Khao kha mu

Khao kha mu is a Thai dish which consists of braised pork leg served over rice, complemented with a variety of side dishes and flavorful condiments. The leg is shortly seared and then braised in a flavorful broth which is usually spiced with anise, coriander, five spice powder, soy sauce, brown or palm sugar, and cinnamon.

The spices infuse the meat, and the whole process results in a tender, succulent, and incredibly flavorful dish. Boiled eggs, mustard greens, and the leafy Chinese broccoli kana are also added and cooked in the same broth. In Thailand, khao kha mu is usually sold by numerous street vendors who exclusively prepare it as their specialty.

At many street food stalls, it is possible to order the entire leg, accompanied by rice and various side dishes and condiments, or choose a small serving of rice, topped with sliced pieces of tender pork meat. Every serving should include a piece of lean meat, chunks of thick, glutinous skin, and a side of broccoli, mustard greens, and sliced boiled eggs.

Raw garlic and fresh chili peppers are occasionally served on the side, but they are more commonly incorporated into a sour and fiery sauce which is used to generously season this exquisite Thai dish.