Bun Cha is a traditional Vietnamese dish that features grilled pork, fresh herbs, and rice noodles served with a tangy dipping sauce. This delightful and refreshing dish is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Follow this recipe to create an authentic Bun Cha at home.
Ingredients:
For the Pork:
- 1 lb (450g) pork shoulder or pork belly, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Nuoc Cham Sauce:
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 Thai bird chilies, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Noodles and Garnishes:
- 8 oz (225g) rice vermicelli noodles
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Fresh mint leaves
- Fresh cilantro
- Fresh basil
- Sliced cucumber
- Pickled carrots and daikon radish (optional)
- Chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork:
- Marinate the Pork:
- In a bowl, combine the sliced pork with sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Preparing the Nuoc Cham Sauce:
- Make the Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine the fish sauce, fresh lime juice, sugar, water, minced garlic, and sliced Thai bird chilies (if using). Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
Preparing the Noodles and Garnishes:
- Cook the Noodles:
- Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare the Fresh Garnishes:
- Wash and prepare the lettuce, mint leaves, cilantro, basil, and cucumber. Set aside.
Cooking the Pork:
- Grill the Pork:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated pork slices until they are cooked through and slightly charred, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Assembling the Bun Cha:
- Arrange the Bowl:
- In serving bowls, arrange a portion of the rice vermicelli noodles. Top with grilled pork slices.
- Add Fresh Garnishes:
- Add fresh lettuce, mint leaves, cilantro, basil, sliced cucumber, and pickled carrots and daikon radish (if using).
- Drizzle with Sauce:
- Drizzle the Nuoc Cham sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Optional Topping:
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the top for added texture and flavor.
Bun Cha is a vibrant and flavorful Vietnamese dish that combines grilled pork with fresh herbs and rice noodles, all brought together with a tangy dipping sauce. Perfect for a refreshing and satisfying meal, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the authentic taste of Vietnam with this delicious recipe. Chúc ngon miệng!