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Thai Spicy Pork Bones Soup - 'Leng Saeb'

A comforting Thai soup made with pork bones, garlic, chilies, and rich spices that creates a harmonious blend of flavors for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pork Bones and Stock
  • 3 lb pork neck or back bones Choose high-quality, meaty bones for a richer broth.
  • 3.7 qt water For simmering.
  • 2 cups pork stock From the broth prepared above.
Aromatics and Seasoning
  • 1/2 large onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 1/2 head garlic, peeled and smashed Key flavor ingredient.
  • 1/2 tsp white peppercorns, cracked Adds a gentle warmth.
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce For added umami.
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce Essential for authentic flavor.
  • 3 tbsp lime juice Adds freshness.
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce, approx Adjust according to taste.
  • 2 tsp sugar Balances flavors.
Finishing Touches
  • 3 tbsp chopped garlic For the final touches.
  • 3-4 pieces Thai chilies, seeds removed Customize spice to your liking.
  • 2/3 cup chopped cilantro For garnish.
  • 1 cup Jasmine rice For serving.

Method
 

Make the Pork Stock
  1. In a large stock pot, add the pork bones, covering them with 3.7 qt water. Stir in soy sauce and fish sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Skim the Scum
  1. Skim off any scum that collects on the surface after about 30 minutes for a clearer broth.
Add Aromatics
  1. Toss in the onion, garlic, and cracked white peppercorns. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 1.5 hours until the meat is fork tender.
Prepare the Saeb Broth
  1. In a separate small pot, take 2 cups of the rich pork stock and bring it to a boil. Keep the pork bones in the broth to maintain moisture until you’re ready to serve.
Enhance with Flavor
  1. Pound the Thai chilies or chop them finely. Add them to the hot broth, turn off the heat, and immediately stir in the chopped garlic.
Season to Perfection
  1. Mix in the lime juice, sugar, and more fish sauce to taste. Set aside.
Serve
  1. On a deep platter, arrange the pork bones and ladle the seasoned broth over the top, ensuring the garlic and chilies rest on the bones. Top it off with chopped cilantro.
  2. Serve alongside fluffy jasmine rice.

Notes

Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. The soup flavors improve when made a day in advance.