Dish

Cơm tấm sườn

Broken Rice with Grilled Pork Ribs

Cơm tấm sườn is a hearty and flavorful dish that is beloved by many in Vietnam. The marinated pork chops are tender and juicy, with a slightly sweet and savory flavor that is enhanced by the smoky flavor from the grill. The broken rice has a slightly chewy texture and is a perfect accompaniment to the pork chops. The pickled vegetables provide a tangy contrast to the richness of the dish, while the fried egg adds a creamy texture and a pop of color.

Asian cuisine› Southeast Asian cuisine› Vietnamese cuisine

Rice Dish

Origins and history

Cơm tấm sườn has its roots in southern Vietnam, where it was originally a street food sold by vendors on bicycles. Today, it is a popular dish throughout the country and is often served in restaurants and food stalls.

Dietary considerations

Cơm tấm sườn is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, as it contains pork chops and a fried egg. Additionally, the dish may not be suitable for those with certain dietary restrictions due to the use of soy sauce and fish sauce in the marinade.

Variations

There are many variations of cơm tấm sườn, with different regions of Vietnam adding their own unique twists to the dish. Some variations include using different cuts of pork, such as pork belly or pork shoulder, or adding a spicy chili sauce to the marinade.

Presentation and garnishing

Cơm tấm sườn is traditionally served on a large plate, with the broken rice forming a bed for the pork chops. The pickled vegetables are arranged around the edges of the plate, and the fried egg is placed on top of the pork chops. The dish is garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint.

Tips & Tricks

To make the perfect cơm tấm sườn, it is important to use high-quality pork chops and to marinate them for at least 2 hours before grilling. The broken rice should be cooked until tender but still slightly chewy, and the pickled vegetables should be tangy and slightly sweet. The dish should be served hot for maximum flavor.

Side-dishes

Pickled vegetables are a common side dish served with cơm tấm sườn, as they provide a tangy contrast to the richness of the pork chops. Other popular side dishes include steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

Drink pairings

Cơm tấm sườn is typically served with a cold glass of iced tea or a refreshing fruit juice, which helps to balance out the richness of the dish. However, it can also be paired with a light beer or a glass of white wine.