Vietnamese grilled pork, or “thit nuong,” is a flavorful and aromatic dish that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. Its versatility allows it to be served in various ways, from vibrant rice bowls to refreshing lettuce wraps and classic banh mi sandwiches. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- Pork Shoulder or Pork Loin: 1 pound, thinly sliced
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Shallots: 2, minced
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Fish Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Lemon Grass: 1 stalk, finely chopped (optional)
For Serving:
- Cooked Rice or Rice Noodles: For bowls
- Lettuce Leaves: For wraps
- Banh Mi Bread: For sandwiches
- Fresh Herbs: Mint, cilantro, and basil
- Pickled Vegetables: Carrots and daikon (optional)
- Sliced Cucumbers: For garnish
- Chili Sauce: For added heat (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Pork: In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, shallots, sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and lemon grass (if using). Add the thinly sliced pork to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Grill the Pork: Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the pork from the marinade and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the pork is cooked through and has a nice char. The sugar in the marinade will caramelize, giving the pork a delightful sweetness.
- Prepare the Serving Options:
- For Rice Bowls: Serve the grilled pork over a bed of cooked rice or rice noodles. Top with fresh herbs, sliced cucumbers, and pickled vegetables for added flavor and texture.
- For Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps. Place a portion of the grilled pork in the center, add fresh herbs, and drizzle with chili sauce before wrapping it up.
- For Banh Mi: Slice a baguette open and fill it with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of chili sauce for a delicious sandwich.
- Garnish and Serve: No matter which option you choose, garnish with additional fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of brightness.
Tips for Perfect Vietnamese Grilled Pork
- Cutting the Pork: For tender grilled pork, slice the meat thinly against the grain. This helps to break down the fibers and ensures a more tender bite.
- Marinade Variations: Feel free to experiment with the marinade by adding other spices or aromatics like five-spice powder or ginger for a unique twist.
- Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep! You can marinate a larger batch of pork and grill it all at once for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Conclusion
Vietnamese grilled pork is a deliciously versatile dish that can elevate any meal, whether served in a bowl, wrapped in lettuce, or stuffed into a banh mi. With its aromatic flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of Vietnamese cuisine and delight your family and friends with this satisfying and flavorful dish!
