Authentic Vietnamese Grilled Pork Sausage (Nem Nuong) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 kg of minced pork
  • 5 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 1 handful of chopped spring onions
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced pork, minced garlic, sugar, fish sauce, cornstarch, black pepper, baking powder, and vegetable oil. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  2. Cover the bowl and let the mixture marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  3. After marinating, take a handful of the pork mixture and shape it into a sausage-like form. Thread it onto a soaked wooden skewer. Repeat this step until all the pork mixture is used.
  4. Preheat your grill or broiler. Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred.
  5. While the skewers are cooking, heat up some oil in a pan and sauté the chopped spring onions until they are slightly wilted.
  6. Once the skewers are done, brush them with the sautéed spring onions and oil.
  7. Serve the Nem Nuong hot with your favorite dipping sauce and sides.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • For a different flavor, you can add finely chopped lemongrass to the pork mixture.
  • Experiment with different ground meats such as chicken, beef, or a combination of both.
  • Add grated ginger or minced chili peppers to add some heat to the Nem Nuong.
  • To make it gluten-free, replace the cornstarch with potato starch or tapioca starch.
  • For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the minced pork with finely chopped mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
  • Try grilling the Nem Nuong over charcoal for a smoky flavor.
  • Instead of using wooden skewers, wrap the pork mixture around lemongrass stalks for a unique presentation and added flavor.
  • Serve the Nem Nuong in lettuce wraps with fresh herbs and pickled vegetables for a refreshing twist.
  • Add a tablespoon of sesame oil to the pork mixture to give it a nutty aroma.
  • For a sweeter taste, you can add a small amount of hoisin sauce or honey to the marinade.

Recipe overview

Nem Nuong is a popular Vietnamese dish known for its aromatic grilled pork skewers. This recipe is a simple and delicious way to experience the unique flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. The pork is marinated with garlic, fish sauce, sugar, and various spices, then grilled until it's perfectly cooked and slightly charred. The skewers are then brushed with sautéed spring onions for an extra burst of flavor. From start to finish, you can expect a flavorful journey that culminates in a truly satisfying meal. Whether you serve Nem Nuong as an appetizer or main course, it's sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or family dinner. Enjoy the process of making this dish and the wonderful flavors it offers.

Common questions

  1. Can I use ground beef instead of minced pork?
    Yes, you can substitute ground beef for the minced pork if you prefer.
  2. Can I use a grill pan or oven instead of a grill?
    Yes, you can use a grill pan or oven to cook the Nem Nuong if you don't have access to a grill. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  3. Can I make the Nem Nuong mixture ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the Nem Nuong mixture ahead of time and keep it stored in the fridge. Just make sure to shape and cook the skewers when you are ready to serve.
  4. What dipping sauce goes well with Nem Nuong?
    A popular dipping sauce for Nem Nuong is a combination of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili. However, you can use any sauce of your preference.
  5. Can I freeze the cooked Nem Nuong?
    Yes, you can freeze the cooked Nem Nuong. Just make sure to cool them completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grill or Broiler - For cooking the Nem Nuong skewers to perfection.
  • Mixing Bowl - To combine all the ingredients for the pork mixture.
  • Wooden Skewers - Used to thread the shaped pork mixture for grilling.
  • Pan - To sauté the spring onions for brushing on the skewers.
  • Brush - To brush the sautéed spring onions onto the cooked skewers.

Origin stories

Nem Nuong is a classic dish that hails from the vibrant culinary landscape of Vietnam. This delicacy is often associated with the city of Nha Trang, a coastal resort city in southern Vietnam known for its pristine beaches and excellent seafood. The locals have a unique way of eating Nem Nuong; they wrap the grilled pork skewers in rice paper together with fresh herbs, a slice of green banana, and starfruit, then dip it into a special sauce made of fermented soybean and ground pork liver. The combination of the savory grilled pork, fresh herbs, sour fruits, and the umami-rich sauce creates a symphony of flavors that is quintessentially Vietnamese. This dish reflects the balance and harmony in Vietnamese cuisine - a balance of flavors, textures, and even colors. It's more than just a meal, it's a sensory experience, and a delightful insight into the culture and lifestyle of Vietnam.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.