How to make Bún Chả (Vietnamese meatballs & Vermicelli)

pork belly

🥗Healthier: chicken thigh

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken thigh is lower in fat, while pork shoulder is less expensive.

fish sauce

🥗Healthier: soy sauce

💰Cheaper: salted water

Soy sauce is a plant-based alternative, while salted water is a basic substitute.

Cook the vermicelli according to package instructions and set aside.

Prepare the meatballs by mixing ground pork, minced shallot, garlic, lemongrass, chopped scallions, fish sauce, sugar, chicken bouillon, cooking oil, oyster sauce, and cracked black pepper in a bowl.

Form the mixture into 12 meatballs, approximately 40 grams each.

Grill the meatballs until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally.

Prepare the dipping sauce by combining fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, water, minced garlic, and sliced chilies in a bowl.

Optionally, prepare pickled carrots by mixing warm water, sugar, vinegar, and salt, then adding sliced carrots to the brine.

Serve the grilled meatballs with vermicelli, garnished with lettuce, mint leaves, and the dipping sauce on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: