Vietnamese Nem Nuong Recipe

Originating in the 1960s in South Vietnam, Nem Nuong literally means grilled pork patties. This classic Vietnamese dish features ground pork, herbs and spices, and is often served on a bed of lettuce, cucumber, and peanuts. Nem Nuong has become a favorite around the world and is a refreshing and fun way to enjoy Vietnamese cuisine.

Ingredients

• ½ lb ground pork
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons minced green onion or chives
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons room temperature water

Instructions

1. In a bowl, gently knead together the ground pork, fish sauce, garlic, onion or chives, sugar, ground black pepper, and sesame oil until everything is evenly mixed.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water to form a paste.

3. Add the paste to the meat mixture and knead together until everything is evenly mixed.

4. Divide the mixture into golf ball-sized portions. Roll each portion between your palms to form a ball.

5. Heat a lightly greased skillet over medium-high heat.

6. Place the pork balls into the skillet and cook, turning frequently, for 8-10 minutes until the pork is cooked through and lightly browned.

7. Serve the pork balls warm on a bed of lettuce, cucumber, and peanuts. Enjoy!