Gio Thu, or Vietnamese cold sausage, is a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich, savory, and subtly sweet flavor profile. This traditional delicacy, often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions, boasts a wonderfully firm texture and a delightful aroma that promises a gastronomic adventure. Its unique character stems from a harmonious blend of carefully selected meats, aromatic spices, and a touch of magic only time and traditional methods can impart. More than just a sausage, Gio Thu represents a connection to Vietnamese culinary heritage, offering a taste of history and family tradition.
This recipe unveils the secrets to crafting authentic Gio Thu at home, guiding you through each step with precision and clarity. From selecting the finest ingredients to mastering the art of curing and steaming, we'll ensure you produce a cold sausage that rivals any you've tasted. Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let's delve into the detailed step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Chopsticks
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Pestle or spoon
- Scissors
- Rubber bands
Ingredients
- Soft lean pork meat (mouse meat): 600g
- Pork thigh meat
- Pig's ears: 2 pieces (upper part only)
- Pig's nose skin (bottom part with meat and crispy skin)
- Pig's skin: 200g
- Pig's hand
- Pig's nose
- Black fungus
- Garlic
- Shallots
- Pepper: 1 tablespoon
- Ginger: a small piece
- Salt
- Lemon
- Sugar: 1 spoon
- Seasoning powder: 1 spoon
- Fish sauce: 1 spoon
- Water or Coconut water: 1/2 cup
- Banana leaves: 2 pieces
- Plastic wrap
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate the Ingredients
- Wash and clean all the meat and skin. Soak and wash the black fungus. Mince the garlic and shallots.
- Remove the boiled skin and wash again. Cut the lean meat, removing the tough tooth membrane. Cut the lean meat and other ingredients into pieces.
- Mix all the prepared meat, skin, garlic, shallots, pepper, sugar, seasoning powder, and fish sauce in a large bowl. Marinate for about an hour.
Step 2. Boil and Prepare the Skin
- Boil water in a pot, add ginger and shallots, then pig’s skin, pig's ears, and pig's nose. Add salt and lemon juice for whiter and cleaner skin. Boil for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3. Cook the Sausage Filling
- Stir-fry the remaining half of the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the marinated meat mixture and stir-fry over low heat until fragrant and the meat firms up. Add water or coconut water and continue stir-frying for 10 more minutes. Add wood ear mushrooms and stir-fry for another 5 minutes.
Step 4. Wrap, Chill, and Serve
- Prepare banana leaves (or plastic bags). Place the sausage mixture onto the banana leaf, roll it up tightly, and secure it with plastic wrap or string.
- Refrigerate the wrapped sausage for a few hours. Slice and serve.
Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Pork: A Delicious BBQ Recipe
Tips
- Boiling the skin with lemon juice helps whiten and clean it.
- Cut the meat into thick pieces for nicer edges when sliced.
- Remove excess fat from pig’s skin to prevent the sausage from being too greasy.
- Stir-fry the sausage over low heat to prevent burning.
- Using coconut water instead of water adds extra flavor.
- Wrap the sausage tightly to ensure tenderness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 2500-3000
- Fat: 150-200g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 150-200g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute pork with other meats in the Gio Thu recipe?
While traditionally made with pork, you can experiment with a blend of pork and chicken or turkey for a leaner version. However, the flavor profile might differ slightly.
2. How long can I store homemade Gio Thu?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, your homemade Gio Thu should last for 3-5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2 months.
With a little patience and attention to detail, you've now mastered the art of making delicious Vietnamese Gio Thu. Enjoy this flavorful cold sausage as a delightful snack, an appetizer, or a key ingredient in your favorite dishes. The rewarding taste of homemade Gio Thu is a testament to your culinary skills and a delicious connection to Vietnamese culture.