Easy Pork Belly & Daikon Recipe for Families Visiting Bali
Planning a family trip to Bali and want to enjoy a delicious, easy-to-make meal? This pork belly and daikon recipe combines traditional flavors with a Balinese twist, making it perfect for a kid-friendly dinner.
Using local ingredients like lemongrass and kecap manis, this dish is sure to become a family favorite during your tropical adventure!
Table of Contents
What is Pork Belly & Daikon?
Pork belly and daikon is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of tender pork belly with the refreshing taste of daikon radish.
This dish is not only savory and filling but also a family favorite. In this Bali-inspired version, we’ll use local spices and ingredients to give it a tropical twist.
Bali-Style Inspiration
While pork belly and daikon is a traditional Japanese dish, in Bali, we add local flavors like lemongrass, galangal, and kecap manis (sweet soy sauce). These ingredients bring a fragrant and slightly sweet taste that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Ingredients for 4 Kids
300g (10.5 oz) pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 medium daikon radish, peeled and cut into half-moon slices
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 stalk lemongrass, smashed and cut into 5cm pieces
1 slice galangal (about 2cm thick)
2 tablespoons kecap manis (sweet soy sauce)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
1 teaspoon white pepper
1 tablespoon cooking oil
400ml (1.7 cups) water
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Steps to Prepare
Prepare the Ingredients
Pork Belly: Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 cm in size. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy for kids to eat.
Daikon: Peel the daikon radish and cut it into half-moon slices, about 1 cm thick. This size allows the daikon to absorb the flavors while maintaining its texture.
Aromatics: Mince the garlic, smash the lemongrass stalk, and slice the galangal.
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large pot or deep pan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic, smashed lemongrass, and sliced galangal. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden. This step releases the aromatic oils and flavors.
Cook the Pork Belly
Add the pork belly pieces to the pot. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the pork is browned on all sides. Browning the pork helps to render the fat and adds a rich flavor to the dish.
Add the Daikon and Seasonings
Add the daikon slices to the pot and stir well.
Pour in the kecap manis, soy sauce, palm sugar, and white pepper. Stir to ensure the pork and daikon are evenly coated with the seasonings.
Allow the mixture to cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Simmer the Dish
Pour in 400ml of water and stir gently. Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pork belly should become tender, and the daikon should be soft and infused with the savory sauce.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the lemongrass and galangal from the pot.
Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or Balinese yellow rice (Nasi Kuning) for a complete, satisfying meal.
Tips for Serving Bali-Style
Tropical Garnishes: Add a slice of lime and fresh cilantro for a zesty finish.
Serve in a Coconut Bowl: For a true Balinese feel, serve the dish in coconut shell bowls.
Pair with Rice: Serve with fragrant jasmine rice or Balinese yellow rice (Nasi Kuning).
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (1/4 portion):
Calories: 250
Fat: 15g (6g saturated fat)
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 500mg
Carbohydrates: 15g (5g sugars, 2g fiber)
Protein: 12g
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken instead of pork belly?
A: Yes! You can substitute pork belly with chicken thighs for a leaner option.
Q: Where can I find kecap manis in Bali?
A: Kecap manis is available in most local supermarkets and traditional markets in Bali.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: No, this recipe is mild and kid-friendly. If you like spice, you can add a chopped chili.
Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: Yes! The flavors develop even more if you let it sit overnight in the fridge.
