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Savory Bun Cha

Savory Bun Cha: A Vietnamese Delight You’ll Love

Discover the vibrant flavors of Savory Bun Cha, a nourishing Vietnamese dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound pork mince Substitute with chicken or turkey if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce Key seasoning for authentic taste.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar Balances flavors by adding sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced for aromatic depth.
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper Enhances seasoning and heat.
  • 1 teaspoon lemongrass paste Optional for traditional flavor.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons oil Used for frying the meatballs.
For the Nuoc Cham Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar Provides acidity to balance the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice Adds brightness and freshness.
  • 3 tablespoons water Dilutes the sauce.
For Serving
  • 4 ounces vermicelli noodles Must be soaked properly before serving.
  • fresh vegetables Includes cabbage, cucumber, and herbs.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Nuoc Cham Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons fish sauce, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar, and 2 tablespoons lime juice until the sugar dissolves. Add 1 minced garlic clove and optional sliced chili. Mix in 3 tablespoons water and let sit for 10 minutes.
  2. Soak the Vermicelli Noodles: Bring a pot of water to boil. Once boiling, add 4 ounces of vermicelli noodles and soak for 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Make the Meatballs: Combine 1 pound of pork mince, 2 tablespoons fish sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon chopped green onions, 1 teaspoon white pepper, and optional 1 teaspoon lemongrass paste in a bowl. Mix thoroughly and shape into mini patties (about 12 pieces).
  4. Cook the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of oil. Cook meatballs for 2 to 2.5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate.
  5. Assemble Your Savory Bun Cha: Place soaked vermicelli noodles in bowls, top with meatballs and fresh vegetables, and drizzle with the Nuoc Cham sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Use quality pork mince for juicy meatballs. Fresh herbs enhance flavor.

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