserving the flavor.

Authentic braised pork belly (khau nhục) is characterized by tender, succulent meat, a golden-brown skin, and a fragrant aroma of cardamom and galangal. The Tay people have a unique way of appreciating it: just a light touch of the meat releases the mountain and forest flavors into the mouth, subtle yet profound, carrying with it the customs and way of life of the community. In the life of the Tay people, braised pork belly is not only an everyday dish but is always present on important occasions: festivals, weddings, housewarming parties, Then wine pouring ceremonies, birthdays… This dish is often enjoyed with sticky rice or rice cakes, two specialties closely associated with the lives of the Tay people.

Enjoying braised pork belly (khau nhục) is a unique cultural experience of the highland people. It is the culmination of skillful hands, patience, hospitality, and the pride of the Tay people. Amidst modern life, the rich and delicious flavor of this dish has become an unforgettable mark on the culinary map of Bac Ninh.

Thu Hang

Source: https://baobacninhtv.vn/mon-khau-nhuc-thom-huong-vi-nui-rung-postid431570.bbg