Nem Bi Thinh, or crispy fried pork rolls, are a beloved Vietnamese street food known for their incredibly flavorful and satisfyingly crunchy texture. These aren't your average spring rolls; Nem Bi Thinh boasts a unique preparation, utilizing a blend of finely ground pork, vermicelli noodles, wood ear mushrooms, and a secret blend of aromatic spices that create a truly unforgettable taste. The distinct crispy exterior, achieved through a careful frying process, provides a delightful contrast to the juicy and flavorful interior. This recipe unlocks the secrets to achieving perfectly crispy, flavorful Nem Bi Thinh.
These delightful little rolls are surprisingly easy to make at home, and the rewarding results are well worth the effort. From the initial preparation of the flavorful pork mixture to the golden-brown perfection achieved in the hot oil, every step is carefully explained to ensure your success. Ready to embark on a culinary journey and create your own batch of irresistible Nem Bi Thinh? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Pot
- Frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Plastic wrap or food-safe bag
Ingredients
- Lean pork: 600g
- Pork skin: 400g
- Minced garlic: 1 tablespoon
- Minced shallots: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Seasoning powder: 1/2 tablespoon
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed shallots: a few
- Ginger: 1 branch
- Vinegar: optional
- Water or coconut water: 1/2 cup
- Garlic powder or fried garlic: 1 teaspoon
- Ground pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Peppercorns: 1 tablespoon
- Rice bran: 2 tablespoons
- Green chili or red chili: to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork and Skin
- Cut the lean pork into thin, 1-2 inch pieces for easy marinating and faster cooking.
- Marinate the pork with minced garlic, shallots, sugar, seasoning powder, and fish sauce. Mix well and let it absorb for at least 30 minutes.
- Boil the pork skin in water with salt, crushed shallots, and ginger until soft (about 15-20 minutes).
- Immediately transfer the boiled skin to iced water to cool and firm it.
- Pan-fry the marinated pork until cooked through on both sides. Add water or coconut water, and simmer until the liquid is absorbed.
- Cut the cooled pork skin into thin strips, removing any excess fat.
- Cut the cooked pork into small strips, similar in size to the skin.
Step 2. Cook and Season the Pork Mixture
- In a pan, stir-fry the pork skin with garlic powder (or fried garlic), seasoning powder, and fish sauce until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pork to the pan and mix well. Stir-fry over medium heat, then reduce to low heat, until the skin becomes sticky and slightly resinous (about 5-7 minutes).
- Before turning off the heat, add ground pepper and peppercorns, and mix well.
- Add rice bran, mix thoroughly, and let cool slightly.
Step 3. Assemble and Chill the Nem Bi Thinh
- Mix the pork and skin mixture. Add chili and/or garlic if desired. Divide into portions, squeeze tightly to form a roll, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or a food-safe bag.
Step 4. Refrigerate for Optimal Flavor
- Refrigerate for at least 4-5 hours for optimal flavor and texture.
Read more: Crispy Vietnamese Fried Spring Rolls: A Foolproof Recipe
Tips
- Using coconut water instead of regular water enhances the flavor.
- Roasting the rice bran yourself enhances the aroma.
- Don't let the mixture cool completely before wrapping; it should be slightly warm for best results.
- If refrigerating for a longer time, take it out 30 minutes before serving to prevent it from being too hard.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pork with another type of meat?
While pork is traditional, you can experiment with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner version. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
2. How do I ensure my Nem Bi Thinh are crispy?
Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F/175°C). Don't overcrowd the pan, and fry in batches for even cooking and crispiness.
3. What can I serve with my Nem Bi Thinh?
They're fantastic with a dipping sauce like nước chấm (Vietnamese fish sauce dipping sauce) or a sweet chili sauce. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint also complement them well.
With a little patience and these simple steps, you've now mastered the art of making delicious Vietnamese Nem Bi Thinh. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and burst of flavor with your family and friends. These crispy pork rolls are sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.