This Vietnamese lemongrass pork dish is a flavorful and aromatic meal that showcases the vibrant flavors of lemongrass and marinated pork. It’s perfect for serving over rice or in a banh mi sandwich.
The recipe involves marinating the pork to infuse it with the fragrant lemongrass and other spices, then grilling or pan-frying for a deliciously charred finish.
Flavorful Ingredients
The key to a memorable Vietnamese lemongrass pork dish lies in its vibrant ingredients.
Thinly sliced pork shoulder or loin serves as the foundation, offering a tender and juicy texture.
Lemongrass, a fragrant herb, is finely minced to infuse the meat with its citrusy aroma, while garlic adds depth to the flavor profile.
Fish sauce and soy sauce contribute umami richness, complemented by a touch of sugar for sweetness and black pepper for a hint of spice.
Fresh cilantro and red chili slices are used as garnishes, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Marination Process
Marinating the pork is a crucial step that enhances the overall taste.
Combining minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper creates a fragrant marinade that envelops the pork.
Allowing the pork to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, ensures that each slice absorbs the aromatic flavors, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the marinated pork can be done using a skillet or grill pan, both of which yield delicious results.
Heating vegetable oil over medium-high heat allows for a perfect sear, caramelizing the pork and creating a delightful crust.
Cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes ensures the meat is thoroughly cooked while retaining its juicy texture.
Letting the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation plays a significant role in elevating the dining experience.
Serving the caramelized pork over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice creates a comforting base that complements the dish’s flavors.
Accompanying the pork with pickled vegetables adds a tangy crunch, balancing the richness of the meat.
Garnishing with fresh cilantro and sliced chili not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a refreshing touch.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
With approximately 320 calories per serving, it offers a balanced meal with 25 grams of protein and 15 grams of fat.
Each serving is designed to satisfy four people, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Conclusion
Vietnamese lemongrass pork is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and appealing presentation.
From the marination process to the final plating, each step contributes to a meal that is both satisfying and visually stunning.
Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger feast, this dish is sure to impress and delight anyone at the table.
Easy Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork Recipe
This dish features tender pork marinated in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce, then cooked until caramelized. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork shoulder or pork loin, thinly sliced
- 2 stalks lemongrass, finely minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro and sliced chili for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice or baguette for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the Pork: Add the sliced pork to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Cook the Pork: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork in a single layer, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until caramelized and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the pork from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve over jasmine rice or in a baguette, garnished with fresh cilantro and sliced chili.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g