Vietnamese grilled pork, or thịt nướng, is a beloved national dish, renowned for its intensely flavorful marinade and satisfyingly charred exterior. This isn't your average barbecue; the magic lies in a complex blend of fragrant fish sauce, sweet brown sugar, garlic, and a hint of lemongrass, creating a unique taste that's both savory and subtly sweet. The perfectly balanced marinade tenderizes the pork, resulting in juicy, succulent bites that are irresistible. Whether enjoyed as a main course with rice and fresh vegetables, or incorporated into banh mi sandwiches, thịt nướng is a culinary adventure you won't want to miss.
The rich aroma alone is enough to transport you to the bustling streets of Vietnam. This recipe breaks down the process of creating this authentic dish, guiding you through each step from marinating to grilling to perfection. Ready to experience the deliciousness of Vietnamese grilled pork? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Grill
- Rice cooker
Ingredients
- Five-spice powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh garlic: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Chicken powder: 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Annato powder
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Soy sauce (low-sodium): 2 tablespoons
- Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Cooking oil: 1 tablespoon
- Honey or maple syrup: 3 tablespoons (optional)
- Oyster sauce: 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Barbecue sauce
- Lemongrass: 3 tablespoons
- Pork shoulder or Boston butt: 5 pounds
- Rice
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate the Pork
- Combine five-spice powder, garlic powder, black pepper, sugar, chicken powder (optional), and annatto powder in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix fish sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil (optional), cooking oil, honey or maple syrup, oyster sauce (optional), and barbecue sauce (optional).
- Add lemongrass to the wet ingredients.
- Cut the pork into grilling-sized pieces.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Add the pork and mix until well coated. Marinate for a couple of hours or longer (can be frozen).
Step 2. Prepare the Grill
- Preheat your grill to high heat, then reduce to medium.
Step 3. Grill the Pork
- Grill the pork for approximately 5 minutes per side, allowing the fat to drip and create smoke.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve the grilled pork with rice, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Spring Rolls (Nem Nướng): A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Five-spice powder can be purchased from an Asian market or online.
- Using a combination of honey/maple syrup and oil helps the marinade stick to the meat.
- Adding some fat to the meat helps create smoky flavor when grilling.
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the pork pieces.
- Freezing the marinated pork in portions makes for easy weekday meals.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1600
- Fat: 70g
- Carbs: 50g
- Protein: 200g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes! While pork shoulder or butt is traditional, you can also use pork loin or even pork chops. Adjust cooking time accordingly; thinner cuts will cook faster.
2. How do I know when the pork is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The pork should be cooked through and no longer pink inside.
With its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture, this Vietnamese grilled pork recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy the delicious results of your hard work, whether served with rice, noodles, or tucked into a fresh banh mi. Happy grilling!