When Lisa recently asked me where to find authentic Thai food in Penang away from the usual spots. It sparked memories of my culinary journey that transported me straight to Thailand’s lively soi or streets.
Unearthing a hidden gem, I discovered one of my all-time favorite Thai comfort foods: pork leg rice or kao ka moo.
I often eat Pork and holy Basil Stir-fry (Pad Kra Pao) or phad Thai because it is hard to find classic braised Pork Leg rice!
Pork Leg Rice – A Thai Classic
Pork Leg Rice in Thailand is akin to Penang’s beloved Chicken Rice or Lor Mee—ubiquitous and reliably satisfying.
One famous Pork Leg Rice spot in Bangkok is in Silom.
The Kha Mu Charoensang Silom is renowned for its mastery in preparing this dish.
I remember visiting in 2017, and we went there at 3 pm and couldn’t find the shop.
Later, we discovered their Daily Business Hours were 7 am–1 pm.
I remembered that ML described the pork leg stewed in a rich, aromatic gravy with Chinese herbs.
It has a delicious caramelized, tantalizing flavor.
“It is so delicious that when you think about it, you must come to this shop to eat, eat and eat.”
Thai Original Pork Leg Rice
After my hair appointment, I asked Anita for recommendations on what to eat at the Old City Food Court behind her shop.
‘If you eat pork, try the Thai Original Pork Leg Rice. It is very tasty.’
Debbie and I went for lunch and found a handful of Thai food stalls.
I’ve eaten at the other stalls, and the food is delicious as the stall operators and cooks are all Thai people.
I was delighted to rediscover the comforting aroma of Thai pork leg rice, which evoked memories of my past Thai adventures.
Thai Original Pork Leg Rice in Penang
Khao Kha Moo (Braised Pork Leg Rice) ข้าวขาหมู
Khao Kha Moo, or Pork Leg Rice, embodies quintessential Thai street food culture.
It’s a savory, mildly sweet taste that appeals to adults and children alike.
You get served a mound of steaming white rice topped with the signature soft braised pork leg.
The dish has a rich, umami flavor.
There is a subtle notes of soy, star anise, and the fragrance of screw pine.
The aroma creates a taste that is both familiar and unique.
Like the Nyonya braised pork, this dish is a labor of culinary love that rewards patience with every delicious bite.
The boiled eggs, preserved mustard greens, and kalian add even more umami.
The dish is excellent on its own and for sharing.
Thai Original Pork Leg Rice Stall
Braised Pork Leg Influenced by Chinese Cuisine
Drawing from Chinese Teochew influences, kao ka moo presents stewed pig’s trotter in a flavorful, aromatic broth.
This dish in Thailand offers a comforting hot meal without the heat and spice of Thai cuisine.
It is a savory alternative to quick bites like pork skewers.
Familiar food like pad thai, or mango sticky rice and boasts satisfying flavors that are well worth the wait.
What to Order?
Set 1 – Pork Leg Rice
Set 2 – Pork Leg Meat Only
Set 3 – Pork Leg Khaki
Set 4 – Vegetable & Bean curds
The prices are for small (RM16) and large (RM22) portions, which are worth the price.
We got the small Set 2—Pork Leg Meat Only.
It came with a mound of fragrant jasmine rice, chopped-up chunks of pork accompanied by sliced pickled Chinese mustard greens, blanched kalian, and a halved braised egg.
The pork, has tender jiggly skin and succulent meat.
It is bathed in a savory-sweet sauce, provided a delightful texture and taste experience that was truly unforgettable.
The sauce was a masterpiece!
Thick with collagen and layered with umami from soy sauce and the fragrance of screw pines.
Perfectly balanced with sweetness and rich pork flavors.
A serving of Pork Leg Rice
The chili-vinegar dipping sauce is a mandatory zesty contrast, brightening up this rich, slow-cooked dish.
I like the chilies; garlic can mellow out and doesn’t taste too harsh and raw when you eat it.
The pork is tender and has a melt-in-your-mouth taste.
At first, I wasn’t sure about eating the pork skin with its layer of wobbly white fat.
Debbie encouraged me, ‘It’s nice, full of collagen and without any porky smell.’
I tried it – the skin, a layer of fat, and flavorful meat combine for a wonderful mouthfeel of textures.
The luscious, savory-sweet, fragrant sauce enhanced each mouthful, leaving a lingering desire for more.
I like the pork better when I douse it with more sauce and sort of ‘banjir’ my rice.
Close-up of Braised Pork Leg with Kailan
Where to Find Thai Pork Leg Rice in Penang
Visit the Old City Food Court at Prima Tanjung in Penang for an unparalleled taste of authentic Thai pork leg rice.
I’ve been to this non-halal haven twice and will return for more.
It has become my go-to spot for savoring Thailand’s comforting street food.
Parking
You can park in the basement.
The parking area is spacious and often has available spots.
There is no need to jostle for on-the-road parking, which makes it convenient for those driving to the food court.
Thai Original Pork Leg Rice
Location: OLD CITY FOOD COURT, Ground Floor, Prima Tanjung,
Jalan Fettes, Tanjung Tokong, 11200 Penang
Hours: Daily: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Closed on Saturday
Google: https://g.co/kgs/gra9BL1
