Dive into the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with the irresistible dish known as Bun Cha! This mouthwatering combination of grilled pork patties, fresh herbs, and delicate rice vermicelli noodles is not just a meal; it's an experience that transports your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Hanoi. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is deceptively simple yet sure to impress. Are you ready to uncover the secrets behind this iconic Vietnamese delight? Let's get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 400g ground pork
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 200g rice vermicelli noodles
- Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil)
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- Pickled carrots and daikon
- For dipping sauce: 3 tablespoons fish sauce, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 chili pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the meat patties by combining ground pork, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons fish sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the meat mixture into small round patties, approximately 2-3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Set aside on a plate.
- Prepare the dipping sauce by whisking together 3 tablespoons fish sauce, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and finely chopped chili pepper. Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the pork patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, ensuring they are cooked through and have nice char marks. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- While grilling, cook rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling in water for 3-4 minutes, then draining and rinsing with cold water.
- Prepare fresh herbs by washing and roughly chopping mint, cilantro, and basil. Slice cucumber into thin rounds.
- Arrange rice vermicelli noodles on serving plates. Top with grilled pork patties, fresh herbs, cucumber slices, and pickled carrots and daikon.
- Serve hot with the prepared dipping sauce on the side. Guests can pour sauce over their noodles or use it for dipping.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs make a world of difference in this dish. Opt for vibrant mint, cilantro, and basil for the best flavor.
- Marinate the Meat: For an extra punch of flavor, let the pork patties marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will enhance the taste and tenderness.
- Perfect the Dipping Sauce: Adjust the sweetness and heat of your dipping sauce according to your preference. If you love spice, add more chili!
- Grill with Care: Ensure your grill is preheated and oiled to avoid sticking. Keep an eye on the patties to achieve that perfect char without overcooking.
- Serve Fresh: Bun Cha is best enjoyed fresh. Prepare all components ahead of time, but assemble just before serving to maintain the noodles' texture and the herbs' freshness.
- Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add more vegetables like bean sprouts or other pickled veggies for added crunch and flavor.
- Enjoy with Friends: Bun Cha is a communal dish, so gather your friends and family around the table for a fun and interactive dining experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
