Prahok Ktis – Pork and Coconut Dip

Steps

1. 1
   Step 1:

   Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.

   1 min
2. 2
   Step 2:

   Add 4 cloves minced garlic and 2 finely chopped shallots to the skillet, stirring constantly until fragrant and lightly golden, 2–3 minutes.

   2–3 min
3. 3
   Step 3:

   Tip: Keep the heat medium to prevent burning—garlic can turn bitter if overcooked.

4. 4
   Step 4:

   Add 1 lb ground pork to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until no pink remains, 5–7 minutes.

   5–7 min
5. 5
   Step 5:

   Stir in 3 tbsp prahok and cook for 1 minute to blend the flavors, mashing it slightly into the pork.

   1 min
6. 6
   Step 6:

   Pour in 1 cup coconut milk, stirring to combine, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

   10 min
7. 7
   Step 7:

   Tip: Simmer gently to avoid curdling the coconut milk—a steady bubble is ideal.

8. 8
   Step 8:

   Add 2 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp palm sugar, and 2 minced Thai chilies, stirring until the sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes.

   2 min
9. 9
   Step 9:

   Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 2 tbsp lime juice, mixing thoroughly.

10. 10
    Step 10:

    Tip: Add lime juice off the heat to preserve its fresh, tangy flavor without cooking it out.

11. 11
    Step 11:

    Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro.

12. 12
    Step 12:

    Let the dip cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

    5 min