There’s a vibrant world of flavors in every bite of this Vietnamese noodle bowl with grilled pork, and the first taste is a delightful revelation. Picture the sizzle of marinated pork searing on the grill, releasing a mouthwatering aroma that draws everyone into the kitchen. The sweet and savory notes of fish sauce and brown sugar meld perfectly, creating a marinade that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
After a long week of takeaway, my craving for something fresh and homemade led to this inspired dish. It’s the kind of recipe that brings family and friends together, overflowing with color and crunch from crisp veggies, tender pork, and fragrant herbs. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for a casual dinner or an impressive gathering. Discover how this delightful bowl can become a staple in your culinary repertoire, promising satisfaction that often eludes fast food. Let’s dive into making this sensational grilled pork with vermicelli dish!
Why is Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Grilled Pork so special?
Bursting with Flavor: Each bite of this noodle bowl delivers a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that will dance on your palate.
Fresh Ingredients: Crisp veggies like cucumber and carrots add a refreshing crunch, making this dish a vibrant feast for your senses.
Easy to Customize: Whether you’re a spice lover or prefer a milder flavor, you can easily adjust the heat with red pepper flakes and lime juice.
Quick Prep Time: With just an hour of marinating, you’ll have a meal that feels gourmet without the lengthy commitment.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests with a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s sure to spark conversations and make everyone ask for seconds!
Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Grilled Pork Ingredients
For the Pork Marinade
- Pork shoulder – 2 lbs – A succulent cut that becomes tender and flavorful after grilling.
- Brown sugar – 1/2 cup – Adds a caramelized sweetness that complements the savory elements.
- Fish sauce – 2 tbsp – Gives that authentic umami flavor, quintessential for Vietnamese dishes.
- Soy sauce – 1/2 tbsp – Enhances the salty notes and depth of the marinade.
- Garlic – 3-4 cloves – Infuses the pork with a fragrant aroma and rich flavor.
- Shallots – 1 tbsp – Adds an onion-like sweetness that balances the dish beautifully.
- Lemongrass – ~2 inch bottom white part – Imparts a citrusy fragrance that brightens up the marinade.
- Vegetable oil – 3 tbsp – Helps to keep the pork moist during grilling.
For the Noodle Bowl
- Dried rice vermicelli noodles – 7-8 oz – The perfect base; they soak up all flavors beautifully.
- Cucumber – 1 1/2 cups shredded – Offers a crisp texture that refreshes the palate.
- Carrots – 1 1/2 cups shredded – Adds a sweet crunch, elevating the dish’s texture.
For the Pickling Mixture
- Rice vinegar – 1/2 cup – Provides tanginess while balancing the sweetness of the dish.
- Hot water – 1/2 cup – Dissolves the sugar for the pickling process.
- Sugar – 1/4 cup – Sweetens the pickling brine and complements the veggies.
For the Garnishes
- Lettuce leaves – A few – Adds a refreshing crunch and makes for a beautiful presentation.
- Cilantro – A handful – Gives a burst of freshness that elevates the entire bowl.
- Mint leaves – A handful – Adds a nice herby contrast to the flavors.
- Peanuts – 1/2 cup chopped – Offers a delightful crunch and nutty notes.
- Fresh lime – 1 – Squeezed for that zesty finish to brighten every bite.
For the Sauce
- Hot water – 1/2 cup – Helps in blending the sauce ingredients together.
- Sugar – 3 tbsp – Adds sweetness to balance the tartness from the lime.
- Fish sauce – 2 tbsp – An essential ingredient that enhances the depth of the sauce.
- Freshly squeezed lime juice – 2-3 tbsp or to taste – Provides a refreshing acidity that ties all flavors together.
- Red pepper flakes – 1/4 tsp or to taste – Adds the perfect kick if you like a bit of heat.
Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure as we put these ingredients together to create your beautiful Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Grilled Pork!
How to Make Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Grilled Pork
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Slice the pork shoulder, trimming excess fat, and cut it into thin slices. Place the slices in a large ziplock bag for easy marinating.
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Blend all the marinade ingredients—brown sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, shallots, lemongrass, and vegetable oil—in a food processor. Pour this delightful mixture over the pork, ensuring even coating. Marinate for at least 1 hour or up to a few hours to maximize flavor.
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Grill the marinated pork on a grill pan or outdoor grill over indirect heat or medium/low heat until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F.
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Dissolve sugar in hot water in a bowl until fully dissolved, then stir in the rice vinegar.
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Submerge shredded cucumber and carrots into the vinegar mixture. Allow them to pickle for 30-60 minutes, then drain to remove excess liquid.
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Prep your garnishes by washing the lettuce leaves, cilantro, and mint leaves. Chop the peanuts and slice the lime into wedges for serving.
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Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Rinse them under cold water afterwards, which helps prevent sticking.
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Whisk together hot water with sugar in a bowl until dissolved. Next, add fish sauce, lime juice, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to allow all flavors to meld.
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Combine the cooked noodles, grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and garnishes in a large bowl. Serve with the prepared sauce and enjoy this vibrant dish together with family and friends!
Optional: Drizzle with additional lime juice for an extra burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Noodle Bowls with Grilled Pork are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the pork shoulder up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply blend the marinade ingredients, coat the pork, and store it in a ziplock bag in the refrigerator. The pickled vegetables can also be prepared ahead of time, soaking in the vinegar mixture up to 3 days before serving. Just ensure you drain them well to keep things fresh. When it’s time to serve, grill the marinated pork and toss everything together with cooked noodles and garnishes, creating a delectable meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Grilled Pork
Fridge: Keep leftover Vietnamese noodle bowl in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store the noodles and grilled pork separately from the pickled vegetables for optimal freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze grilled pork for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and transfer it to a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw pork overnight in the fridge and then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid overheating the noodle bowl to preserve the texture.
Serving Cold: This noodle bowl can also be enjoyed cold. Simply chill in the fridge and serve with dressing drizzled on top for a refreshing twist!
What to Serve with Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Grilled Pork?
Elevate your meal experience with these delicious pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of your noodle bowl.
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Spicy Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies and shrimp add an exciting crunch, enhancing the overall experience. Dipping them in a tangy sauce will keep your taste buds engaged.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber and herb salad offers a refreshing palate cleanser. The coolness complements the warm grilled pork, balancing out the meal beautifully.
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Garlic Fried Rice: The fragrant garlic aroma and fluffy texture of fried rice make for a hearty side. Each bite pairs wonderfully with the grilled flavors and sauces of the noodle bowl.
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Herbed Quinoa: A light and nutritious choice, quinoa tossed with fresh herbs can soak up the delicious sauce. This option adds an extra layer of healthiness and texture to your meal.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet Thai treat offers a perfect end to the meal. The creaminess of coconut milk and bursts of juicy mango create a delightful contrast to the savory pork.
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Iced Thai Tea: Sip on this refreshing drink, balancing the flavors with its creamy sweetness. It cools down the palate while pairing excellently with the spice in the gravy.
Each of these side options creates a harmonious meal that celebrates the tantalizing essence of the Vietnamese noodle bowl with grilled pork!
Expert Tips for Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Grilled Pork
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Marinate Longer: Allow the pork to marinate for several hours to maximize flavor absorption; overnight is ideal for the best results.
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Check the Heat: Grill on medium/low heat to avoid charring the pork; this ensures a juicy, tender texture while cooking.
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Prevent Stickiness: Rinse the cooked vermicelli noodles in cold water right after cooking to prevent them from sticking together, enhancing your bowl’s presentation and texture.
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Tweak the Pickles: Adjust the sugar in your pickling mixture based on your vegetable’s natural sweetness; a balance of flavors is key in this Vietnamese noodle bowl with grilled pork.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro and mint add vibrancy; don’t skip these garnishes as they elevate the dish’s flavor and aroma significantly.
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Customize the Sauce: Play around with the lime juice and red pepper flakes in the sauce; ensure it suits your taste, creating the perfect finishing touch to your bowl!
Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Grilled Pork Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Pork Alternatives: Swap pork shoulder for chicken thighs or tofu for a lighter option, while still keeping the marinade full of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for those who love a spicy twist, igniting the taste buds with every bite.
- Veggie-Packed: Incorporate diced bell peppers, radishes, or snap peas for added crunch and color, making this bowl even more nutritious and vibrant!
- Noodle Swap: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free noodles to cater to dietary preferences while maintaining that beloved vermicelli texture.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh Thai basil or scallions in place of mint and cilantro, introducing new layers of flavor and aromatics that will delight your palate.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle honey or maple syrup instead of sugar in the pickling mixture for a unique sweet touch, balancing the tanginess of the vinegar beautifully.
- Crispy Topping: Sprinkle fried shallots or crispy garlic chips on top for an extra crunchy layer, elevating the overall texture and flavor profile.
- Chilled Option: Serve the bowl cold during hot months for a refreshing meal; it transforms it into a vibrant summer dish everyone will love.
Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Grilled Pork Recipe FAQs
How can I select the best pork shoulder for this recipe?
Look for pork shoulder that has a good amount of marbling, which adds flavor and juiciness. The meat should be bright pink to reddish in color with minimal dark spots. If you find large ones, just avoid them; they can indicate the meat is turning.
What’s the best way to store leftover Vietnamese noodle bowl?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For ideal freshness, keep the noodles and grilled pork separate from the pickled vegetables to maintain their crunch and texture.
Can I freeze the grilled pork?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the grilled pork to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. Place it in a freezer-safe bag to extend its life. The pork can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop.
What should I do if my noodles are sticking together after cooking?
If your vermicelli noodles are sticking, rinse them under cold water immediately after cooking. This step cools them down quickly and helps separate them. If it happens anyway, you can add a drizzle of vegetable oil to loosen them up.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This recipe contains fish sauce, which can be a concern for those with seafood allergies. Additionally, the dish includes nuts (peanuts). Always check with your guests about any allergies before serving, and consider offering a substitute sauce made with soy sauce to avoid allergens.
How do I adjust the spice levels in the sauce?
To customize the heat to your liking, start with the lower amount of red pepper flakes. You can always add more to taste. A great tip is to taste the sauce as you go—this way, you ensure it’s perfect! For a milder version, omit the red pepper flakes altogether or substitute with sweet chili sauce for a sweet-spicy kick.
Delicious Vietnamese Noodle Bowl with Grilled Pork Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the pork shoulder, trimming excess fat, and cut it into thin slices. Place the slices in a large ziplock bag for easy marinating.
- Blend all the marinade ingredients—brown sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, shallots, lemongrass, and vegetable oil—in a food processor. Pour this delightful mixture over the pork, ensuring even coating. Marinate for at least 1 hour or up to a few hours to maximize flavor.
- Grill the marinated pork on a grill pan or outdoor grill over indirect heat or medium/low heat until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F.
- Dissolve sugar in hot water in a bowl until fully dissolved, then stir in the rice vinegar.
- Submerge shredded cucumber and carrots into the vinegar mixture. Allow them to pickle for 30-60 minutes, then drain to remove excess liquid.
- Prep your garnishes by washing the lettuce leaves, cilantro, and mint leaves. Chop the peanuts and slice the lime into wedges for serving.
- Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Rinse them under cold water afterwards, which helps prevent sticking.
- Whisk together hot water with sugar in a bowl until dissolved. Next, add fish sauce, lime juice, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to allow all flavors to meld.
- Combine the cooked noodles, grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and garnishes in a large bowl. Serve with the prepared sauce and enjoy this vibrant dish together with family and friends!