Festive Chả Feast: Vietnamese Grilled Pork Roll Recipe

Ingredients

500g of pork shoulder
100g of pork skin
2 tablespoons of fish sauce
1 tablespoon of sugar
1/2 tablespoon of pepper
5 cloves of garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
15g of wood ear mushrooms, soaked and finely chopped
200g of rice flour
1 tablespoon of tapioca starch
500ml of water
Fresh herbs and lettuce for serving
Nem sauce for dipping

Steps and instructions

First, prepare the pork skin by cleaning it thoroughly and boiling it in water for about 15 minutes until it becomes soft. Allow it to cool then cut into thin strips.
Next, prepare the pork shoulder by cutting it into thin slices. Mix it with the fish sauce, sugar, pepper, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes.
Heat the vegetable oil in a pan and sauté the marinated pork until it's fully cooked. Add the chopped wood ear mushrooms and the sliced pork skin. Stir well and remove from heat.
In a large bowl, mix the rice flour and tapioca starch with water, stirring well to ensure no lumps remain. Add this mixture to the cooked pork and mix well.
Grease a baking dish with a little oil then pour the mixture into it. Steam for about 40-60 minutes until the mixture becomes firm and fully cooked.
Let it cool completely before cutting into thin slices.
Serve with fresh herbs, lettuce, and Nem sauce for dipping.

Tools for making

Cutting board - For preparing the ingredients and slicing the pork.
Knife - To cut the pork shoulder, onion, and garlic.
Mixing bowl - To marinate the pork and mix the rice flour mixture.
Pan - For sautéing the pork and mushrooms.
Steamer or steaming rack - To steam the Chả mixture.
Baking dish - To pour the Chả mixture for steaming.
Serving platter - To present the Chả slices.
Tongs or spatula - For flipping and removing the Chả from the steamer or baking dish.
Plates and utensils - For serving and enjoying the Chả.

Recipe variations

Use chicken or beef instead of pork for a different flavor.
Replace the pork skin with tofu skin or seitan for a meat-free option.
Add shredded carrots or jicama for extra crunch and flavor.
Experiment with different herbs such as Thai basil, mint, or cilantro.
Try using different dipping sauces like peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce.
Add chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour or rice flour instead of wheat flour.
Instead of steaming, you can also deep-fry the Chả for a crispy texture.

Recipe overview

Chả Fest is a delightful Vietnamese dish that combines savory pork shoulder, tender pork skin, and fragrant seasonings into a steamed rice cake. This traditional recipe takes some time and preparation, but the result is a unique and flavorful dish that can be served as a main course or as an appetizer. The dish is characterized by its soft yet firm texture, thanks to the combination of rice flour and tapioca starch. The addition of wood ear mushrooms adds a pleasant crunch, while the mix of fish sauce, garlic, and onions infuses the pork with an irresistible umami flavor. To top it all off, the dish is served with fresh herbs, lettuce, and a tangy Nem sauce for dipping. It's a wonderful introduction to Vietnamese cuisine, and a must-try for any food lover.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork shoulder?
Yes, you can use beef, chicken, or even tofu as a substitute for pork shoulder. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Can I skip the pork skin in this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the pork skin if you prefer. However, it adds a nice texture to the dish and enhances the flavor. You can try substituting it with shrimp or additional vegetables.
Can I make the Chả in advance?
Yes, you can make Chả in advance. After steaming and cooling, you can refrigerate it for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, slice it and reheat briefly in a steamer or microwave.
Can I freeze Chả?
Yes, Chả can be frozen for longer storage. After steaming and cooling, cut it into slices and place them in an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
What is Nem sauce?
Nem sauce is a common Vietnamese dipping sauce that pairs well with Chả. It is made from a combination of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili. You can find pre-made Nem sauce in Asian grocery stores or make your own by combining these ingredients to taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

Steaming pot - a pot or steamer for steaming the Chả
Baking dish - a dish for baking and cooling the Chả
Knife - for slicing the Chả into thin pieces
Chopping board - for chopping ingredients
Mixing bowl - for mixing the rice flour and tapioca starch with water
Pan - for sautéing the marinated pork
Spoon or spatula - for stirring and mixing the ingredients
Platter or serving dish - for serving the Chả
Fresh herbs and lettuce - for serving with the Chả
Nem sauce - a sauce for dipping the Chả

Origin stories

Chả is a beloved staple in Vietnamese cuisine, with its origins steeped in the country's rich history. From the bustling street markets of Hanoi to the serene countryside of the Mekong Delta, Chả fest is a culinary celebration, honoring this versatile dish. The technique of steaming used in Chả preparation harkens back to Vietnam's agricultural roots when rice was primarily cooked in steamers. This cooking method was extended to meat dishes, resulting in the creation of Chả. Over the years, the dish has evolved with regional variations and ingredients, reflecting the diversity and richness of Vietnamese culture. Today, it's enjoyed not only as a main course but also as an important component in special occasions, symbolizing togetherness and cultural continuity.

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.