In addition to being a popular street food in Vietnam, Vietnamese pork loaf, also known as "cha lua," is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Made from a combination of ground pork, fish sauce, and a variety of spices, this dish has a unique taste and texture that makes it a favorite among Vietnamese cuisine lovers. In this article, we will take a closer look at the recipe for this delicious dish and how you can make it at home.
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Sliced Shallots, Lemongrass, Peanut Oil, Soy
Suon Nuong, or Vietnamese grilled pork chops, is a classic dish that perfectly combines the smoky flavors of the grill with the tangy and sweet Vietnamese marinade. It's a crowd-pleaser that is easy to make and always a hit at backyard barbecues. The key to getting the perfect Suon Nuong is to use a quality cut of pork and let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, for maximum flavor.
Vietnamese spring rolls, also known as gỏi cuốn, are a popular appetizer that is light, fresh, and bursting with flavor. These rice paper rolls are filled with a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, pork, herbs, and vegetables, and then dipped in a delicious peanut sauce. They are a great option for a healthy and refreshing summer snack or light meal.
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Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Main Ingredients: Cabbage, Pork, Large Onions, Garlic, Rice, Bread, Egg
Stuffed cabbage rolls, also known as bánh cuốn, are a traditional Vietnamese dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting family dinner. These rolls are made with a filling of ground pork, mushrooms, and spices, wrapped in steamed cabbage leaves, and then topped with a savory tomato sauce. It's a dish that will warm your soul and leave you feeling satisfied.
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Sweet and Sour Pork
Main Ingredients: Pork, Salt, Soy Sauce, All Purpose Flour, Egg Yolk
If you're in the mood for a tangy and sweet dish, look no further than Vietnamese sweet and sour pork. This dish combines tender pieces of pork with a flavorful sauce made from vinegar, sugar, and spices. It's a simple yet delicious recipe that can be served over rice or alongside some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
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The BEST Drunken Noodles
Main Ingredients: Pork, Fish Sauce, Garlic, White Pepper, Oyster Sauce
Drunken noodles, or pad kee mao, is a popular Thai dish that has been given a Vietnamese twist. This dish is made with wide rice noodles, chicken or pork, vegetables, and a spicy sauce that is sure to wake up your taste buds. It's a perfect option for a weeknight dinner when you're craving something flavorful and satisfying.
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Vietnamese Pork Bahn Mi Sandwiches
Main Ingredients: Pork, Carrots, Daikon, Cucumber, Jalapeno Peppers, Rice
Bánh mì sandwiches are a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and for good reason. These sandwiches are made with a crusty baguette, filled with marinated pork, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, and then topped with a spicy mayo sauce. They are a delicious and portable option for a quick lunch or picnic.
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Pancit Bihon
Main Ingredients: Rice Noodles, Pork, Chicken, Pea Pods, Carrot, Small
Pancit Bihon is a popular Filipino dish that has become a favorite in Vietnamese households. This dish is made with thin rice noodles, pork, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. It's a simple yet satisfying recipe that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for a busy weeknight meal.
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Classic Easy Meat Loaf
Main Ingredients: Meat Loaf Mix, Pork, Veal, Onion, Bacon, Garlic, Large
Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that is loved by many, and this Vietnamese-inspired version is no exception. This meatloaf is made with a blend of ground pork and beef, a variety of spices, and a savory glaze on top. It's a simple and hearty meal that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied.
Main Ingredients: Pork Blade Steaks, Light Brown Sugar, Chopped Garlic
If you've ever been to a Vietnamese restaurant, you've probably seen grilled lemongrass pork on the menu. This dish is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and it's easy to see why. The marinade is made with a blend of lemongrass, garlic, and soy sauce, giving the pork a tangy and savory flavor that is simply irresistible. Serve it with rice and some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Fresh spring rolls, or gỏi cuốn, are another popular Vietnamese dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. These rolls are made with rice paper wrappers filled with a variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, and shrimp or pork, and then served with a peanut dipping sauce. They are a great option for a summer lunch or appetizer.
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Easy Vietnamese Pork Bun Bowls
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Small Yellow Onion, Sugar, Fish Sauce
Vietnamese pork bun bowls, also known as bún thịt nướng, are a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight. This dish is made with marinated pork, rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and topped with a tangy and savory sauce. It's a great option for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Eggrolls, or chả giò, are a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and are a must-try for any food lover. These crispy and delicious rolls are filled with ground pork, vegetables, and spices, and then deep-fried to perfection. They are a great appetizer or snack and are best served with a side of sweet chili sauce.
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Pork Loin Steaks in Creamy Shallot and Mushrooms Sauce
Main Ingredients: Steaks, Olive Oil, Shallots, Mushrooms, Rosemary
This dish may sound fancy, but it's actually a simple and flavorful Vietnamese recipe that is perfect for a special occasion or a date night at home. Thinly sliced pork loin steaks are cooked in a creamy sauce made with shallots, mushrooms, and a touch of cream, giving it a rich and decadent flavor. Serve it with rice and some steamed vegetables for a delicious and elegant meal.
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Vietnamese Egg Meatloaf
Main Ingredients: Pork, Crab Meat, Wood Ear Mushroom, Shiitake Mushroom
Egg meatloaf, or chả trứng, is a unique and delicious dish that is popular in Vietnamese households. This meatloaf is made with a combination of ground pork and eggs, giving it a dense and creamy texture. It's a great option for a breakfast or brunch dish, served alongside some steamed rice and vegetables.
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Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork Chop
Main Ingredients: Pork, Canola Oil Spray, Fish Sauce, Soy Sauce, Sugar
Another delicious dish featuring lemongrass pork is Vietnamese lemongrass pork chops. These flavorful and juicy pork chops are marinated in a blend of lemongrass, garlic, and spices, and then grilled to perfection. Serve them with rice and a side of pickled vegetables for a complete meal.
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Chili Verde
Main Ingredients: Pork, Onion, Chicken Broth, Garlic Powder, Chicken
Chili verde, or thịt kho, is a popular Vietnamese dish that is bursting with flavor. This dish is made with pork shoulder, braised in a tangy and spicy sauce made from chili peppers, fish sauce, and coconut water. It's a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for a cold winter night.
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Vietnamese Crab Noodle Soup
Main Ingredients: Crab, Dried Shrimp, Shrimp, Pork, Egg, Tomato Paste
Crab noodle soup, or bún riêu, is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and is a must-try for seafood lovers. This soup is made with a flavorful broth, filled with crab meat, pork, tomatoes, and tofu, and served over vermicelli noodles. It's a light and refreshing soup that is perfect for a warm summer day.
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Charles Phan’s Vietnamese Meatball
Main Ingredients: Baking Powder, Water, Pork Belly, Pork, Fish Sauce
Meatballs are a beloved dish in many cultures, and Vietnamese cuisine is no exception. These meatballs are made with a blend of ground pork, shallots, and spices, and then simmered in a savory and tangy sauce. They are a great appetizer or can be served over rice for a satisfying meal.
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Bánh xèo (Vietnamese Crepes)
Main Ingredients: Rice Flour, Water, Coconut Milk, Salt, Turmeric
Bánh xèo, or Vietnamese crepes, are a popular street food in Vietnam and are a must-try for any food lover. These crispy and savory crepes are made with a batter of rice flour and coconut milk, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, and then served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce. They are a perfect option for a quick and delicious snack or meal.
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Bánh Mì – Vietnamese Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Marinade, Spicy Mayo, Vegetable Oil, Loaves, Pork, Pork
Last but not least, no list of Vietnamese dishes would be complete without bánh mì sandwiches. These sandwiches are made with a crispy baguette, filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, and then topped with a spicy mayo sauce. They are a delicious and portable option for a quick lunch or on-the-go meal.
Ingredients:
1. Ground Pork
The main ingredient in Vietnamese pork loaf is, of course, ground pork. It is recommended to use ground pork with a higher fat content, such as 70/30, to ensure a juicy and flavorful loaf. You can also use a combination of ground pork and ground pork belly for a richer taste.
2. Fish Sauce
Fish sauce is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and adds a distinct umami flavor to the pork loaf. Look for high-quality fish sauce, such as "nuoc mam nhi," which is made from anchovies and has a rich and complex taste.
3. Spices
The combination of spices used in Vietnamese pork loaf gives it its unique taste. Some of the common spices used include black pepper, garlic, and shallots. You can also add other spices like lemongrass, ginger, and chili for a more flavorful and spicy loaf.
Preparation:
1. Mixing the Ingredients
To make the pork loaf, combine the ground pork, fish sauce, and spices in a large bowl. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. This step is important as it helps to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the loaf.
2. Shaping the Loaf
Once the ingredients are well mixed, it's time to shape the loaf. Traditionally, Vietnamese pork loaf is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. However, if you don't have banana leaves, you can use aluminum foil or parchment paper. Shape the mixture into a log and wrap it tightly in the leaves or foil.
3. Steaming the Loaf
Place the wrapped loaf in a steamer and steam for about 2 hours. Make sure to check the water level periodically to prevent it from drying out. Once done, remove the loaf from the steamer and let it cool before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
1. Banh Mi
One of the most popular ways to enjoy Vietnamese pork loaf is by making a banh mi sandwich. Slice the loaf and add it to a baguette along with pickled vegetables, cilantro, and mayonnaise for a delicious and filling sandwich.
2. Cha Lua Cuon
Cha lua cuon, or pork loaf rolls, are another popular way to enjoy this dish. Thinly slice the loaf and wrap it in rice paper along with fresh herbs and vegetables. Serve with a dipping sauce for a light and healthy snack.
3. Com Tam
Com tam, or broken rice, is a Vietnamese dish that is often served with grilled meats. You can serve sliced pork loaf on a bed of broken rice along with a side of pickled vegetables and a fried egg for a hearty and delicious meal.
In conclusion, Vietnamese pork loaf is a versatile and tasty dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, it is sure to become a favorite in any household. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your homemade cha lua.
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