This Vietnamese Meatball Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that beautifully combines savory and spicy flavors, making it a perfect choice for a light meal or a quick lunch. It features tender, grilled meatballs made from ground pork or beef, served on a bed of rice noodles and topped with fresh herbs and vegetables. This dish not only satisfies the palate but also offers a glimpse into the rich street food culture of Vietnam, where fresh, aromatic ingredients play a pivotal role.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 pound ground pork (or beef)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped green onions
1 tablespoon cornstarch
8 ounces rice noodles
1 cup red cabbage, shredded
1 cup carrots, julienned
1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed (optional)
3 tablespoons fish sauce (for dressing)
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon sugar (for dressing)
1-2 fresh chilies, finely chopped (optional for spice)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, minced garlic, fish sauce, sugar, black pepper, green onions, and cornstarch. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Yield around 20 meatballs.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the meatballs for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
While the meatballs are grilling, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 4-6 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, sliced cucumber, mint, and cilantro. Toss lightly to mix.
In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chopped chilies until the sugar is dissolved.
In a large serving bowl, layer the cooked rice noodles, followed by the fresh vegetable mixture. Top with grilled meatballs and drizzle the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine.
Sprinkle roasted peanuts on top, if using, for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately.
