Vietnamese-style Grilled Pork Skewers

Ingredients

While the original Greek Souvlaki features marinated pork skewers served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce, this Vietnamese adaptation incorporates a unique blend of Vietnamese herbs and spices. The marinade is inspired by traditional Vietnamese flavors, and the skewers are served with a variety of fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a tangy dipping sauce. We alse have the original recipe for Souvlaki, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork shoulder, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 shallots, finely chopped 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 lemongrass stalks, white parts only, finely minced 2 lemongrass stalks, white parts only, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 280 kcal / 1170 KJ
• Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 6g (Sugar: 4g)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped shallots, minced lemongrass, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, vegetable oil, black pepper, five-spice powder, paprika, and sesame oil. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the thinly sliced pork shoulder to the marinade and toss until the pork is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated pork slices onto the soaked bamboo skewers.
5. 5.
   Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
7. 7.
   Serve the Vietnamese-style grilled pork skewers with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a side of Vietnamese dipping sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — To easily mince lemongrass, remove the tough outer layers and finely chop only the white parts. For a smoother texture, you can also blend the lemongrass with a little water before adding it to the marinade.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the bamboo skewers in water before grilling will prevent them from burning.
• For extra flavor, you can baste the skewers with the marinade while grilling.
• Serve the skewers with a side of steamed rice or vermicelli noodles for a complete meal.
• Customize your skewers by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or onions between the pork slices.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the skewers on a stovetop grill pan or in the oven under the broiler.

Serving advice

Serve the Vietnamese-style grilled pork skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and Thai basil. Accompany them with pickled carrots and daikon radish, sliced cucumbers, and a side of Vietnamese dipping sauce. For an authentic touch, serve the skewers with steamed rice or in a banh mi sandwich.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled pork skewers on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves to add color and freshness to the presentation. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the skewers for an extra touch of visual appeal. Serve the pickled vegetables and dipping sauce in small bowls alongside the skewers for a beautiful and inviting presentation.