Com tam thit nuong is one of the most popular Vietnamese dishes that everyone loves. com tam thit nuong is made with broken rice and grilled pork, giving a tasty mix of flavors that is both simple and amazing. If you have never tried com tam thit nuong before, you are in for a real treat. The rice is soft and slightly sweet, while the pork is juicy and smoky from the grill. Many restaurants and street vendors in Vietnam serve com tam thit nuong, and it is often enjoyed with pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of fish sauce. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and is loved by kids and adults alike. Learning how to make com tam thit nuong at home is easy, and it can bring the taste of Vietnam right to your kitchen.
Making com tam thit nuong at home is not only fun but also a great way to enjoy a healthy and balanced meal. You can cook the rice while marinating the pork in a sweet and savory sauce, then grill it until perfectly tender. Adding fresh vegetables like cucumber, lettuce, and pickled carrots gives a fresh crunch that balances the rich flavors of the pork. Many people also serve com tam thit nuong with a fried egg on top for extra flavor and texture. The dish is not complicated, but each step matters to get the authentic taste. With a little practice, anyone can master com tam thit nuong and impress friends and family. It is a dish that shows how simple ingredients can create a big taste, making it a favorite for everyone who tries it.
What is com tam thit nuong
com tam thit nuong is a traditional Vietnamese dish made from broken rice and grilled pork. Broken rice, called “com tam,” is rice that has fractured grains, often considered less valuable but prized for its soft texture when cooked. The grilled pork, or “thit nuong,” is marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, garlic, sugar, and spices, then cooked until tender and flavorful. This dish is usually served with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a small bowl of fish sauce for dipping. com tam thit nuong is popular in southern Vietnam but loved by people across the country. Its combination of simple ingredients with bold flavors makes it a dish that is easy to enjoy at any time.
Ingredients Needed for com tam thit nuong
To make authentic com tam thit nuong at home, you need a few basic ingredients:
- Broken rice (com tam) – soft and slightly sweet.
- Pork (thit nuong) – often pork chops or pork shoulder.
- Garlic – finely chopped.
- Sugar – to add sweetness to the marinade.
- Fish sauce – gives the savory umami taste.
- Pepper – freshly ground for aroma.
- Vegetables – cucumber, lettuce, and pickled carrots.
- Eggs – optional, for frying and serving on top.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make com tam thit nuong at Home
- Prepare the rice – Wash the broken rice and cook it until soft and fluffy.
- Marinate the pork – Mix garlic, sugar, fish sauce, and pepper. Coat the pork and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the pork – You can grill on a pan or outdoor grill. Cook until the pork is tender and slightly caramelized.
- Prepare vegetables – Slice cucumbers, lettuce, and carrots. Make quick pickled carrots by soaking in vinegar and sugar.
- Assemble the dish – Serve rice on a plate, place grilled pork on top, add vegetables, and drizzle with fish sauce. Optional: add a fried egg.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Pork in com tam thit nuong
- Marinate long enough – Let the pork sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
- Use medium heat – Grill slowly so the pork doesn’t burn and stays juicy.
- Caramelize gently – Sugar in the marinade can burn easily; watch carefully for golden brown color.
- Cut pork thinly – Thin slices cook faster and absorb more flavor from the marinade.
How to Serve com tam thit nuong Like a Vietnamese Restaurant
- Use a shallow plate for rice.
- Place pork slices neatly on top of rice.
- Add fresh herbs and vegetables around the plate.
- Drizzle fish sauce lightly for extra flavor.
- Serve with chili sauce or pickled vegetables for an authentic touch.
Health Benefits of com tam thit nuong
com tam thit nuong is not only tasty but also provides a balanced meal:
- Rice – A source of energy from carbohydrates.
- Pork – Protein for muscle growth and repair.
- Vegetables – Vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Moderate fats – Grilling uses less oil than frying, keeping the dish healthier.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making com tam thit nuong
- Overcooking the pork – It will become dry.
- Not marinating long enough – Pork will lack flavor.
- Overcooking the rice – Rice should be fluffy, not sticky or mushy.
- Skipping vegetables – They balance flavors and add freshness.
Variations of com tam thit nuong to Try
- With fried egg – Adds richness to the dish.
- With grilled shrimp or chicken – For different protein options.
- Spicy version – Add chili to the marinade for heat.
- Vegetarian twist – Use grilled tofu instead of pork.
Conclusion
com tam thit nuong is more than just a meal; it is a delicious experience of Vietnamese flavors. From the soft broken rice to the juicy grilled pork and fresh vegetables, every bite is satisfying and comforting. Whether you eat it at a street vendor in Vietnam or cook it at home, com tam thit nuong is a dish that brings joy to any table. By following the tips and steps above, you can make a perfect com tam thit nuong that tastes like it came from a Vietnamese restaurant.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use regular rice instead of broken rice?
A: Yes, regular rice works, but broken rice gives the traditional soft texture that makes com tam thit nuong special.
Q2: How long should I marinate the pork?
A: At least 30 minutes is good, but 1–2 hours gives more flavor.
Q3: Can I bake the pork instead of grilling?
A: Yes, bake at 180°C (350°F) until golden brown, about 15–20 minutes.
