Heart-Healthy Thit Kho (Vietnamese Braised Pork and Eggs)

Transform your favorite comfort food into a guilt-free indulgence with this Heart-Healthy Thit Kho (Vietnamese Braised Pork and Eggs). This lightened-up version of a beloved Vietnamese classic swaps out traditional fatty cuts of pork for lean, protein-packed pork loin and uses low-sodium sauces for a flavorful yet heart-conscious twist. Simmered gently in fragrant garlic, shallots, and unsweetened coconut water, the tender pork and silky boiled eggs soak up a rich, slightly sweet sauce with just a hint of caramelized umami. A touch of avocado oil and vibrant garnishes like green onions and red chili finish this dish with wholesome flair. Perfectly paired with steamed brown rice or quinoa, this recipe delivers bold, authentic flavors while supporting a balanced, nutritious diet. Whether you’re prioritizing heart health or simply seeking delicious, nourishing meals, this thit kho brings tradition to your table with a healthy modern spin.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Lean pork loin, trimmed of fat
• 4 large Eggs
• 1 tablespoon Avocado oil
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 medium Shallots, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons Low-sodium fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon Low-sodium soy sauce
• 400 ml Coconut water, unsweetened
• 2 teaspoons Brown sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 2 stalks Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 small Red chili, sliced thin (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Cut the lean pork loin into 1-inch cubes. Set aside.

Step 2

Bring a medium pot of water to boil. Carefully lower the eggs into the water and boil for 8 minutes. Transfer them to an ice-water bath, peel, and set aside.

Step 3

In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots, sautéing until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4

Add the pork to the pot and sear the pieces on all sides until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the low-sodium fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Cook for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6

Pour in the coconut water, ensuring the pork is mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 40 minutes.

Step 7

After 40 minutes, add the boiled eggs to the pot, carefully spooning some of the sauce over them. Continue simmering uncovered for another 10 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed. Add ground black pepper and stir gently.

Step 9

Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with chopped green onions and sliced red chili (if using), and serve warm over steamed brown rice or quinoa for a heart-healthy pairing.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1269.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1316.5

Total Fat 50.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 14.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 1109mg	0%
Sodium 2168.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 43.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.1g	0%
Total Sugars 28.1g
Protein 164.9g	0%

Vitamin D 199IU	0%
Calcium 239.2mg	0%
Iron 10.6mg	0%
Potassium 3403.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.2%

Protein: 51.3%

Carbs: 13.6%