Cơm Tấm Bì

Name: Cơm Tấm Bì
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Vietnamese

Cơm • Việt Nam

160

kcal

Protein

24g

Carbs

Fat

Data source: VietCalorie

Log This Food

Track with App

Log this food instantly with our mobile app

Get App

Về Cơm Tấm Bì

Broken rice with shredded pork skin — lighter version of cơm tấm

How to Make Cơm Tấm Bì (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Prep: 15 min

Cook: 20 min

2 servings

Medium

Cơm Tấm Bì is a beloved Vietnamese broken rice dish that captures the vibrant flavors and textures of southern Vietnam, especially Saigon. Traditionally served as a hearty breakfast or lunch, this dish features fragrant steamed broken rice (cơm tấm), shredded pork skin (bì), savory grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and a signature nuoc cham dipping sauce. The combination of tender meat, crisp pork skin, and nutty rice grains offers a unique culinary experience that reflects Vietnam's creativity in making the most of humble ingredients. Cơm Tấm Bì is more than just a meal—it's a cultural icon, often enjoyed in bustling street-side eateries and family gatherings. Its origins date back to times when broken rice grains, once considered inferior, were repurposed by resourceful cooks into a flavorful staple. Today, its irresistible taste and satisfying balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fresh greens make it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. Choosing a healthier version with lean pork and ample vegetables ensures you enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine without excess calories, making it ideal for those tracking their nutrition.

Diabetic-Friendly Weight Loss Kid-Friendly Vegan Adaptable

Allergens: fish sauce

Ingredients(for 1 plate (approx. 350g), typical for a Vietnamese meal)

1 cup Broken rice (cơm tấm) (Rinsed and drained)
150g Lean pork loin (Thinly sliced)
50g Pork skin (bì) (Parboiled and shredded)
1 tablespoon Roasted rice powder (Thính gạo)
1 small Carrot (Julienned for pickling)
1 small Daikon radish (Julienned for pickling)
1/2 medium Cucumber (Sliced for garnish)
2 tablespoons Fish sauce (For nuoc cham)
1 tablespoon Lime juice (Freshly squeezed)
1 clove Garlic (Minced)
1 small Chili (Finely chopped, optional for heat) - optional
1 teaspoon Sugar (For pickling and sauce)
2 tablespoons Fresh herbs (cilantro, scallion) (Chopped for garnish) - optional

Instructions

1
Rinse broken rice under cold water, then steam or cook in a rice cooker with 1.25 cups water until fluffy.
15 minutes
Let the cooked rice rest for 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
2
Marinate pork loin with 1 teaspoon fish sauce, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, minced garlic, and a pinch of pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat until cooked through.
8 minutes
Use a grill pan for authentic smoky flavor.
3
For bì (pork skin), mix shredded pork skin with roasted rice powder and a pinch of salt. Toss gently to coat.
2 minutes
Chill pork skin before shredding for easier handling.
4
Prepare quick pickled carrots and daikon: toss with 1 teaspoon sugar, a pinch of salt, and 2 teaspoons vinegar. Let sit for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Squeeze out excess liquid before serving for crisp texture.

Why This Dish is Healthy

Choosing lean cuts of pork and adding plenty of vegetables keeps this Cơm Tấm Bì recipe lower in calories and higher in nutrients. Broken rice has a low glycemic index compared to regular white rice, and the inclusion of pickled and fresh vegetables supports digestion and gut health. This balanced meal provides lasting energy and can fit into most calorie-controlled diets.

This healthy Cơm Tấm Bì recipe is rich in lean protein from pork loin and pork skin, complex carbohydrates from broken rice, and dietary fiber from fresh vegetables and pickles. The addition of herbs and nuoc cham sauce provides antioxidants, vitamin C, and essential minerals. The dish is naturally low in saturated fat and can be adjusted to reduce sodium and sugar for those watching their intake.

Pro Tips

💡Tip 1: Use day-old cooked rice for a firmer texture.
💡Tip 2: Lightly toast rice powder for a deeper nutty aroma.
💡Tip 3: Marinate pork for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor.

Storage & Serving

Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat rice and pork before serving. Keep pickled vegetables chilled and add fresh herbs just before eating.

Best served: Breakfast or Lunch