Ingredients

500 g ground lean pork
3 spring onions , chopped
3 garlic cloves , chopped
1 stalk lemongrass , finely chopped
2 green bird 's eye chilies , finely chopped
1 tablespoon coriander leaves , chopped
1 egg white , lightly beaten
1 tablespoon cornflour
1 tablespoon chili oil
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chili oil
50 g onions , finely chopped
2 tablespoons brown sugar
50 ml chili sauce
4 tablespoons tomato ketchup
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons nam pla ( Thai fish sauce )
sweet and sour rice , to serve
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and these Vietnamese pork balls are no exception. The ground pork is combined with herbs and spices and shaped into small balls before being fried until crispy and golden brown. The hot and sour dipping sauce is made with chili sauce, tomato ketchup, and nam pla, a Thai fish sauce that adds a salty umami flavor to the sauce. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or as a main course, served with sweet and sour rice and a side of vegetables.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, spring onions, garlic, lemongrass, green bird's eye chilies, coriander leaves, egg white, and cornflour.
2.Mix until well combined.
3.Lightly oil your hands and shape the mixture into small balls.
4.Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5.Add the pork balls and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
6.Meanwhile, make the dipping sauce by heating the chili oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
7.Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
8.Add the brown sugar and cook for another minute until it has dissolved.
9.Add the chili sauce, tomato ketchup, rice wine vinegar, and nam pla.
10.Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
11.Serve the pork balls with the dipping sauce and sweet and sour rice.

PROS

These Vietnamese pork balls are flavorful and juicy, with a hot and sour dipping sauce that perfectly complements the flavors of the pork.

They are a great appetizer for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in.

CONS

These pork balls require some preparation time and can be a bit messy to make.

They are also high in calories and fat, so they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While not the healthiest food option, these Vietnamese pork balls do provide a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
Pork is a rich source of vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium, while the chili sauce and lemongrass in this recipe have been linked to reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system.

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