Delicious & Simple Thai Style Pork Patties

• Ingredients

  500g minced pork
  2 tablespoons toasted rice powder
  2 kaffir lime leaves, very finely sliced
  1 stalk lemongrass, very finely chopped
  2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely chopped
  1 red chilli, finely chopped
  Small handful coriander, roughly chopped
  1 egg

  
  Vegetable oil, for frying

  The Seasoning

  1 tablespoon fish sauce
  ½ teaspoon sugar

  Sweet chilli sauce

PREPARATION

Method

1. Toast raw rice grains in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. Transfer to a pestle and mortar and pound into a coarse toasted rice powder.
2. In a mixing bowl combine the minced pork, toasted rice powder, chopped garlic, ginger, chilli, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves and coriander.
3. Add the fish sauce, sugar and egg, then mix thoroughly. Massage the mixture well so the aromatics are evenly distributed through the meat.
4. Using the dim sum binding technique, scoop the mixture into your hand and repeatedly throw it back into the bowl about 10 times to remove air and help bind the meat together.
5. Once the mixture becomes slightly paler and firmer, shape it into golf ball sized portions and flatten gently into small patties.
6. Lightly dampen your hands with water if needed to help shape the patties smoothly.
7. Optionally sprinkle a little extra toasted rice powder on the outside of the patties for added crunch.

COOKING

1. Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown and lightly crisp.
3. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the pork is fully cooked and both sides are evenly browned.
4. Remove from the pan and drain briefly on kitchen paper.
5. Serve hot with sweet chilli sauce on the side.

School of Wok Tips

• Toast the rice slowly so it becomes golden and fragrant without burning.
• The dim sum binding technique helps the patties hold together and improves the texture.
• Chop the aromatics very finely so the patties cook evenly.
• Fry over medium-high heat so the patties develop a golden crust without drying out.

FAQs

What is toasted rice powder used for?
It adds a nutty flavour and slight crunch while also helping bind the meat mixture.

Can I make these patties with chicken instead of pork?
Yes. Minced chicken works well and produces a lighter version of the patties.

What should I serve with Thai pork patties?
They pair well with steamed jasmine rice, fresh herbs, lettuce leaves or sweet chilli dipping sauce.