Nem Nướng (Vietnamese Grilled Pork Rolls)
Seasoned ground pork wrapped in rice paper and charred over high heat until crispy, served with fresh herbs and a tangy dipping sauce. An iconic Vietnamese street food with smoky depth.
- Total time
- 40 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 285
- Protein
- 18g
Ingredients
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Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Mince shallots, garlic, and lemongrass (white and pale green parts only) into fine pieces.
Step 2
Combine ground pork, shallots, garlic, lemongrass, fish sauce, and sugar in a bowl.
Step 3
Mix pork until just combined; do not overwork. Divide into 12 equal portions.
Step 4
Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Soften one rice paper at a time for ~10 seconds until pliable.
Step 5
Lay softened rice paper on a flat surface. Place one portion of pork mixture near the center.
Step 6
Roll tightly, tucking sides in as you go, to form a compact cylinder about 3 inches long.
Step 7
Repeat until all 12 rolls are formed. Chill rolls 15 minutes to firm them up.
Step 8
Heat grill or grill pan to high (450°F+). Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
Step 9
Grill rolls 2–3 minutes per side without moving them until edges blacken and char.
Step 10
Transfer cooked rolls to a warm plate. They should feel firm and smell deeply smoky.
Step 11
Whisk fish sauce, 0.25 cup water, and juice of 2 limes to make a dipping sauce.
Step 12
Serve rolls hot with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and the fish sauce dip on the side.
Tools you’ll need
- sharp knife
- cutting board
- large mixing bowl
- shallow dish (for softening rice paper)
- charcoal grill or grill pan (12-inch cast iron minimum)
- tongs
- small whisk
- serving plate
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