How to Make Cơm Sườn Nướng (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Cơm Sườn Nướng is a beloved Vietnamese dish featuring fragrant rice topped with grilled pork chops, often garnished with fresh herbs and crisp vegetables. Originating from Southern Vietnam, particularly Ho Chi Minh City, this dish is a quintessential street food, enjoyed by locals for its harmonious balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. The pork is marinated with classic Vietnamese ingredients like fish sauce, garlic, and lemongrass, delivering an irresistible aroma and depth of taste. Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its focus on fresh ingredients and balanced nutrition, making Cơm Sườn Nướng a great choice for health-conscious food lovers. The rice provides a gentle base, while the grilled pork adds protein. Served with pickled vegetables and a tangy dipping sauce, this meal is both satisfying and refreshing. Its vibrant presentation and diverse textures make it a staple in Vietnamese households and a favorite at casual gatherings, perfectly capturing the essence of Vietnam’s culinary culture.
Ingredients
- 2 pieces (about 150g each) Boneless pork chops (Sườn)
- 1 cup (uncooked) Jasmine rice (Cơm)
- 2 tablespoons Fish sauce (Nước mắm)
- 1 tablespoon Soy sauce (optional for less salt)
- 1 tablespoon Honey (for natural sweetness)
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 stalk, finely chopped Lemongrass (Sả)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1/2, sliced Cucumber (Dưa leo)
- 1 small, julienned Carrot (Cà rốt)
- 2 sprigs Fresh cilantro (Ngò)
- 1 teaspoon Vegetable oil (for grilling)
- 1 small, sliced Chili (optional for dipping sauce)
- 1 tablespoon Lime juice (for dipping sauce)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until clear
Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until clear. Cook rice in a pot or rice cooker according to package instructions.
Step 2 · Prepare marinade by combining fish sauce
Prepare marinade by combining fish sauce, honey, minced garlic, chopped lemongrass, black pepper, and soy sauce (if using).
Step 3 · Massage marinade into pork chops
Massage marinade into pork chops, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature.
Step 4 · Heat vegetable oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat
Heat vegetable oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill pork chops for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Step 5 · Slice cucumber and julienne carrot
Slice cucumber and julienne carrot. Arrange alongside rice and pork chops on each plate.
Step 6 · Mix lime juice
Mix lime juice, fish sauce, chili, and a dash of water to create a light dipping sauce.
Step 7 · Garnish with fresh cilantro
Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve rice topped with grilled pork, vegetables, and dipping sauce.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Vietnamese grilled pork rice dish is healthy because it uses lean cuts of pork, moderate portions of rice, and plenty of fresh vegetables. The grilling method reduces excess fat compared to frying, and the marinade is free from artificial additives. The inclusion of a tangy, low-calorie dipping sauce boosts flavor without unnecessary calories. It’s a wholesome meal suitable for balanced diets, supporting weight management and overall wellness.
A note on tradition
Cơm Sườn Nướng is a staple in Southern Vietnam, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City, where it's commonly served at street food stalls and casual eateries. The dish reflects the region's preference for grilled meats and rice plates, often enjoyed for breakfast or lunch. It’s a popular choice among office workers and families, appreciated for its convenience, taste, and nutritional balance. Occasionally, it’s served during informal gatherings and special family occasions.