Pork Satay

Authentic Thai Pork Satay Recipe with Peanut Butter and Soy Sauce

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pork Satay is a delicious and flavorful dish that originates from Southeast Asia. It consists of marinated pork skewers grilled to perfection and served with a tasty peanut sauce. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a casual dinner with friends and family.

History

Satay is a popular street food in many Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. It is believed to have originated in Indonesia, where it is a traditional dish served during special occasions and celebrations. The dish has since spread to other parts of the world and has become a favorite among food lovers everywhere.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) boneless pork loin
0.25 cup peanut butter
2 tbsp soy sauce
0.5 tsp salt
2 tbsp steak sauce
1 tsp hot pepper sauce
10 dried apricots

How to prepare

Cut the pork into cubes.
Combine soy sauce and steak sauce, then pour over the pork.
Cover and refrigerate for several hours, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, simmer apricots in water for 5 minutes.
Place the apricots and cooking liquid in a blender container, then add peanut butter, salt, and hot pepper sauce.
Cover and process until smooth.
Reheat when ready to serve.
Thread the marinated pork cubes onto skewers.
Brush with the remaining soy sauce mixture, then cook over hot coals for 8 minutes, turning often.
Serve with warm sauce for dipping.

Variations

Substitute chicken or beef for the pork for a different flavor.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers and onions to the skewers for added color and texture.
Use different nut butters such as almond or cashew butter for a unique twist on the peanut sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the pork for several hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Soak the skewers in water before threading the pork to prevent them from burning on the grill.

- Brush the skewers with the marinade while grilling to keep the pork moist and flavorful.

- Serve the pork satay with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pork Satay with a side of steamed rice and a cucumber salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grill the pork skewers over hot coals for a smoky flavor, or broil them in the oven for a quick and easy alternative.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor.

- Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the pork and prepare the peanut sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the grilled pork skewers on a platter and drizzle the peanut sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Pork Satay with a cold beer or a glass of white wine for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Pork Satay in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pork Satay contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pork Satay contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pork Satay contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Pork Satay contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pork Satay is a good source of vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and soy sauce, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Pork Satay is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Pork Satay is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a casual dinner or a summer barbecue. With a flavorful marinade and a tasty peanut sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Pork Satay. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Indonesia. My mother had sent me to the market to pick up some ingredients for dinner, and as I walked through the bustling stalls, the aroma of grilled meats wafted through the air and drew me towards a small street vendor.

The vendor, an elderly man with weathered hands and a kind smile, was grilling skewers of marinated pork over an open flame. The scent was intoxicating, and I couldn't resist buying a few skewers to take home. As I savored the tender, flavorful meat, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I approached the vendor and asked him for his secret recipe, but he simply laughed and said, "A good cook never reveals all of her secrets, my dear. But I can teach you the basics." And so, every day after school, I would visit the vendor and watch as he prepared the marinade, skewered the meat, and grilled it to perfection.

I learned that the key to a delicious Pork Satay lies in the marinade – a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sugar to caramelize the meat. The vendor taught me how to score the pork to allow the flavors to penetrate, and how to grill it slowly over a low flame to ensure it stayed juicy and tender.

As the weeks passed, I became more confident in my cooking skills and started experimenting with different ingredients and techniques. I added a dash of lemongrass for a fresh, citrusy flavor, and a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick. Each time I made Pork Satay, it reminded me of the vendor who had inspired me to learn and grow as a cook.

Years later, when I moved to America and started a family of my own, Pork Satay became a staple in our household. My children would beg me to make it for special occasions, and I would always oblige with a smile, knowing that the recipe had been passed down through generations and would continue to bring joy and comfort to my loved ones.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar smells and sounds of cooking, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It may have started with a chance encounter at a market in Indonesia, but it has since become a cherished tradition that connects me to my past and to the people who have influenced me along the way.

So the next time you bite into a juicy, flavorful skewer of Pork Satay, remember that behind every dish lies a story – a story of love, perseverance, and the joy of sharing good food with those you hold dear. And perhaps, if you're lucky, you'll be inspired to create your own culinary masterpiece, just like I was all those years ago.