Nem nướng

Nem nướng is a cherished Vietnamese dish, renowned particularly in Khánh Hòa Province. It features succulent grilled pork sausages or meatballs made from a savory blend of ground pork, pork fat, shallots, garlic, fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper. This delectable mixture is formed into sausages or meatballs and then grilled or baked to perfection.

Nem nướng can be enjoyed on its own as a delicious snack or appetizer, often accompanied by nước chấm (a fish sauce-based dip) or peanut sauce. Nước chấm is a tangy combination of fish sauce, water, sugar, lime juice, garlic, and chili peppers. Alternatively, the peanut sauce melds peanut butter, hoisin sauce, fish sauce, garlic, and crushed peanuts. Fresh vegetables such as lettuce, pickled carrots, radishes, mint, and basil are frequently served alongside, providing a refreshing crunch.

The versatility of nem nướng allows it to feature prominently in other Vietnamese dishes. For instance, it can be incorporated into rice noodles in Bún thịt nướng, or served over broken rice in Cơm tấm. It's also a favored filling for gỏi cuốn, the Vietnamese fresh spring rolls made with rice paper, meat or seafood, vegetables, and herbs.