There’s a unique thrill that comes with grilling, especially when you can transform simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. Recently, as I searched through my pantry for inspiration, I stumbled upon an enticing recipe: Vietnamese Pork Chops, or Sườn Nướng. The rich, fragrant aroma of lemongrass and garlic mingled with sweetness from brown sugar instantly transported me to bustling Vietnamese street markets.
This dish is everything you crave for an easy weeknight meal—savory, satisfying, and oh-so-flavorful. With a delicious homemade marinade that tenderizes the pork, it’s hard to believe it takes less than 30 minutes on the grill. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, these pork chops promise to impress without overwhelming your schedule. Join me as we dive into this recipe that will not only excite your taste buds but also satisfy your soul with the warm flavors of home-cooked happiness!
Why are Vietnamese Pork Chops so special?
Bold flavors: This recipe combines savory, sweet, and umami notes from the marinade, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
Quick preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can have these delicious chops grilling in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile options: Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients or substitute the pork with chicken for a different twist!
Mouthwatering aroma: As they cook, the irresistible scents of lemongrass and garlic will fill your kitchen, tantalizing everyone around.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve these alongside steamed rice and pickled veggies for a dinner that will impress family and friends.
Vietnamese Pork Chops Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Pork Loin Chops – About 6 oz each; use any cut of pork for varied flavor profiles.
• Lemongrass – Finely minced for a fragrant flavor; lime zest can be a great substitute if lemongrass is hard to find.
• Shallot – Finely chopped to add sweetness; red onion works well if you’re out of shallots.
• Minced Garlic – Fresh garlic is ideal for building depth of flavor in your marinade.
• Brown Sugar – Essential for sweetness and caramelization; feel free to swap with honey or coconut sugar.
• Vietnamese Fish Sauce – Adds umami flavor; for a vegetarian option, you can substitute it with soy sauce.
• Regular Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness and additional depth; opt for low-sodium soy sauce if desired.
• Rice Wine Vinegar – Balances flavors with its acidity; apple cider vinegar is a tasty alternative.
• Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds heat and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Oil – Used for marinating and cooking; sesame oil can elevate the flavor even more.
Note: This Vietnamese Pork Chops recipe provides a beautifully balanced taste that’s perfect for grilling!
How to Make Vietnamese Pork Chops
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Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, shallots, garlic, brown sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and black pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant marinade.
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Prepare Pork Chops: Rinse your pork loin chops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make small slits in the fat to help them cook evenly and enhance flavor.
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Marinate Meat: Place the pork chops into a large Ziploc bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chops and massage them gently to ensure they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 12 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
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Heat Grill: Preheat your grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Allow the marinated pork chops to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
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Cook Pork Chops: Grill the pork chops for approximately 4 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 140°F-145°F. A meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness!
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and cover them loosely with foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes to seal in the juices before slicing and serving.
Optional: Serve with steamed broken rice and pickled vegetables for an authentic experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Pork Chops (Sườn Nướng) are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can marinate the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while saving you valuable time on busy weeknights. Simply follow the marinade preparation and let the pork soak in the delicious mix overnight in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, be sure to store the marinated chops in a well-sealed Ziploc bag. When it’s time to cook, allow the pork to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This ensures even cooking and tender, flavorful results that are just as scrumptious as if made fresh!
Vietnamese Pork Chops Variations
There’s no limit to how you can make this dish your own! Let your creativity shine while enjoying the irresistible flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.
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Spicy Twist: Add chili paste to the marinade for a fiery kick that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s an exciting way to turn up the heat!
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Chicken Alternative: Swap the pork for bone-in or boneless chicken thighs. They absorb the flavors beautifully while remaining juicy and tender.
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Herb-Infused: Top your grilled pork chops with fresh herbs like Thai basil or cilantro for a burst of brightness. Their aroma is sure to elevate your dish.
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Sweet Replacement: For a different flavor profile, replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup. This will add a unique sweetness that compliments the savory marinade.
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Citrus Zing: Modify the marinade with lime or orange juice for a refreshing twist. The citrus will add a lively, zesty flavor that enhances the pork splendidly.
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Vegetable Medley: Add sliced bell peppers and onions to the grill alongside the pork for a colorful and tasty side. They soak up the marinades and add a delightful crunch!
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Soy Sauce Free: For a gluten-free version, replace both soy sauces with tamari or coconut aminos. You won’t sacrifice flavor while accommodating dietary needs.
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Sesame Kick: Use toasted sesame oil instead of regular oil for marinating and cooking. It adds an aromatic depth and richness that’s simply delightful.
Expert Tips for Grilled Vietnamese Pork Chops
• Marinade Time: Longer is better: For maximum flavor, marinate the pork for at least 12 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors of the Vietnamese pork chops to fully penetrate the meat.
• Room Temperature: Avoid cold chops: Let your marinated pork sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking and a juicy texture.
• Don’t Overcook: Check temperature: Always monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; removing the pork at 140°F-145°F prevents dryness and maintains juiciness.
• Cleanup: Discard responsibly: Remember to toss any leftover marinade after marinating the pork to avoid contamination and food safety issues.
• Herbs & Garnishes: Fresh flavors: Consider topping your pork chops with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil after grilling for an extra burst of freshness!
What to Serve with Vietnamese Pork Chops?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the luscious flavors of your grilled pork chops.
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Steamed Broken Rice: This traditional side absorbs the savory marinade and balances the dish with its fluffy texture. It’s a must-have for soaking up those delicious juices!
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Pickled Carrots and Daikon: The sweet and tangy crunch of pickled veggies adds a refreshing contrast to the savory pork, cleansing your palate between bites.
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Fresh Vegetable Salad: A vibrant mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette brings a freshness that lightens the meal and enhances every forkful.
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Thai Basil: This fragrant herb offers unique peppery notes that elevate the umami flavors of the pork. Sprinkle it on just before serving for a burst of freshness!
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Garlic Butter Noodles: Silky noodles tossed in garlic butter provide a comforting, hearty side, creating a delightful textural contrast to the tender pork.
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Vietnamese Iced Coffee: Round off your meal with the robust flavor of coffee brewed with sweetened condensed milk. It adds a kick that pairs perfectly with the savory elements of the dish.
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Coconut Sorbet: For dessert, a scoop of creamy coconut sorbet provides a tropical sweetness that refreshes your palate and offers a delightful finale to your meal.
How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Pork Chops
Fridge: Store leftover Vietnamese pork chops in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you wish to save them longer, wrap the pork chops tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chops in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Marinade Tip: If you have leftover marinade, do not save it; always discard it after marinating to ensure food safety.
Vietnamese Pork Chops (Sườn Nướng) Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my pork is ripe for marinating?
Absolutely! Fresh pork should be pink with a firm texture. Look for cuts without dark spots or an unusual odor. If you see any dark spots or the meat feels mushy, it’s best to choose another cut.
What’s the best way to store leftovers from the Vietnamese Pork Chops?
After dinner, place leftover pork chops in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For optimal freshness, be sure to let them cool to room temperature before sealing them up.
Can I freeze the grilled pork chops? If so, how?
Very! To freeze the Vietnamese Pork Chops, wrap each chop tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2-3 months. When it’s time to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if the pork chops come out too dry?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If the pork ends up dry, next time, remember to monitor the internal temperature closely, and try removing the chops at around 140°F. Also, let the pork rest covered with foil for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture!
Are there any allergies I should be aware of when serving Vietnamese Pork Chops?
Yes, take note that this recipe contains fish sauce and soy sauce, which can trigger allergies in some individuals. If you’re preparing this meal for someone with soy allergies, feel free to substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos. For those who are pescatarian, switching fish sauce with a vegan substitute is always a good option.
How long should I marinate the pork for the best flavor?
For the fullest flavor infusion, I recommend marinating the pork chops for at least 12 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the marinade to deeply penetrate, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that’s truly delightful!
Savory Vietnamese Pork Chops Sườn Nướng for Easy Grilling
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, shallots, garlic, brown sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and black pepper to create a fragrant marinade.
- Rinse the pork loin chops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make small slits in the fat for even cooking.
- Place the pork chops into a large Ziploc bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chops and massage to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly grease it. Let the marinated pork chops sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Grill the pork chops for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 140°F-145°F.
- Remove from the grill and cover loosely with foil. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.