Com Thit Nuong: Easy Vietnamese Grilled Pork

Name: Com Thit Nuong: Easy Vietnamese Grilled Pork
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: Pork: Thinly sliced pork shoulder or belly for juicy and tender results.; Fish sauce: The soul of Vietnamese cooking, delivering rich umami.; Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelization during grilling.; Garlic and shallots: Provide aromatic depth.; Lemongrass: A citrusy kick to elevate the flavors.; Soy sauce: Enhances the savory profile.; Vegetable oil: Keeps the pork moist during grilling.; Optional: Chili flakes for a hint of spice.; Steamed jasmine rice: A fluffy base for your grilled pork.; Pickled carrots and daikon: Add tangy crunch.; Fresh herbs: Vietnamese coriander, mint, or cilantro for a refreshing finish.; Nuoc cham sauce: A sweet, tangy, and savory dipping sauce.

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Ever wondered why com thit nuong, Vietnamese grilled pork, is so loved? It's not just the tender meat that draws people in. It's the rich culture and special cooking ways that make it stand out. Like the Beef Kafta recipe, com thit nuong showcases how a simple marinade can transform meat into a mouthwatering masterpiece.

I love food, and com thit nuong fascinates me. It's a mix of old traditions and new ideas. This makes it a favorite in Vietnam and worldwide. Let's uncover what makes this grilled pork so irresistible.

Why I Love Vietnamese Grilled Pork

Com tam thit nuong, the Vietnamese grilled pork vermicelli dish, is a true delight. It has a rich history and cultural significance. This makes it a standout in Vietnamese cuisine.

The roots of com tam thit nuong go back to Vietnam's lively streets and markets. The smell of char-grilled pork has filled the air for years. It's more than just food; it celebrates Vietnam's diverse culinary traditions.

Com tam thit nuong is special because of its perfect mix of flavors and textures. The grilled pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh garnishes create a dish that's both comforting and exciting. The sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, along with the texture, make it a masterpiece.

Essential Ingredients for Com Thit Nuong

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield: 4 servings
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Vietnamese

Making a true com thit nuong recipe, the famous Vietnamese barbecue pork dish, needs careful picking of ingredients. Let's look at the key parts that make up this tasty dish.

For the Pork and Marinade

Pork: Thinly sliced pork shoulder or belly for juicy and tender results.

Fish sauce: The soul of Vietnamese cooking, delivering rich umami.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelization during grilling.
Garlic and shallots: Provide aromatic depth.

Lemongrass: A citrusy kick to elevate the flavors.
Soy sauce: Enhances the savory profile.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the pork moist during grilling.

Optional: Chili flakes for a hint of spice.

For Serving

Steamed jasmine rice: A fluffy base for your grilled pork.
Pickled carrots and daikon: Add tangy crunch.

Fresh herbs: Vietnamese coriander, mint, or cilantro for a refreshing finish.
Nuoc cham sauce: A sweet, tangy, and savory dipping sauce.

By choosing and using these key ingredients, you can bring the real flavors of com thit nuong to your home. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of Vietnamese cuisine.

Perfect Marinade and Preparation Techniques

Making the perfect grilled pork viet (com thit nuong) is more than just grilling meat. It's about the marinade and preparation that give it that authentic Vietnamese taste. Let's explore the key elements and steps to make your com thit nuong recipe a hit.

Traditional Marinade Components

The traditional Vietnamese marinade for grilled pork viet is a mix of aromatics and savory flavors. It includes:

Fish sauce: This umami-rich condiment adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Brown sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the saltiness of the fish sauce.
Garlic and shallots: These fragrant ingredients infuse the pork with their distinctive aroma.

Lemongrass: This citrusy herb lends a fresh, herbal note to the marinade.
Chili peppers (optional): For those who love a little heat, chili peppers can be added to the mix.

Meat Selection and Preparation

The choice of pork cut is crucial for com thit nuong. Choose pork shoulder or pork butt for tenderness and juiciness. Trim excess fat and slice the pork into thin strips or cubes for better flavor and cooking.

Marinating Time and Tips

The marinating process is key for a flavorful grilled pork viet.

Let the pork marinate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours for the best flavor.
Turn and massage the pork often to ensure even marinade distribution.

This step is vital for achieving the perfect sweet, savory, and smoky taste in your com thit nuong recipe.

How to Grill Vietnamese Pork Like a Pro

Grilling Vietnamese grilled pork, or com thit nuong, is an art. It needs finesse. But with the right techniques, you can get that charred outside and juicy inside.

First, make sure your vietnamese barbecue pork is at room temperature. This helps it cook evenly. Then, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-205°C).

Place the pork on the grill, making sure not to overcrowd the grates. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until you see a nice char developing.
Baste the pork with the reserved marinade as it cooks, being careful not to oversaturate the meat.
Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning, and use tongs to flip the pork rather than a fork, which can release valuable juices.

Cook the grilled pork vermicelli until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain and serving.

The secret to perfect grilled pork is temperature control and careful basting. With practice, you'll grill vietnamese barbecue pork like a pro.

Serving and Accompaniments

Serving com thit nuong, a Vietnamese dish, has its own traditions. It's often served with grilled pork on top of white rice or vermicelli noodles. This way, the meat's juices mix with the rice or noodles, creating a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Com tam thit nuong is also paired with fresh side dishes. These include:

Pickled carrots and daikon radish for a tangy crunch
Fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and perilla for a refreshing taste
Nuoc cham, a savory-sweet dipping sauce, for extra flavor

Sliced cucumber and tomato for a crisp, hydrating touch

The way com thit nuong is presented also matters. Traditionally, the pork is arranged artfully on the plate. The rice or noodles are at the base, and the sides are placed around the pork. This makes the dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.

By following these traditional serving methods and adding the right side dishes, you can fully enjoy the authentic taste of com thit nuong.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 400
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 850mg

Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g

Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g

Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Com thit nuong is more than just grilled pork viet; it’s a journey through Vietnamese culture and flavors. With its sweet, savory marinade and perfectly grilled pork, this dish is sure to captivate your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it over rice or as grilled pork vermicelli, this recipe is a must-try for any food lover.

Ready to bring Vietnamese barbecue pork into your kitchen? Try this recipe, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite variations. For more mouthwatering recipes, explore the treasures at So Damn Delish!

FAQs

Q: What is Com Thit Nuong?

A: Com Thit Nuong is a favorite Vietnamese dish. It's grilled pork served with rice. This street food is loved worldwide for its tasty mix of flavors and textures.

Q: What makes Com Thit Nuong special?

A: The dish is special because of its grilled pork and fluffy rice. The pork is marinated in spices and herbs. This gives it a rich flavor that goes well with the rice.

Q: What are the essential ingredients for making Com Thit Nuong?

A: You need thinly sliced pork and a marinade of fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and shallots. Jasmine rice is also key. Pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and dipping sauces add to the dish.

Q: How do I create the perfect marinade for the grilled pork?

A: The marinade should mix savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors. Use fish sauce, sugar, garlic, shallots, and lemongrass. Let the pork marinate for hours or overnight to soak up the flavors.

Q: What's the best way to grill the pork for Com Thit Nuong?

A: Grill the pork at high heat for a charred outside and juicy inside. Baste it with marinade while grilling. This caramelizes the outside and keeps flavors in.

Q: How do I serve and enjoy Com Thit Nuong?

A: Serve it with jasmine rice or vermicelli noodles. Add grilled pork, pickled vegetables, herbs, peanuts, and nuoc cham sauce. This makes for a delicious meal.

Q: Are there any variations or modern twists on Com Thit Nuong?

A: Yes, there are many variations. You can use different pork cuts or try new marinades. Even add the pork to banh mi sandwiches or rice bowls for a twist.