Da Lat, Vietnam, is renowned for its cool climate and stunning scenery, but did you know it's also a haven for delicious street food? Among the culinary treasures you'll find are the incredibly flavorful Da Lat meatballs. These aren't your average meatballs; the unique blend of spices and the perfectly tender texture make them a true delight. Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy meatball, bursting with aromatic herbs and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory richness. This recipe captures the authentic taste of these beloved treats, bringing a taste of Vietnam to your kitchen.
The secret to these Da Lat meatballs lies in the careful selection of ingredients and a precise cooking technique. We’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the flavorful meat mixture to achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Ready to embark on this culinary journey and create your own batch of authentic Da Lat meatballs? Let's get started with the step-by-step recipe below!
Tools Needed
- Air fryer
- Pot
- Stove
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Ground meat: 2kg (1.5kg lean meat, 500g fat)
- Pork skin: 500g
- Fat: 400g
- Minced onions: 100g
- Carrots
- Onions
- Quail eggs
- Old bread: 150g
- Onion and coriander
- Seasoning: 1.5 tablespoons
- Sugar: 1.5 tablespoons
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
- MSG: 1/3 tablespoon
- Pepper
- Fried garlic: 1 tablespoon
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- Rock sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Seasoning powder: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Annatto oil
- Shredded carrots
- Shredded papaya
- Herbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Meatballs
- Grind the meat (lean and fat) until smooth.
- minced onions, carrots, onions, quail eggs, old bread (air-fried until crispy then crumbled), onion and coriander.
- Marinate the ground meat with seasoning, sugar, fish sauce, oyster sauce, MSG, pepper, crumbled bread, minced shallots, fried garlic, and cornstarch.
- Shape the meat mixture into meatballs, optionally incorporating quail eggs into some.
Step 2. Prepare the Broth and Pork Skin
- Boil the pork skin with salt, vinegar, onions, and seasoning until tender (15-25 minutes).
- Remove the fat from the cooked pork skin and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Render the pork fat until crispy. Remove crispy pork fat and set aside.
- Sauté garlic, onion, and non-spicy chili peppers until fragrant.
- Boil water in a pot and add meatballs, pork skin and sauteed vegetables.
- Season the broth with rock sugar, seasoning powder, salt, soy sauce, and annatto oil (optional).
- Simmer until meatballs are cooked through. Remove foam as needed.
Step 3. Prepare the Dipping Sauce
- combine crispy pork fat with chili powder.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot with shredded carrots, shredded papaya, herbs, and the crispy pork fat dipping sauce.
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Use old bread for a softer texture in the meatballs.
- Cornstarch helps bind the meatballs and keeps them moist.
- Adjust the seasoning in the broth to your preference.
- The broth for Da Lat meatballs is thinner than for other types of meatballs.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 6000-7000
- Fat: 450-550g
- Carbs: 150-200g
- Protein: 400-500g
FAQs
1. Can I use ground beef instead of pork for these Da Lat meatballs?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef, or even a mix of pork and beef, for a different flavor profile. Adjust the seasoning slightly to your preference.
2. How do I keep the meatballs from becoming tough?
The key is to avoid overmixing the meat and to cook them gently. Don't overcook the meatballs – remove them from the heat when they're cooked through but still juicy.
3. What can I serve with Da Lat meatballs?
They're delicious served with rice noodles, fresh herbs (like cilantro and mint), and a dipping sauce of your choice (fish sauce, hoisin, or a peanut sauce work well).
With this recipe, you've unlocked the secret to creating authentic, delectable Da Lat meatballs right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the satisfying flavors and tender texture of these Vietnamese culinary gems. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skill!