Vietnamese Grilled Pork Skewers (Thịt Nướng)

Discover the essence of Vietnamese street food with this delectable recipe for Thịt Nướng. These grilled pork skewers are a staple at any Vietnamese feast, offering a perfect balance of savory and aromatic flavors that tantalize your taste buds. Traditionally enjoyed with fresh herbs and a tangy dipping sauce, they’re an irresistible treat both at home or during festive gatherings.
“Thịt nướng: A symphony of flavors wrapped around succulent meat.”
Highlights
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 250kcal per serving
Ingredients
For the Pork Skewers:
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 2 stalks lemongrass, white parts only, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
For the Dipping Sauce (Nuoc Cham):
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili pepper, sliced (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, lime juice, and black pepper. Mix until the sugar dissolves completely.
Marinate the Pork: Add the pork strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
Prepare Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated pork pieces onto soaked bamboo skewers.
Grill the Pork Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Turn occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, water, minced garlic, and sliced chili pepper (if using). Adjust sweetness or acidity according to taste.
Serve Hot: Arrange grilled pork skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro and mint. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side.
Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for this recipe may vary based on ingredients selected or substituted:
- Serving: 1 skewer
- Calories: 250kcal
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 4g
Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of Vietnamese Grilled Pork Skewers, perfect for any occasion. Pair them with a crisp salad or steamed rice to complete your meal. These skewers are not only delicious but also embody the vibrant spirit of Vietnam’s culinary tradition—simple yet full of life and flavor!