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Bun Cha (Vietnamese Meatballs!)

Irresistible Bun Cha (Vietnamese Meatballs) in 30 Minutes

Enjoy a bowl of Bun Cha, vibrant Vietnamese meatballs with vermicelli, fresh herbs, and zesty Nuoc Cham sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 500 grams Pork Mince Can substitute with chicken or turkey
  • 3 tablespoons Fish Sauce Use soy sauce for vegetarian option
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Adjust to taste
  • 3 stalks Green Onions/Scallions Can substitute with chives or shallots
  • 3 cloves Garlic Garlic powder can replace if needed
  • 1 teaspoon White Pepper Adjust according to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Keep fish sauce in mind for saltiness
  • 1 stalk Lemongrass Optional, can substitute with fresh ginger
  • 2 tablespoons Oil Use a neutral oil
For the Noodles and Toppings
  • 200 grams Vermicelli Noodles Soak in boiling water as per package instructions
  • 100 grams Bean Sprouts
  • 1 cup Lettuce Chopped
  • 1 medium Carrot Julienned
  • 1 medium Radish Julienned
  • 1 bunch Coriander
  • 1 bunch Mint

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • pot
  • whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, sugar, rice wine vinegar, lime juice, minced garlic, and chili. Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Cook Noodles: Boil water in a pot and pour it over the vermicelli noodles in a bowl. Soak for 5-7 minutes, then drain.
  3. Make Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine pork mince, fish sauce, sugar, chopped green onions, minced garlic, white pepper, and optional lemongrass. Shape into small patties.
  4. Cook Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Add meatballs and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  5. Assemble Bowls: Place vermicelli noodles in bowls, top with bean sprouts, lettuce, pickled vegetables, meatballs, and drizzle with Nuoc Cham sauce.

Notes

Tips for better texture and flavor - avoid overcrowding the skillet and allow the sauce to rest for maximum flavors.