In a large skillet, heat 1.5 tablespoons of your chosen neutral oil over high heat until shimmering. Add the minced pork, spreading it evenly in the pan and cook for 1 minute without stirring. Season with salt and black pepper, then cook for an additional 4 minutes, allowing it to brown deeply and form a nice crust. Once browned, remove excess fat from the skillet.

In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and heat it over medium-high. Toss in the sliced shallots and sauté for about 1 minute until they become translucent and fragrant. Add the minced ginger and fresh chili pepper to the pan, stirring continuously for another minute. Finally, introduce the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 15 seconds until aromatic.

Return the caramelized pork to the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Pour in the fish sauce and sprinkle the brown sugar, stirring everything together. Allow the mixture to cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until the sugar caramelizes.

Once the pork is beautifully caramelized, remove the skillet from heat and add the lime zest and lime juice. Toss in the sliced scallions, mixing briefly to combine.

Serve the savory caramels and pork mixture over a bed of white rice or crisp lettuce leaves. Drizzle with more lime if desired and garnish with additional scallion slices.