Vietnamese
👍 Beginner Friendly
1h 15measy
VietnameseAppetizer
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsNem Nướng are traditional grilled pork skewers that showcase the balanced flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Ground pork is mixed with aromatic seasonings including garlic, fish sauce, and sugar, then shaped onto skewers and grilled until caramelized. The combination of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors creates an irresistible appetizer. These skewers are typically served alongside fresh herbs, lettuce leaves, and a tangy dipping sauce, allowing diners to wrap the meat in lettuce with herbs for a refreshing contrast. The texture is slightly bouncy and tender, achieved through proper mixing and grilling technique. Perfect for outdoor barbecues or indoor grilling, these skewers bring authentic street food flavor to your table.
Instructions
step by step0/10 done
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork with minced garlic, fish sauce, sugar, black pepper, and a small amount of vegetable oil. Mix thoroughly in one direction for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes sticky and cohesive.
Add finely chopped onions to the pork mixture and continue mixing for another 2 minutes until well incorporated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and meat to firm up.
Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
Wet your hands with water and take about 2-3 tablespoons of the pork mixture. Shape it into an elongated oval and press it firmly onto a skewer, creating a sausage-like shape about 4 inches long. Repeat with remaining mixture.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
Place skewers on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side until nicely charred.
Flip the skewers carefully and grill for another 6-7 minutes until fully cooked through and caramelized on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
Remove from grill and let rest for 2 minutes.
Serve hot with lettuce leaves, fresh herbs (cilantro and basil), cucumber slices, and dipping sauce on the side.
Nem Nướng - Grilled Pork Skewers
4.5 (20)
Aromatic grilled pork skewers seasoned with lemongrass and garlic, served with herbs and dipping sauce. These flavorful bites are perfect for gatherings or as a light meal starter.
medium
40 min
6 servings
Ingredients
0 of 10 checked
Main
- 600 grams Ground Beef, ground pork preferred
- 6 cloves Garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons Fish Sauce
- 1 pieces Onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoons Black Pepper, freshly ground
Serving
- 2 cups Lettuce, leaves separated
- 1 pieces Cucumber, sliced thin
- 4 tablespoons Cilantro, fresh leaves
- 3 teaspoons Basil, fresh leaves
Chef Tips
expert advice•For the best texture, mix the meat vigorously in one direction - this develops the protein structure and creates the characteristic bouncy texture.
•If the mixture is too sticky to handle, keep a bowl of water nearby to wet your hands frequently.
•You can add a tablespoon of baking powder to the mixture for an even springier texture, which is authentic to street vendor versions.
•For deeper flavor, marinate the mixture overnight.
•If you do not have a grill, these can be broiled in the oven on high for 5-6 minutes per side, or pan-fried in a grill pan.
•These skewers can also be removed from the skewers after cooking and wrapped in rice paper with vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving & Pairings
what goes well•Serve with traditional nuoc cham dipping sauce for authentic flavor.
Storage & Reheating
keeping it freshStorage
Store cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the skewers separate from lettuce and herbs. Raw shaped skewers can be frozen for up to 1 month - place them on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating
Reheat cooked skewers in a preheated 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally. For best results, reheat on the grill for 3-4 minutes to restore the charred exterior. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture rubbery.
