Wetha See Byan (Dry Pork Curry)(Origin: Burmese)
Wetha See Byan is a flavorful Burmese dry pork curry featuring tender pork, aromatic spices, tamarind, and lemon grass, perfect for those who enjoy bold, savory dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut pork into 5 cm (2-inch) pieces.
- Remove excess fat, but a little fat on the meat is acceptable.
- Puree and cook onion, garlic, ginger, chili, and turmeric.
- When well cooked, add pork and simmer gently in its own juices until tender.
- Add crushed or finely chopped lemon grass or lemon rind, tamarind liquid, and fish sauce.
- Stir well and cook until all water has evaporated and the oil separates from the gravy.
- Optionally, add extra chili powder for a hotter curry or stir in a piece of hot Indian mango pickle.
- At the end of cooking, add slices of lemon, chopped fresh coriander leaves, or chopped spring onions if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the pork in the spices for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have tamarind liquid, you can substitute it with a mix of lime juice and a bit of brown sugar for acidity. When cooking, ensure the pork is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. Adjust the chili powder according to your heat preference, especially if you're a fan of dishes like Shrimp Curry With Coconut Milk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dry pork curry with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy naan for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with a side of fresh cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance the rich flavors. For an exciting twist, try serving it alongside dishes like Shrimp Hurry Curry for a delightful seafood spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the curry in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also add a splash of water to help loosen the sauce if it thickens. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to a month.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wetha See Byan (Dry Pork Curry)(Origin: Burmese) contains roughly 243 calories, with 6g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (136% of the Daily Value), potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 997mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other meats instead of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pork with chicken or beef, though cooking times may vary. Make sure to adjust the simmering time until the meat is tender. For a lighter option, try using shrimp or fish, but reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
What can I serve with Wetha See Byan?
This dry pork curry goes well with steamed rice or flatbreads like naan or roti. You can also serve it with a side of fresh salad or pickles to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. For a complete meal, consider adding a spicy shrimp dish from our seafood recipes collection.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat level, add more chili powder or include fresh chopped green chilies during cooking. You could also stir in some hot Indian mango pickle at the end for an extra kick. Adjust according to your taste preferences, especially if you enjoy spicy dishes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).