Stovetop Braised Pork with Tamarind and Coconut Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Succulent pork slow-braised in a tangy tamarind and creamy coconut sauce infused with aromatic spices. This asian fusion-inspired pork ready in about 65 minutes blends cut into 1-inch cubes pork shoulder, salt, black pepper into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 410 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 50 min Serves 4 Asian Fusion cuisine 410 cal/serving
Plan a meal with the AI → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season 1 lb pork shoulder cubes with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Step 2: Add the pork cubes in a single layer and sear for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.
  3. Step 3: Remove pork and set aside. In the same skillet, add 1 diced medium yellow onion, 4 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger. Sauté over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and onions are translucent.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 1 tsp ground coriander and 1 tsp ground cumin, cooking for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Step 5: Return pork to the pan and add 2 tbsp tamarind paste, 1 cup coconut milk, and 1/2 cup water. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Step 6: Reduce heat to low, cover, and braise for 45 minutes until pork is tender and sauce has thickened.
  7. Step 7: Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Knives & cutting boards → Shop all kitchen tools →

Frequently asked questions

How long does Stovetop Braised Pork with Tamarind and Coconut Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 65 minutes (15 min prep + 50 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Stovetop Braised Pork with Tamarind and Coconut Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Stovetop Braised Pork with Tamarind and Coconut Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Stovetop Braised Pork with Tamarind and Coconut Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Stovetop Braised Pork with Tamarind and Coconut Sauce?

Asian Fusion pork like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

Related recipes