How to make Thit Kho Tau

Why cooks start here

Thit Kho Tau is cooked the way Tet pots cooks it — salt judged by hand, fat used generously, and the table set for sharing. This is the home version, written down the way a vietnamese family cook actually puts it on the table.

Thit Kho Tau is a staple of Vietnamese home cooking, especially during Tet, the Lunar New Year. It's a dish that embodies the essence of family gatherings without the need for fanfare. Prepared with a generous hand, its simplicity is part of its charm, with ingredients like pork belly and eggs simmered to perfection. This version captures the spirit of a family cook's approach, where salt is instinctively measured and shared meals are a given. Expect a symphony of savory and sweet, with tender pork belly luxuriating in a bath of coconut water and caramel sauce. The fish sauce adds depth, while the slow simmer allows flavors to meld seamlessly. Each bite offers a luscious, melt-in-the-mouth experience, with the eggs absorbing the rich, umami-laden broth. This is comfort food, served simply with a bowl of steamed rice, inviting everyone to dig in.