Sài Gòn Serenity

Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with our Sài Gòn Serenity recipe, a harmonious blend of fresh herbs, savory proteins, and aromatic spices, inspired by the bustling streets of Saigon. Rooted in a rich culinary tradition, this dish marries the French and Chinese influences prevalent in Vietnamese cuisine, encapsulating the essence of Southeast Asian gastronomy.

Background

Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a melting pot of cultures and flavors. Historically a key trading port, it has embraced a diverse fusion of culinary techniques and ingredients from around the world. Our Sài Gòn Serenity is a modern take on traditional Vietnamese street food, combining fresh herbs with succulent shrimp, tender pork, and crispy vegetables to create a refreshing, yet satisfying culinary experience.

Ingredients

• Shrimp - 300g, fresh or frozen
• Pork loin - 200g, thinly sliced
• Rice noodles - 200g, vermicelli
• Lettuce - 1 large head, shredded
• Carrot - 1 large, julienned
• Cucumber - 1, thinly sliced
• Mint leaves - 1/2 cup, fresh
• Cilantro - 1/2 cup, fresh
• Thai basil - 1/2 cup, fresh
• Peanuts - 1/4 cup, roasted and crushed
• Fish sauce - 3 tablespoons
• Lime juice - 2 tablespoons, fresh
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Chili garlic sauce - 1 teaspoon
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Vegetable oil - 2 tablespoons

Preparation

Marinating the Meat

Begin by marinating the pork and shrimp to infuse them with flavor. In a medium bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and garlic. Add the sliced pork and shrimp, stirring to ensure they are well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.

Preparing the Rice Noodles

Submerge the rice noodles in a pot of hot water. Let them soak for 6-8 minutes until they become soft and pliable. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop further cooking. Set aside.

Making the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining fish sauce, lime juice, and chili garlic sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more lime or sugar if necessary, to balance the salty and sweet elements of the dressing.

Cooking Process

Sautéing the Pork and Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated pork, cooking until it turns brown and slightly caramelized, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the pork and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque.

Assembling the Dish

Place a bed of lettuce in each serving bowl. Follow with a generous layer of rice noodles. Arrange the sautéed pork and shrimp on top. Garnish with carrot, cucumber, and fresh herbs—mint, cilantro, and Thai basil. Sprinkle over the crushed peanuts.

How to Enjoy

Drizzle the prepared dressing over the assembled dish just before serving. For an authentic experience, serve with additional chili garlic sauce on the side. Embrace the communal aspect of Vietnamese meals by sharing with friends and family. Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or jasmine tea for a refreshing complement. Consider setting an additional cooking timer if you plan to make extra servings for guests, ensuring everything remains perfectly fresh.

Immerse yourself in the aromatic journey of Sài Gòn Serenity and let the intricate layers of flavor transport you to the vibrant streets of Vietnam. Savor each bite and relish in the serenity this dish brings.