The moment you crack open a piece of lemongrass, the fresh, citrusy scent fills the air, transporting you straight to the vibrant streets of Vietnam. It’s a scent that lingers, promising something special on the dinner table. Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork is one of those dishes that captures all the excitement of authentic Vietnamese cuisine without all the fuss. With its tender marinated pork and bright, aromatic flavors, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend gathering.
Imagine juicy slices of pork sizzling on the grill, each bite layered with the rich complexity of garlic and shallots, complemented by the umami of fish sauce and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. Whether served over fragrant jasmine rice or tucked into a fresh banh mi sandwich, this dish is sure to impress and delight anyone craving something more satisfying than fast food. Join me as we dive into this easy-to-prepare recipe that can easily become a staple in your culinary repertoire. You won’t regret bringing this burst of flavor into your kitchen!
Why is Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork a must-try?
Bold flavors collide in this vibrant dish, making it irresistible.
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile options allow for substitutes like chicken, tofu, or shrimp, catering to diverse tastes.
Impressive presentation makes it an ideal choice for gatherings, leaving guests raving about their meal.
Aromatic ingredients ensure every bite is a fragrant delight that transports you straight to Vietnam!
For more culinary inspiration, be sure to check out our easy-to-make Vietnamese recipes.
Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Pork shoulder – 1 pound, thinly sliced, providing tender and flavorful meat after marination, essential for authentic Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork.
- Lemongrass – 2 stalks, finely chopped; use only the tender white part for that bright, citrus-like aroma.
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; enhances overall flavor with its savory goodness.
- Shallots – 2, minced; contributes mild sweetness and adds complexity to the dish.
- Fish sauce – 3 tablespoons; introduces robust umami flavor—soy sauce works as a vegetarian alternative.
- Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons; balances the marinade with its saltiness; opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice.
- Brown sugar – 1 tablespoon; provides a touch of sweetness and helps caramelize the pork when grilled.
- Black pepper – 1 teaspoon; adds a delightful subtle spice for extra depth.
- Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons; ideal for grilling, but you can substitute with sesame oil for more flavor.
How to Make Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork
-
Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix together the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined, creating a vibrant marinade. -
Marinate the Pork:
Slice the pork into thin pieces, ensuring maximum flavor absorption. Coat the pork thoroughly with the marinade, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—as long as overnight for the best flavor! -
Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, allowing it to reach the right temperature for a good sear. -
Grill the Pork:
Remove the pork from the marinade, discarding any excess. Grill the pork slices for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are thoroughly cooked and have beautiful grill marks. -
Rest and Serve:
After grilling, let the pork rest for a few minutes to retain moisture before slicing. Serve over jasmine rice, in a flavorful pho, or alongside a crisp salad.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs and sliced vegetables for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork
Fridge: Store leftover Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while preventing spoilage.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked pork in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Marinated Pork: If you have marinated uncooked pork, keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days before grilling for maximum freshness and flavor.
Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own by exploring these tasty alternatives and substitutions!
-
Chicken: Substitute sliced chicken breast or thighs for pork, using the same marinade for a lighter twist.
-
Tofu: Replace pork with firm tofu, marinated in the same mixture to absorb all those wonderful flavors, perfect for a vegetarian option.
-
Shrimp: Use marinated shrimp skewered and grilled quickly for a delicious seafood version that cooks in no time.
-
Beef: Swap pork for thinly sliced beef, stir-frying it with lemongrass for a richer and heartier flavor profile.
-
Spice it Up: Add sliced Thai chilies to the marinade for an extra kick, giving your meal that satisfying heat.
-
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro in the marinade for an aromatic twist, enhancing the overall flavor.
-
Vegetable Boost: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or zucchini while grilling the pork for a colorful, nutritious addition to your dish.
-
Citrus Zest: Grate some lime or lemon zest into the marinade for a zesty brightness that elevates your Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork to new levels!
What to Serve with Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork?
When your kitchen fills with the aromatic notes of lemongrass and grilled pork, it’s time to consider what will complement this vibrant dish beautifully.
-
Fragrant Jasmine Rice:
Serve this fluffy staple alongside to soak up the bold flavors of the pork, adding a satisfying textural contrast. -
Crisp Cucumber Salad:
A refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy dressing provides a cooling effect, perfectly balancing the savory richness of the pork. -
Pickled Vegetables:
Add some pickled carrots and daikon for a crunchy side that brings a delightful acidity, enhancing each bite. -
Vermicelli Noodles:
These light noodles contribute a soft and chewy element, great for wrapping with the pork and fresh herbs for a tasty bite. -
Vegetable Spring Rolls:
Serve with these fresh rolls for a delightful appetizer. Filled with crunchy veggies, they complement the savory pork wonderfully. -
Herbal Tea or Iced Coffee:
Pair your meal with a fragrant herbal tea or a chilled Vietnamese iced coffee, giving you that authentic dining experience.
Enjoy these pairings for a complete and memorable meal that celebrates the essence of Vietnamese cuisine!
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper, then refrigerate it. Ensure that you coat the pork slices well with the marinade before refrigerating them for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for even better flavor. This way, the meat soaks up all the aromatic goodness, making it just as delicious when cooked. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the marinated pork for 3-4 minutes per side, and you’ll enjoy a vibrant dish with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork
-
Marinate Longer: Let the pork marinate overnight for a deeper flavor infusion—this will make your Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork truly memorable.
-
Uniform Slices: Cut the pork into even slices to ensure consistent cooking. This way, each piece gets the right amount of marinade and cooks thoroughly.
-
Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is adequately heated before adding the pork. A medium-high heat sears the meat, sealing in the juices and creating a perfect char.
-
Resting Time: Allow the grilled pork to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.
-
Customization Options: Feel free to substitute with chicken, tofu, or shrimp! These variations retain the essence of the dish while catering to different dietary preferences.
Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best lemongrass?
Absolutely! When selecting lemongrass, look for stalks that are firm with no dark spots or blemishes. The best part to use is the tender white base—discard any tough outer layers as they are fibrous and not suitable for cooking.
How do I store leftover Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork?
You can store leftover Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to retain flavors and prevent spoilage.
Can I freeze Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork?
Very! To freeze, allow the cooked pork to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. It can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in your fridge for best results and warm it gently in a skillet or microwave.
What should I do if my pork is tough after grilling?
If your grilled pork turns out tough, it may be due to overcooking or not marinating long enough. To enhance tenderness, always marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes—overnight is even better. If you encounter tough pieces, slice them thinly against the grain for more tenderness.
Is Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork suitable for those with allergies?
I recommend caution! This recipe contains fish sauce and soy sauce, both of which may cause allergies in some individuals. For a vegetarian version, substitute with a plant-based fish sauce and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free if you have gluten sensitivities.
Can I use other proteins besides pork?
Absolutely! You can substitute the pork with chicken, tofu, or shrimp and still achieve delicious results. Simply use the same marinade; if using tofu, press it to remove excess moisture before marinating. Enjoy the exploration of flavors!
Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork: A Must-Try Flavor Explosion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix together the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Slice the pork into thin pieces. Coat the pork with the marinade, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the pork from the marinade and grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve over jasmine rice, in pho, or alongside a salad.