The vibrant aroma of lemongrass and garlic wafts through my kitchen as I prepare to grill these Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops. There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming simple ingredients into a dish that feels like a culinary adventure. Just picture that first bite—tender pork infused with zesty flavors that transport you straight to a bustling street market in Hanoi.
After a particularly long week of takeout, I craved something special yet uncomplicated. That’s when this recipe caught my eye, promising a burst of bold flavors with minimal hassle. Imagine marinating succulent pork shoulder steaks in a fragrant mix of lemongrass, fish sauce, and garlic for a full day. All you need is a hot grill, a few minutes, and voilà—you have a meal that delights the senses and impresses guests without the stress.
Serve these chops alongside a refreshing dip and crisp veggies, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both cozy family dinners and lively gatherings. Let’s dive into this deliciously exotic recipe!
Why are Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: The aromatic blend of lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce creates a uniquely bold taste that transports you straight to Vietnam.
Effortless Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time and an overnight marination, this recipe effortlessly fits into your weeknight rotation.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Serve these mouthwatering pork chops at your next gathering, and watch them disappear from the table in no time!
Versatile Pairing: They’re perfect with rice, fresh veggies, or even in a banh mi for a delightful twist.
Impressive Results: You’ll wow family and friends with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet without the fuss.
Essential Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops Ingredients
For the Pork
• Pork shoulder steaks – These juicy cuts are perfect for absorbing flavors and grilling beautifully.
• Oil – A light coat helps achieve a delicious char while grilling.
For the Marinade
• Lemongrass – Freshly minced hint adds a zesty flavor that screams of Vietnam.
• Garlic – Adds depth and an aromatic kick to the marinade.
• Shallot – A sweet onion flavor that balances the dish perfectly.
• Fish Sauce – An essential ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine, bringing umami and saltiness.
• Dark Soy Sauce – Enhances color and adds richness to the marinade.
• Sugar – Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
• Water – Helps to blend the marinade ingredients to a paste.
For Serving
• Nuoc cham dip – This essential fish sauce dip adds a delightful tang with each bite.
• Cucumbers – A refreshing crunch that complements the rich pork flavors.
• Tomatoes – Juicy slices that lend a burst of freshness to your plate.
• Green onions/scallions – Adds a finishing touch with their mild spiciness and color.
How to Make Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops
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Prepare the Lemongrass: Remove the dried tips from the lemongrass, smash the base to release the oils, and cut it into ¼-inch pieces. This will make the flavors pop in your marinade!
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Blend the Marinade: Add the lemongrass, garlic, shallot, dark soy sauce, water, fish sauce, and sugar into a food processor. Blitz until you achieve a smooth paste—this aromatic mixture is the heart of your dish.
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Marinate the Pork: Place the pork shoulder steaks in a large bowl and pour the lemongrass marinade over them. Ensure each piece is well coated—this step is crucial! Cover and marinate for 24 hours in the fridge.
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Bring to Room Temperature: After marinating, take the pork out of the fridge and let it sit for about an hour. This helps the meat cook evenly and remain juicy.
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Remove Excess Marinade: Scrape off as much marinade from the pork as you can to prevent burning on the grill. You want that beautiful char without the extra sauce causing flare-ups!
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Oil the Pork Chops: Drizzle oil over each chop and lightly coat them. This will give the pork a gorgeous sear and flavor when grilling.
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Preheat the BBQ: Heat your grill to high. Preheating is important for getting that perfect grill mark and keeping your pork chops juicy.
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Grill the Chops: Place the pork chops on the grill for 2-3 minutes with the lid up (about 1-2 minutes per side). Then reduce the heat to medium and cover, cooking for an additional 4-6 minutes without flipping.
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Rest the Chops: Once grilled, remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite heavenly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Plate these flavorful chops with rice, fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and nuoc cham dip. It’s a vibrant feast ready to enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops Variations
Let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this delicious recipe to suit your family’s taste!
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Dairy-Free: Swap regular sauces for coconut aminos and a splash of lime to keep the flavor without the dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the marinade for those who crave a little heat. A gentle warmth enhances the rich flavors!
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Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh cilantro or mint in the marinade to elevate the flavor profile. The fresh herbs add layers of complexity and freshness.
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Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and fish sauce to keep the dish heart-healthy without sacrificing taste. Your taste buds will hardly notice the difference!
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Pork Alternative: Substitute chicken thighs or tofu for an equally flavorful dish. Both options soak up the marinade creatively!
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Citrus Infusion: Mix in zest and juice from a lime or orange for a zesty brightness to the marinade. A little citrus tang transforms the entire dish!
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Caramelized Twist: Before grilling, sprinkle a small amount of brown sugar onto the pork for a sweet crust when it caramelizes. This layer of flavor elevates every bite.
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Veggie Grill: Add some marinated bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to the grill for a deliciously colorful side that complements your pork chops beautifully.
These variations not only keep your meals exciting, but they also make this recipe adaptable to everyone’s preferences. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Expert Tips for Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops
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Marinate Time: Ensure you marinate the pork for a full 24 hours for maximum flavor. Skipping this can lead to less tasty chops.
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Temperature Matters: Bring the pork to room temperature before grilling. This ensures even cooking and prevents dryness while grilling.
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Scrape Off Marinade: Always scrape off excess marinade before grilling. Too much can cause flare-ups and burnt exterior without cooking through.
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Oil Lightly: Drizzling a bit of oil on the pork helps achieve that enviable char and prevents sticking on the grill.
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Rest for Juiciness: Don’t skip the resting time post-grilling! Letting the pork rest allows juices to redistribute, delivering a juicier bite.
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Presentation Counts: Serve with additional fresh veggies, like cucumbers and tomatoes, to not only brighten the plate but enhance flavor for your Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops.
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinade and coat the pork shoulder steaks up to 24 hours in advance, letting the flavors develop overnight, which will intensify the taste. Simply blend the lemongrass, garlic, shallot, dark soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar as directed, then marinate your pork. To maintain quality, be sure to refrigerate the marinated pork in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, take it out about an hour beforehand to reach room temperature, then scrape off any excess marinade before grilling—quick, easy, and just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops
Fridge: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain moisture.
Freezer: You can freeze marinated pork chops for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag for best results.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy leftovers in salads or as part of a delicious banh mi sandwich for a delightful twist on your original Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops.
What to Serve with Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops?
Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the exquisite flavors of the pork.
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Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice absorbs the marinades, creating a wonderful balance and making each bite memorable.
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Crisp Cucumber Salad: Tossed in a light vinaigrette, this refreshing salad offers a crunch that cuts through the richness of the pork.
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Tomato and Avocado Salad: The creaminess of avocado paired with juicy tomatoes adds freshness, making this a colorful and bright addition to your plate.
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Nuoc Cham Dip: Essential for dipping, this fish sauce dip amplifies the pork’s flavors with a zesty twist that’s addictive!
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Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred bell peppers and zucchini bring a smoky texture and lovely color, enhancing the meal’s aesthetic and taste.
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Chilled Beer or Iced Green Tea: A cold drink like a light beer or refreshing iced green tea will elevate your meal, balancing the savory notes wonderfully.
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Banana Spring Rolls: For a sweet finish, these crispy rolls filled with banana and drizzled with honey provide a delightful end to your culinary journey.
Choose any combination of these sides, and embark on a flavorful adventure that echoes the spirit of Vietnam with each satisfying bite!
Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops Recipe FAQs
What kind of pork should I use for Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Pork shoulder steaks are recommended for this recipe as they are juicy and provide excellent flavor. You want cuts that are about ½-¾ inch thick, which allows for marination while still grilling nicely and remaining tender.
How should I store leftovers of Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops?
You can store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to lock in moisture and maintain their tenderness.
Can I freeze the marinated pork?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap the marinated pork chops tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
What if my pork chops are tough after grilling?
If your pork chops turn out tough, this could be due to overcooking. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—a temperature of 145°F is perfect. Additionally, letting the chops rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling is crucial, so the juices can redistribute.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! The marinade contains fish sauce, which isn’t suitable for vegetarians and may be an allergen for those sensitive to seafood. For a vegetarian version, you can use marinated tofu or portobello mushrooms as a substitute for the pork. If you have specific dietary restrictions, do check the fish sauce brand or opt for a low-sodium version.
What tips do you have for achieving the best flavor?
For maximum flavor, ensure you marinate your pork for a full 24 hours. Skipping this step will sacrifice the taste. Also, scrape off the excess marinade prior to grilling to prevent burning but keep the essential flavor. Lastly, don’t forget to rest the pork after grilling for a juicier finish—trust me, it makes all the difference!
Savor Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Chops Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the lemongrass: Remove the dried tips, smash the base, and cut into ¼-inch pieces.
- Blend the marinade by mixing lemongrass, garlic, shallot, dark soy sauce, water, fish sauce, and sugar in a food processor until smooth.
- Marinate the pork by coating the shoulder steaks with the marinade and refrigerating them for 24 hours.
- Bring marinated pork to room temperature before grilling.
- Remove excess marinade from pork to avoid burning.
- Oil the pork chops lightly before grilling.
- Preheat the grill to high.
- Grill the chops for 2-3 minutes per side, then reduce the heat and cover, cooking for another 4-6 minutes.
- Rest the chops for 5-10 minutes after grilling.
- Serve the chops with rice, cucumbers, tomatoes, and nuoc cham dip.