Kai Pa Lo (Stewed Eggs) Recipe: A Taste of Thai Comfort Food
Welcome to the delightful world of Kai Pa Lo, a beloved Thai dish that features tender, flavorful eggs stewed in a rich sauce. This recipe is not only a delicious meal but also holds a special place in Thai cuisine. Traditionally prepared for special occasions, Kai Pa Lo combines the simplicity of eggs with aromatic spices, creating a comforting dish that warms both the heart and the belly.
Why is Kai Pa Lo so popular? It’s easy to make, affordable, and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress your friends with an exotic dish. Let’s dive into making this tasty stewed egg dish!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 6 large |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Star anise | 2 pieces |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 piece |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Thai basil (optional) | For garnish |
If you want to try something different, you can substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for a vegetarian version. Enjoy experimenting!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the eggs: Gently place the eggs in a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and cook for about 7 minutes. Once done, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool.
- Make the sauce: In a large pot, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, star anise, and the cinnamon stick. Pour in 2 cups of water and stir well.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Add the eggs: Carefully peel the cooled eggs and add them to the pot. Ensure the eggs are covered with the sauce.
- Stew the eggs: Cover the pot and let the eggs simmer in the sauce for 30 minutes. This will allow them to absorb all the delicious flavors!
- Serve: Once done, remove the pot from heat. Serve the Kai Pa Lo warm, garnished with fresh Thai basil if desired.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 200 | 10% |
| Protein | 12g | 24% |
| Carbohydrates | 14g | 5% |
| Fats | 10g | 15% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 35% |
Tips and Tricks
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a few more spices like ginger or garlic for an extra kick!
- Time your eggs: If you like softer eggs, reduce the boiling time to 6 minutes.
- Avoid burning: Keep the heat low when simmering to prevent the sauce from burning.
- Store leftovers: Leftover Kai Pa Lo can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving!
FAQs
Can I use different types of eggs?
Yes! You can use quail eggs or even duck eggs for a unique twist on this recipe.
What can I serve with Kai Pa Lo?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
How long does it take to make this dish?
From start to finish, Kai Pa Lo takes about 1 hour to prepare.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, Kai Pa Lo is not spicy. It has a savory flavor profile that is quite mild.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can cook it a day ahead and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! Substitute the oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or soy sauce to make it vegetarian.
What do I do if I burn the sauce?
If the sauce burns, try transferring the good liquid to a new pot without scraping the burnt bits.
Can I make this dish in a pressure cooker?
Yes! You can make Kai Pa Lo in a pressure cooker, reducing the cooking time significantly.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe typically serves 4 people, depending on portion sizes.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Certainly! Vegetables like carrots or potatoes can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to try making Kai Pa Lo at home! Enjoy this delicious Thai comfort food, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!
